What are the best meditation apps for beginners?

The best meditation apps for beginners offer guided sessions, simple practices, and user-friendly interfaces. Here are some top options with relevant details:

1. Headspace

Features: Offers guided meditations, sleep sounds, stress relief exercises, and breathing techniques.

Best For: Beginners looking for a structured approach to mindfulness.

Highlights: “Basics” course designed for first-time meditators.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free trial; subscription starts at $12.99/month.

2. Calm

Features: Sleep stories, guided meditations, breathing exercises, and relaxing music.

Best For: Stress management and improving sleep.

Highlights: Offers a beginner series and focus meditations.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free version; premium starts at $14.99/month.

3. Insight Timer

Features: Thousands of free guided meditations, courses, and a customizable timer.

Best For: Exploring diverse meditation techniques and teachers.

Highlights: Community features like live events and discussion groups.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free; optional premium version at $60/year.

4. Smiling Mind

Features: Programs tailored for beginners, children, and workplaces.

Best For: Families and kids starting meditation.

Highlights: Science-backed techniques and age-specific content.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Completely free.

5. Ten Percent Happier

Features: Practical mindfulness techniques, daily meditations, and stress management tools.

Best For: Skeptics or those hesitant about meditation.

Highlights: Focus on real-life applications of mindfulness.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free trial; subscription starts at $99/year.

6. Breethe

Features: Guided meditations, life coaching, sleep aids, and stress reduction tools.

Best For: Beginners who want an all-in-one app.

Highlights: Includes courses on emotional resilience and personal growth.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free trial; subscription starts at $12.95/month.

7. MyLife (formerly Stop, Breathe & Think)

Features: Short guided meditations, mood trackers, and breathing exercises.

Best For: Beginners wanting personalized recommendations.

Highlights: Offers sessions based on your current mood and feelings.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free version; premium starts at $9.99/month.

8. Waking Up

Features: Meditation lessons, philosophy insights, and mindfulness practices.

Best For: Those interested in understanding the science and philosophy behind meditation.

Highlights: Offers free access for those who can’t afford a subscription.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free trial; subscription at $14.99/month.

9. Simple Habit

Features: Short, 5-minute meditations for busy individuals.

Best For: People with limited time for meditation.

Highlights: Tailored sessions for specific situations like commuting or stress.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web.

Cost: Free trial; premium starts at $11.99/month.

10. Balance

Features: Personalized meditation plans and daily check-ins.

Best For: Beginners wanting tailored guidance.

Highlights: First year is free for new users.

Platforms: iOS, Android.

Cost: Free first year; subscription starts at $12.99/month.

These apps cater to different needs and preferences, making it easy for beginners to start meditating.