Apps are very much a part of our daily routine; we use apps to give us directions, check our bank accounts, listen to music, make purchasing decisions, and to even track our monthly moods and cycles. Apps can be amazing. Of course, we all know that reliance on technology can be a double-edged sword. While apps bring ultra-convenience to our lives, our commitment to phones can lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety. But this can be tempered with the choices you make, rather than endlessly scroll old acquaintances on social media, here are the best apps to help you unwind…

Calm

The Calm App has taken the world by storm and for good reason. This mindful little app is all about delivering daily calm sessions. As soon as you open the app, chirping birds or a babbling brook soundscape welcome you. Follow their breath bubble to help you regulate, get some guided mindful movement sessions, and even listen to calming tales as you fall into slumber, read by the likes of Matthew McConaughey for good measure.

Headspace

As the title suggests, headspace is something we could all use a little more of. The app offers a free take 10 program which invites you to carve out just ten minutes of your day for a dose of meditation. Mediation (even for ten minutes) can soothe the nervous system, calm the mind, grant perspective and help you focus. We suggest taking some time in the morning to set an intention for the day or returning to the app when you are feeling the weight of overwhelm.

Breathe2Relax

Despite the glitchy name, Breathe2Relax is a little different from other meditation apps in the fact that it focuses solely on the power of the breath. Diaphragm breathing is one of the most powerful tools we have in our box of tricks that can instantly melt away stress and help us to regain control of our emotions. This helpful little app guides you through the process with some breathing exercises, countdowns, and even offers you the chance to connect your music and health apps if you are logging on with Apple devices.

Yoga Studio

If you don’t have the time or the financial capacity to get yourself to yoga classes then this handy little app could be a lifesaver. With over 60 yoga and guided meditation-videos, not to mention helpful class scheduling features and a roster of yoga poses to practice, the Yoga Studio app makes perfecting your downward dog as easy as can be. Geared more towards beginners, you can even hook it up to your Apple TV or Chromecast so you don’t have to squint at your phone.

Adult Coloring

For all those who got caught in the highly beneficial craze of adult colouring, now you can do it on your phone. A great way to zone out and let yourself be immersed in a soothing task, this phone app invites you to tap and paint endless mandalas, blooming floras, peaceful landscapes and so much more.

10% Happier

Devised by Dan Harris, this no-nonsense flowery free app is for those sceptics in life who struggle to sit still and meditate in the traditional sense. There’s a fair few no-frills meditation videos that keep things simple and grounded, a refreshing approach to the idea of mindfulness that cuts out the airiness. And for those who want to go premium, you will get access to more than 350 guided meditations with all the above in mind. This app is for those who want to edge up the scale when it comes to personal peace, success, and happiness across their lives.

Which apps will you be downloading? Also, share your favourite big chill apps in the comments and let’s build a more soothing online world for all.