My Mediation Journey Plus My Favorite Apps

(Morning meditation on our deck.)

Today I want to talk to you guys about something that has really changed my life for the better, meditation. Last January I was in a really bad mental place, so I started meditating daily. My goal was not only to lower stress level and take 10 minutes a day for myself (which were added benefits), but I really needed to figure out a way to be more in control of my thoughts. Now, 15 months later I literally feel like a different person! Some days I only meditate for 10 minutes, some days I end up doing it for more like 30. It has become an important part of my life and I feel my best when I do it. To be clear, it's not easy. It's something you have to work at, but the benefits are so worth it and over time it becomes easier and you crave it more.




Over summer break last year, we had our annual week of no electronics. It was the perfect time to intoduce my kids to morning meditation and make it part of their daily lives as well. At this point they meditate for five minutes, five days a week before school (now e-learning) and as needed on the weekends. It's a great way to get in tune with their bodies before I send them off into a stressful day.

So what do they think about it? Honestly, only my son has had the self awareness to acknowledge he needed a weekend meditation. I have found him in a quiet room doing a quick five minute meditation multiple times. My daughter on the other hand, looks at it more as something we just do. She knows it's something that can and will help her one day, but for now she sits silently for a few minutes and hopes one of our cats comes by her! lol

 (Spotted meditating by himself back in December.)

Let's talk about the benefits a bit, shall we? I can't tell you how many times I would think I was doing just fine only to start meditating and realize my body was anxious or sore or so so tired. Meditating allows me to connect to my body and my emotions more closely and deeply. I understand them more now. I understand myself more now. It has given me tools to stop my mind from racing and creating lists in the middle of the night, and to let go of thoughts and ideas that no longer serve me. Gone are the days of burying back down or avoiding any bad feelings that might come up. Now, I lean into those feelings and find where they come from and how I can get on the other side of them. It takes time, but investing in yourself is the best investment you can make. I truly feel like everyone can and would benefit from meditation. 

(Some days we lay together and listen to the meditation together.)

So, I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite apps and ones that I have heard great things about. Non of this is sponsored, I just really feel passionately about how important meditation is.

Headspace- This is the meditation app we have used more then any other and we love it. We currently have a family subscription because all four members of my family really do use it. There are a few free meditations, but the paid membership is far superior.

Centr Fitness- As I mentioned in Tuesday's post, Centr fitness is free for six weeks when you sign up on your web browser and then login from the app. There are lots of great meditations in addition to recipes, workouts, and health information. My son says this one is his favorite for meditation. I would have to agree that the music in the background (not just silence) is a nice addition.

Calm- There is a 7 day free trial and I know quite a few people who swear by this one.

Smiling Mind- This is a free app that has wonderful reviews. The Smiling Mind is good for all ages, so this would be a good place for people who are new to it to start.

Simple Habit- This one is great for people who think they just don't have the time to meditate. There are simple 5 minute meditations that you can do waiting in a line or even sitting in your car.

So that's my meditation story friends! Do you meditate? What benefits have you found that it brings into your life? Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today. I hope you make it a great day! xoxo