Meditation and mindfulness apps

There are a variety of mobile phone apps for breathing, meditation and mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of each moment of your day as it happens. Becoming more mindful helps reduce tension, stress and anxiety. It also helps you notice what supports your wellbeing. Here are some apps to get you started.

App		Features	Clinical review
Āio		Meditation app based on Māori teachings Free version of the app comprises six basic videos Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Free basic; paid subscription upgrade for more videos Read more about Āio
Headspace		Guided meditation Meditation reminders Meditation tracking Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Free trial; paid subscription for full content Read more about Headspace
Melon		Tracks sleep, activity, feelings Wellbeing articles and videos Shared community and personal coach Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Free trial Read more about Melon
Smiling Mind		Guided meditation and mindfulness Meditation reminders Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Free Read more about Smiling Mind
Virtual Hope Box		Games Meditation exercises Activities to reduce stress Motivational quotes  Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Free Read more about Virtual Hope Box
Buddhify		Mindfulness audio Can share mindfulness audios with others using social media, messaging, text or email Available from Google Play and iTunes Cost: Basic: $6.49, paid upgrade: $30 per annum for subscription Read more about Buddhify

Learn more

As there are so many apps to support mental health and wellbeing, we have not been able to review all those available. We have instead identified independent organisations that have reviewed these apps.

• ReachOut.com (Australia) helps young people get through anything from everyday issues to tough time. 
• PsyberGuide (United States) helps people make responsible and informed decisions about apps and other digital tools for mental health.
• Mind in Brighton and Hove (United Kingdom) promotes good mental health.

You may also find the following article useful: Do mental health apps really work? Patient Info, UK

Disclaimer: Health Navigator’s app library is a free consumer service to help you decide whether a health app would be suitable for you. Our review process is independent. We have no relationship with the app developers or companies and no responsibility for the service they provide. This means that if you have an issue with one of the apps we have reviewed, you will need to contact the app developer or company directly.

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