Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Headspace

$12.99/month

Headspace offers hundreds of guided meditations designed to help you reduce stress, increase focus, and improve sleep. The app uses a friendly and approachable style, perfect for both beginners and experienced meditators.

Our take

A friendly guide to mindfulness.

So, I’ve been messing around with Headspace for a bit, trying to see what all the fuss is about. First off, I love how the app just welcomes you with open arms, no pressure. You open it up, and it’s straight to business with a friendly, colorful vibe that doesn’t overwhelm. But, you know, I’ve got to say, sometimes I wonder if it’s a bit too much of a good thing with all the animations and cute graphics. It’s like they’re trying really hard to keep you entertained, which is cool, but maybe a bit distracting when you’re supposed to be winding down.

Diving into the meditations, I’ve found a mixed bag. On the plus side, the sessions are guided well, and they’ve got this guy with a soothing voice leading most of them. Imagine if your favorite calm uncle decided to get into meditation coaching — it’s kind of like that. However, I did catch myself thinking, “Do I really need someone to tell me how to breathe?” But then again, if you’re new to this whole meditation thing, having someone walk you through it can be a lifesaver. Just don’t expect anything too deep or spiritual; it’s more about getting you to chill out and focus.

Now, the app does have a pretty hefty library, which is a big win. Whether you’re trying to sleep better, focus more, or just not freak out as much, there’s probably something here for you. But here’s the kicker: a lot of the good stuff is behind a paywall. They give you a taste with a few free sessions, but if you want the full buffet, you’re going to have to shell out some cash. It’s not crazy expensive, but still, it’s something to weigh if you’re just dabbling.

I also tried out some of their sleepcasts, which are basically bedtime stories for adults. The idea is charming, right? And they’ve got some soothing narrators too. But honestly, I’m not sure if they’re hitting the mark for everyone. Sometimes the stories start dragging, and you’re left thinking, “Am I supposed to be asleep by now?” It’s a fun twist if you’re into storytelling, but not everyone’s cup of tea when it comes to winding down for the night.

In the end, Headspace is like that friendly neighbor who’s always inviting you over for a cup of tea. It’s welcoming and full of options to help you relax and focus. But, it’s also not without its quirks and costs. If you’re serious about getting into meditation and can justify the subscription, it’s a solid choice. But if you’re just dipping a toe in, you might find yourself wondering if it’s worth it or if you could find similar content elsewhere for less. Still, it’s got its heart in the right place, and that counts for something.