Whether you prefer yoga, meditation, journaling or all of the above, self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about finding what works best for you. Self-care apps can help bring your mind and body into balance. So, the next time you feel a wave of anxiety or the weight of stress, you’re one click away from a calmer state of mind. Like having a therapist in your back pocket, literally. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 self-care apps and how they can support you on your healing journey:
Best self-care apps
Headspace
Enjoy morning meditation? The way you wake up sets the tone for the rest of the day, so choose to make it positive! Headspace contains a library of over 500 meditations covering a variety of areas: stress, anxiety, self-compassion, and more. There are also workouts to help you relieve tension, yoga exercises and music recommendations to relax your mind and body. (iOS, Android, free with in-app purchases).
Happify
Nothing is worse than feeling like a victim of your thoughts and feelings. In those moments, happiness seems impossible. But as it turns out, there is a science to happiness and by understanding how it works, you can experience it every day. Using the latest research on positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness, the tools and programs on Happify are designed to help you take back control of how you think and feel. Developed by scientists and mental health experts, the exercises are proven to improve your overall well-being. (iOS,Android, free with in-app purchases).
The Silk + Sonder App
The Silk + Sonder mobile app helps you take self-care to an entirely new level. The app offers daily affirmations and exercises to inspire and empower you, wellness trackers and milestones so you can measure your progress and a feature that allows you to save memories! So, when you want to look back on your self-care journey you can take a trip down memory lane. Also, it’s a members-only community so you can develop closer relationships and have a more intimate experience. (iOS, Android, free).
Shine
Named “Best of 2020” by Apple, Shine provides daily self-care skills customized to meet your needs. If you sign up for the free version, you receive a daily meditation, article and option to log your gratitude. The premium membership offers a new “shine” each day, access to a library of 1,000+ meditations, personalized meditations, mood tracker, members-only events and an exclusive community to connect with. (iOS, Android, free with in-app purchases).
Five Minute Journal
This app is for those who say “I’m too busy” or “I don’t have time.” As the name suggests, the Five-Minute Journal only takes five minutes of self-reflection to reap the benefits. One of the best features is a timeline that allows you to see all of your previous journal entries so you can see how far you’ve come. The app also includes inspirational quotes and a photo tool that allows you to document all of your happy moments along the way. (iOS, Android, free).
MoodKit
MoodKit takes principles of professional psychology (specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy) and shows you how to integrate them into your daily life. The features include a mood tracker, thought checker, mood-boosting activities, and a journal to help you manage how you think and feel. All of these tools are designed to help you gain greater self-awareness and cultivate a more positive and peaceful state of mind. (iOS, Android, $4.99)
Talkspace
For many people, therapy is an essential part of their self-care routine. If you are seeking additional support from a mental health professional, Talkspace is an excellent option. After a quick assessment, this online counseling platform matches you with the right counselor and you have 24/7 access to your counseling “room.” So, anytime you need to chat or want to leave a message, you have that option. (iOS, Android, price varies based on insurance coverage).
Calm
Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, have a better night’s sleep, or boost focus, Calm is on a mission is to make you happier and healthier. The app shows you how to meditate, learn mindful movement, and offers music to help you relax and recenter. Calm also has Masterclass, so you’ll have expert insights and guidance at your fingertips. (iOS, Android, free with in-app purchases).
Chopra Meditation & Well-Being
This app is an excellent resource for meditation and mindfulness, with an extensive library of meditations to choose from, monthly programs and personalized tracking to transform your health and well-being. Chopra Meditation & Well-Being teaches you the basic principles of meditation, how to find inner peace during times of stress and anxiety and guiding you on your journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re into focused meditation, spiritual meditation, or basic mindfulness meditation, there’s something for everyone. (iOS, Android coming soon, free with in-app purchases).
Offtime
A big source of stress for many of us is feeling connected to our devices. If you’re looking to disconnect and better manage your technology usage, Offtime is a useful tool. To make mindfulness a practice, this app shows you smartphone usage, filters communication, and helps you stick to your screen time goals. (iOS, Android, .99 cents with extra in-app purchases available). Next, read about these 25 self-care subscription boxes to nourish your body and mind.
