By: Jennifer McMillen Smith, MSSA, LISW-S, Division of Infectious Disease and medically reviewed by Ann Avery, Infectious Disease Physician at Metrohealth Medical Center
Feeling stressed or anxious? Maybe you just want to find a little peace and calm in your day? 🌞 Meditation can be a wonderful way to relax and center yourself, and you don't have to spend a dime to get started.
Let’s explore the best free meditation apps that can help you find your Zen without breaking the bank. Let's dive in! 🧘♂️
Why meditation?
First, what’s the deal with meditation? It’s not just about sitting down and doing nothing. 🥱 Meditation can help reduce stress, improve focus, and even boost your mood. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
See below for our picks of the best free meditation apps out there. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned meditator, there’s probably a good fit for you in the mix.
Our picks for the best free meditation apps
1. Insight Timer
Insight Timer is one of the best free meditation apps out there. It offers over 70,000 😲 free guided meditations. You can find meditations for sleep, stress, gratitude, and even more specific things like anxiety and depression. The app also features music tracks and talks from mindfulness experts around the world.
Its unique features include:
- 📚 Huge library: You’ll never run out of new meditations to try.
- 🫂 Community feel: Join groups and connect with other meditators.
- ⌛ Customizable timer: Create your own meditation sessions with various sounds and intervals.
2. Calm
Calm is another name that often comes up when you’re looking for the best free meditation apps. While it does offer a premium version, the free version still has plenty to offer. You can access a selection of guided meditations, sleep stories, and soothing nature sounds.
Some of Calm’s unique features are:
- 😴 Sleep stories: Drift off to sleep with calming tales narrated by soothing voices.
- 🧘 Daily calm: A new 10-minute meditation every day.
- 🫁 Breathing exercises: Perfect for quick relaxation.
3. Headspace
Headspace is a good option for beginners! It breaks down meditation into simple, easy-to-follow steps. The free version includes a Basics course that covers the essentials of meditation and mindfulness. Once you’ve mastered 🧑🏫 the basics, there are additional meditations for sleep, focus, and stress.
Headspace is unique because it’s...
- 😁 Beginner-friendly: Perfect if you’re new to meditation.
- 🤏 Short sessions: Great for fitting meditation into a busy schedule.
- 🧠 Mindfulness tips: Learn how to integrate mindfulness (basically being aware in the moment) into everyday life.
4. MyLife Meditation
MyLife Meditation (formerly Stop, Breathe & Think) is a unique app that tailors meditation recommendations based on how you’re feeling. You start by checking in with your emotions, and the app suggests meditations and activities that match your current state.
MyLife Meditation’s unique features include:
- 😣 Emotion check-in: Get meditation suggestions based on your mood.
- 🌶️ Variety: Meditations, yoga, acupressure, and more.
- 📅 Track your progress: See how your meditation practice evolves over time.
5. Smiling mind
Smiling Mind is a not-for-profit app that’s perfect for both kids and adults. It offers programs tailored to different age groups, making it a great option for families. The app focuses on mindfulness and stress reduction, with activities designed to fit into a busy lifestyle.
This one stands out because of:
- 👪 Age-specific programs: Meditations for children, teens, and adults.
- 🏫 School programs: Ideal for educators and students.
- 😁 Mental wellbeing: Focus on building resilience and emotional balance.
Other ways to practice good mental health
Alright, those are some of the best free meditation apps out there, but what if you want to just go it alone?
One great way is to spend time outside. 🏞️ Nature has a magical way of making us feel peaceful. Whether you go for a walk in the park, hike a trail, or just sit in your backyard, being outdoors can help clear your mind and lift your spirits. Plus, the fresh air and sunshine give you a boost of energy and happiness!
Another awesome way to stay calm is to get creative. 🎨 Doing something artsy like drawing, painting, or even coloring in a coloring book can help you relax and express your feelings. You don't have to be a great artist to enjoy the benefits of creativity. It's all about having fun and letting your imagination flow. Sometimes, just doodling or crafting can turn a stressful day into a joyful one!
Lastly, connecting with friends and family can do wonders for your mental health. 🤗 Talking to someone you trust about your feelings can be really comforting. Sharing laughs and good times with loved ones helps you feel supported and loved. You can also join clubs or groups that interest you, whether it's a sports team, a book club, or a hobby group. 🏏 Being part of a community gives you a sense of belonging and can make you feel happier and more relaxed.
Discover more with Positive Peers
If you’re looking for even more ways to improve your mental wellbeing, why not check out Positive Peers? Our own app offers a supportive community and resources to help you on your journey. Download Positive Peers today and join a community that cares. 🌈
Now go have fun trying out some new apps and stay on that journey to a happier, healthier you! 📲✨