free Android apps for meditation
Whether you’re just starting out with meditation or have been doing it for years, the right app can help you keep up your practice. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to figure out which ones are worth your time.
Good Housekeeping’s expert meditation app reviewer Rachel Rothman curated this list using feedback from users, testing results, and other research and evaluations. She and her team also used information from the App Store and Google Play to select apps that have a proven track record. Those that offer free content or at least a free trial period are highlighted in yellow. Those that require a subscription are highlighted in purple.
Some of the most popular apps for meditation and mindfulness are paid at www.apkwing.org. They include meditation from a wide range of traditions and teachers, as well as programs designed to address particular situations and challenges (like focusing at work or getting more sleep). Some of these apps even have a video library that includes teachings on mindfulness benefits.
Are there any free Android apps for meditation and mindfulness?
One of the most popular free meditation apps is Headspace. Its colorful interface acts as a welcome mat for newbies, with an easy-to-understand guide that asks you about your current challenges and goals. After a short assessment, Headspace delivers a series of guided meditations to help you focus and overcome your challenges. The app also lets you check off days when you’ve meditated to see how consistent you’ve been.
Another free meditation app that has received high marks from both consumers and experts is 10% Happier. It’s been especially popular during the pandemic because it offers a number of meditations that are customized for various situations and activities—like walking in the city, taking a break at work, waiting for an appointment, or going to sleep. It also has a library of over 500 guided meditation videos and new series about mindfulness are regularly released to subscribers.
This app is a bit more advanced than others on this list. It offers guided meditation exercises from renowned teachers, but it also allows you to create your own custom tracks. It even has a built-in white noise generator for masking distracting sounds or to promote relaxation before sleeping. While it doesn’t come with a lot of pre-recorded meditations, its creators say the custom-created ones are more effective.
This app is a great choice for kids who are interested in meditation or want to learn how to calm down. It uses Sesame Street characters to teach kids the concept of calming down with breath and thought. The app is free to download but has a membership option that’s available on a monthly or annual basis.