Throughout our day, we are consciously (and unconsciously) observing and analyzing the things that go on around us.

I’m preaching to myself here, at least. Whether it’s an important document for work or a confusing text from an evil ex, we have successfully trained our brains to obtain data and examine it for deeper meaning or explanation. Sometimes, to the point where we drive ourselves absolutely crazy. But, it’s more important now than ever to remain calm – especially if what you’re stressing about is not at all in your control. Give yourself a break; Let go.

When I’m stressed I tend to download a lot of apps. It’s like my coping mechanism.

Here are the good ones that I’ve seen results using every day to help me obtain my goals while also remaining really chill.

Headspace

This app makes meditation accessible, modern, and practical. From suggestions on how to sit, to specific sessions for everyday moments like getting out of bed, walking, eating, grieving, etc. Mindfulness takes a calm, relaxed approach and can bring relaxation into the lives of adults and kids. That said, for some people who need visual cues, this app is a must. Of course, how effective it is will depend solely on if and how regularly you simply take the time to sit and listen to your mind.

Most importantly, this app reminds you how to breathe. It’s so easy to forget to really breathe in a world that requires so much of our attention.

Reflectly

Reflectly is essentially a mood journal. Think of it as a pocket-sized, personal, mental health companion.  When you take time to reflect on your day, you’re reaping a lot of mental health bennies, such as:

• Allowing yourself to notice negative patterns in your life.

  By recording your daily thoughts and moods, you can step back and start to see some patterns. By becoming more self-aware, we’re  able to have a better understanding of what we truly want in life.

• Helping you face your inner fears.

  Most folks are scared of what they’ll find when they take the time to ask yourself how you really feel.  It’s critical to ask ourselves, is it worth it to take as little as 5 minutes out of our day for introspection, in exchange for clarity and chill?  I think it’s safe to say you already know the answer.

• Finally feeling different emotional results.

  When we continuously go through our lives the same way, day in and day out, we inevitably block the chance of changing things for the better. So, starting today: Write down your honest thoughts, really observe them, and you’ll hopefully start to see the bigger picture.

Ecosia

Ecosia is a search engine app that plants trees for roughly every 45 searches you make. With 80% of the profits supporting  planting programs, you can feel good about helping the environment while you leisurely surf the web. How cool is that?! I’m obsessed with it. You can also replace Safari or Chrome on your computer desktop by visiting their site (a little pop-up will ask you once you’re on the page) and you’ll stay DOUBLE chill knowing you’re making a difference while you “google”.

7M Women Workout

One of the best ways to relieve stress and stay calm is to exersize, America. Wake up. Throw the pills away and get moving.

This workout app (branded for women, but can totally be unisex) is simple enough to stick to without feeling defeated, for lack of a better term. With cute animations that convey the moves and count you down to your next pose, 7M helps you check off a morning or nightly workout from your daily to-do list. By starting the day off with exersize, your mind and mood with truly thank you. You’ll instantly get more energy, be proud, confident, and overall not feel like a potato. Just try it. The longest one is 15 minutes, but stick to the 7 minute ones twice a day and you’ll thank me later.

My Water Balance

Calm Clinic says it best: “Dehydration may affect anxiety in a variety of ways, but the clearest link is that when the body is dehydrated, it starts to function improperly. Hormones are unable to reach their destined locations because of poor blood flow. Muscles may tense up. Your brain may experience weakness or changes as a result of water loss (the brain is 85% water).

Simplified: When your body is stressed, you experience anxiety as a result.”

If you’re looking for a simple way to unwind from your stress-filled life, try drinking a glass of water.

I know, easy sounding, right? The link between water and stress reduction is clear. All of our organs, including our brains, need water to function properly. If you’re dehydrated, your body isn’t running well — and that can lead to stress.

Most people don’t drink enough water. It’s constantly something I’m trying to fix and I still don’t seem to be drinking 100% of my daily water intake should be. This app helps holds you accountable with graphs, push notifications and other helpful funtioins you when to take a few sips. It’s really nothing special, but I find it helps me stay hydrated and stress-free  throughout the day.

There you have it. I keep these apps in their own personal folder called “Daily” along with my local news app, Duolingo, and the Health app. Stay healthy, folks. And most importantly, chill the f*ck out.

xo, meg