Best mindfulness apps

We’ve all heard about the benefits of mindfulness and being present, but is it something that can be achieved via support from an app on our phones? 

At Cadence, we’re all about finding ways to enhancing our lives, so we’ve investigated the most popular mindfulness apps available for download

Firstly, what is mindfulness? Mindfulness is about clearing your thoughts and becoming acutely aware of yourself and your surroundings. If it’s your first foray into mindfulness, an app might be the most accessible way to explore guided meditation.

1.      Aura

Created by some of the most sought-after meditation teachers and therapists, and personalised by AI, Aura’s known for its daily micro-meditations. Each meditation is only three minutes, making it the perfect introduction to mindfulness, particularly for those with limited time. In addition to helping users relieve stress and anxiety, Aura also encourages people to keep a gratitude journal, track moods throughout the day, and listen to the soothing sounds of nature. Those with a competitive edge will appreciate the built-in games, which allow you to level up as you learn more about mindfulness and take part in daily challenges.

2.      Calm

Millions of users agree that this app brings a sense of calm, mindfulness, clarity and joy to their lives. Consistently rated as one of the top mindfulness apps, Calm is globally known for positively changing lives. Upon opening the app, you’ll be greeted with a relaxing sound of your choosing, the sound of falling rain, a crackling fireplace or even “celestial white noise”. If you’re after short meditations that you can apply during a busy day, Calm is worth looking into. It’s also good at focusing your efforts on specific problems with things programmes such as ‘7 Days of Managing Stress’ and ‘Mindful Eating’ and has beginner settings for meditation novices.

3.      Buddhify

Unlike other apps, you pay for Buddhify upfront instead of enjoying a free trial initially. This slick app is user-friendly with its ‘wheel’ — a colourful disc divided into segments. Each segment represents a mindfulness and meditation exercise (mainly short spoken sessions designed for those on the go) to try out. You can personalise your wheel to keep your favourite meditations in one place. Exercises are categorised and themed so you’re guided throughout your day. There’s a bit more handholding with Buddhify than with other apps, but it’s a great place to begin if you’re new to meditation and mindfulness or simply require more motivation/accountability.

4.      Headspace

You really can’t top Headspace for its clear and concise introduction to mindfulness. With a friendly voiceover, the app does an excellent job of explaining techniques and offering helpful hints along the way. The animations are equally amazing, enhancing the design of the app. The free version is quite comprehensive, but those who opt for a subscription will grow alongside the app (ideal for those who have been practicing a bit longer). Headspace is our pick for the best overall mindfulness app regardless of what stage you’re at, it’s never condescending and always approachable.

5.      Cadence Total Body Conditioning (member-only app)

I couldn’t prepare a top five without including our own development within the Cadence app, to which members have access. For those not ready to commit to meditation and would rather concentrate on the self-development side of being mindful, we’ve developed a stream of content written by ‘the gurus’ on nutrition, stress management, sleep and much more that you can use to educate your journey. In the app, you can tick off to mark what you have read, and it adds it to your weekly progress tracker.  As for an introduction to meditation, in studio, Cadence is starting dedicated meditation sessions – lights down low, warm studio and structured meditation. Stayed tuned! Our Pure Yoga sessions will also have a slot for breathing and meditation.

Cadence is powered by Nomergy Wellness Technology.