These are unusual times and people all over the country are looking for ways to decompress. But despite how claustrophobic it can feel to shelter in place, there are actually plenty of ways to open your mind and even better yourself while you’re under quarantine.
As an example, you can focus on physical fitness and self-improvement. There are numerous exercise apps you can download, as well as streaming workouts you can do in your living room. Tap or click here to see some of our favorites.
But what about healing your mind? Many psychologists and self-help resources recommend meditation as a great way to de-stress. Here are some of our favorite apps you can use to take a load off your mind. Plus, we’ll show you how some of the biggest names in entertainment are coping indoors.
Noisli uses white noise to block out the stress
Noisli is an audio program for meditation and sleeping that lulls you into a calm frame of mind with tranquil sounds. This app focuses on creating a white noise effect that blocks out excess audio in your environment to help you disconnect and focus inward.
Noisli can be doubly useful if you have a family member or loved one glued to the TV with the news playing, or if you have neighbors who argue a bit too loudly. The program is free to access and use on Noisli.com, but you can download a smartphone optimized version for $2.00 on iOS and Android.
Headspace brings you peace and calm
Headspace was originally created for meditation, but proponents also claim it can help you sleep better with regular use. It features calm, soothing voices and tranquil sounds to create audio environments that help relax you into a better frame of mind.
The app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices, and receives daily updates and changes to prevent you from hearing the same thing twice.
There is a paid option that gives you access to more than 40 themed audio courses as well. These are mostly meditation themed, but some are specially geared toward helping you catch some Z’s.
Aura acts like your own personal meditation instructor
Aura is one of the most robust meditation apps on the market and its premium version offers guided sessions that feel like a real instructor is with you in the room. It’s even earned a “Best of” rank from the Apple App store for its glowing reviews. Tap or click here to find out more about Aura.
Bonus: How some of the world’s most beloved entertainers are passing the time
You’re not the only one looking for new ways to spend time indoors. Celebrities ranging from Disney movie stars to accomplished classical musicians have taken to the internet to share their experiences with others.
Grammy Award-winner Lizzo led a meditation session for her Instagram followers since the outbreak began, and regularly checks in with fans to provide music and comfort.
Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf from the “Frozen” franchise, had his own plan to help American families stuck at home. Over Twitter, he’s started reading books to fans and their families
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) March 19, 2020
And Yo-Yo Ma, one of the most accomplished musicians in his generation, will be performing his favorite cello pieces from home as part of his #SongsofComfort series.
In these days of anxiety, I wanted to find a way to continue to share some of the music that gives me comfort. The first of my #SongsOfComfort: Dvořák – “Going Home”
— Yo-Yo Ma (@YoYo_Ma) March 13, 2020
Stay safe. pic.twitter.com/S28w6OlXiZ
The world might seem dark, but the human spirit will continue to light the way. And by taking time for yourself to relax, your own inner light can illuminate the space around you. Stay safe and stay healthy .
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, advice, or health objectives.