I bet you have heard that you should cut down on screen time, but I would argue it is more about what you are consuming on the screen than the amount of time per se. Sure, I love social media too sometimes, but I am increasingly aware of not only the time spent but also what I am watching/reading/listening to because it is what impacts our physical, emotional and mental state on the day to day.
If you are doing weekly (or nightly!) Netflix binges, then maybe reconsider, you might be digging yourself in a wormhole. How about curating your time spent away from mindless scrolling or negative news to use your screen time more wisely?
Here is my round up of mindful apps you might also love. None of them are paying me to say this, I just love ‘em.
Three main apps I recommend to clients who are new to meditation:
Great for getting started, calm, funny, grounded gent leads you through guided meditation series. It has really cute animated videos to explain the basics of meditation. You can do quite a bit on the free version. (Free and paid)
Calm is a great catch-all mindfulness app. It has guided meditations, Zen sounds and bedtime stories read to you by Mathew McConaughey, need I say more? (Alright, alright, alright…) But really, it has something for everyone and is a great place to start bringing more mindfulness into your morning or bedtime routine. (Free and paid)
Personally, I just love the simple timer with options of which sorts of bells, chimes, and meditation sounds you want at the beginning, middle, and end of your meditation! It also has courses, a community, music, yoga, and a special section for parents who want to practice with their kids. (Free)
Mindful Fun App Recommendations:
Skyview to connect with the stars
Who doesn’t like looking at the stars? I love seeing where the planets are, Venus is strikingly close right now! This one is more fun than anything else, but ultimately it helps us to keep things in perspective when we can take a moment to connect to the insane reality that we are just a speck in this multiverse. ($2.99)
A mindful surreal exploration through zen architecture, a quest for forgiveness, what can I say, I’m not really a game person, but this is one I do I enjoy from time to time. It’s so beautiful, it’s a puzzle and it’s fun. ($3.99)
Netflix for ‘Woke’ culture content. I personally love Janet Stone’s Moment for Moms Yoga Classes, documentaries, alternative healing and teachings from many of the world’s leading teachers and gurus, quantum physics and also recipes. @wearegaia
Mindful or Intuitive Eating Apps:
Mindful or Intuitive Eating: mindfulness around eating is so important for us to be able to determine how what and when we are eating is making us feel. When we slow down to eat, and chew properly, and avoid screens while eating we are much more able to tune into our body to know if we feel revived and energetic after we eat or if we need to add in more fiber, water + nutrient dense foods such as vegetables, fresh fruit, legumes or whole grains.
Add more plants! If you haven’t already signed up for some daily recipe inspiration. In the beginning, when you are trying to eat more plant-based it is so helpful to have easy recipes at hand. I love that you can put in the serving size of each family member and have your recipes customized. It spits out shopping lists which are great in particular in the US or Canada. I use it to refresh my weekly menu plan.
Learn to identify real hunger vs. mindless eating: Zero – is an app that keeps track of your fasting hours. When I feel out of alignment like I did post-holiday season when I was totally out of whack with my routine. Anytime I am feeling I need an energy boost or to rein in my cravings or mindless eating, I will do a 16 hour fast, and then get back on track to a daily minimum of 12 hours between dinner and breakfast, ideally 13 hours. (Free)
Would you like more information on any of these health and wellness practices or how and when to implement them in your lifestyle? I’d love to hear from you @meganswanwellness
ENOUGH IS A FEAST: Eat Like An Animal – Go On Girl, ROAR! Sober Curator Megan Swan aka @meganswanwellness Helps Us Kick Off a Healthy Eating 2022!
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Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
Resources are available
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
