Mindfulness is becoming a bigger trend these days with the stress of the world bearing down on everyone. Some days you just need a break, a moment to unwind, a moment to yourself. And, since you’re rarely without your phone, here are a few apps that can help you practice mindfulness. 

Stop, Breathe, & Think: This app slowly brings you into the mindfulness world, starting off with an introduction on what mindfulness means as well as the neuroscience behind it. 

What’s nice is that every time you open the app, it will ask you how you’re doing and let you rate how you feel, both physically and mentally. Then, it will give you recommended exercises or activities based on how you feel. These activities include meditation sessions and acupressure techniques among other things. The more you use the app, the more data it collects and tracks. 

All the activities are relatively short, so they are perfect for cramming into your busy schedule. This app is free, with a paid option as well that offers more features. It is available on Apple and Android devices. 

Headspace: Headspace is another app to help with mindfulness. While the app is usually one that you have to pay for, they are offering a two week free trial that you can sign up for. They also have content designed for mental health struggles caused by the coronavirus pandemic. 

Smiling Mind: Created by a non-profit (also called Smiling Mind), the Smiling Mind app offers many different programs focusing on specific aspects of mindfulness including improving your sleep, dealing with stress in the workplace and working on your relationships. 

There is also a special program that can be used in a classroom setting. The meditation activities are fairly short, around five to ten minutes and thus are easy to do when you need a break from your hectic schedule. This app and its programs are free. 

It is important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Especially now with everything going on, it is becoming increasingly easier said than done to practice self-care. However, taking a bit of time out of your day to calm down and recenter yourself can help you reset your day and lead you on the path to success.