Key Points
- Meditation apps can increase screen time and contribute to tech stress, hindering the goal of disconnecting from digital distractions.
- With numerous meditation apps available, it can be challenging to find the best one for your practice.
- Meditation apps may not help you focus on your specific goals and lack the interactivity of an experienced guide.
- In-app costs and subscriptions can make meditation apps less cost-effective than alternatives like books or local meditation groups.
You hear the words mindfulness and relaxation today more than ever. And, if you’re like us, you probably want to experience the benefits that come from adding more peace to your life.
But you may also be wondering if there are any reasons to avoid a new meditation app. Today, we’re looking at if they work and what their limitations are. But first, let’s delve into some meditation app background information.
Some Background on Meditation Apps
Headspace often gets credited as the first meditation app. It was launched in 2012 as a popular early meditation alternative. Headspace is still available and has a user-friendly interface with guided meditations for day or sleep.
Since this first meditation app, many others have entered the market. Insight Timer was another early contender that remains one of our personal favorites. The free version is very comprehensive, but there are tip jars for meditation creators and a paid version with expanded offerings.
Some meditation apps also offer guided movement sessions, like yoga, so they can compete to be your one-app-meets-all. And while some users may find that helpful, it still doesn’t get you into the real world where you can meet other practitioners.
Reasons to Avoid a Meditation App
Here are some reasons to avoid a meditation app today.
1. Meditation Apps are Technology Dependent
The primary reason to avoid a meditation app is that it ties you back to the tech gadgets you probably need a break from. We already spend so much time reacting to our phones’ pinging that people have signs of tech stress. And that also doesn’t account for screen time on laptops or tablets.
©Black Salmon/Shutterstock.com
Meditation apps require the use of smartphones or tablets. So, if you’re trying to reduce screen time, avoiding a meditation app can help you more fully disconnect from digital distractions. You’ll create a more mindful environment without adding more technology.
2. Too Many to Choose from
Head over to the app store, where you’ll see dozens of meditation apps. There are so many that it’s challenging to find the best one for your practice. So, you might end up downloading an app you only use once or twice.
3. Some Apps Don’t Help You Focus on Your Goal
If you aren’t sure what your goal is from meditating, apps may not be the best choice to start with. An interactive discussion with an experienced guide can help you clarify what you hope to get from meditation.
Then, they can lead you through a goal-oriented session, rather than you picking something that looks like it might meet your needs.
Customizing your practice to suit your unique self is much easier when you explore meditation independently or with a group practice. Additionally, meditation apps are one-sided instead of interactive.
4. Meditation App Costs
While your new meditation app might have a free version or a trial period, premium content usually requires a subscription or “tip.” So, the surprising in-app costs might have you wanting to avoid a new meditation app altogether. A book or local meditation group might prove more cost-effective in the long run.
Alternatives to Meditation Apps
There are alternatives to meditation apps that can help you practice mindfulness and relaxation. Here are five options to consider.
Guided Meditation Videos
- Directed by Mark Knight
- Starring Anne-Marie Newland
- Average rating: 3.7/ 5
You can find numerous guided meditation videos on platforms like Amazon Prime and YouTube. Meditation teachers and experts share their guidance through video format.
They teach you techniques to reduce stress and focus your mind. The videos allow you to follow along, practice meditation, and calm your body without the need for a dedicated app.
Podcasts to Avoid a New Meditation App
- Meditations range from 10 - 20 minutes
- Focus on mindfulness, visualizations, and affirmations
- Available on Audible
Many podcasts, like Meditation Mountain, focus on meditation and mindfulness. Find their guided meditations on Amazon Prime Audio Books. You can find ten to twenty-minute podcasts for improving sleep or lowering anxiety.
Through visualization and affirmations, you can experience a recharging of your spirit. And through discussion topics, you’ll learn from experienced practitioners. Find meditation podcasts on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, or Google platforms.
Mindfulness Books
- Print length: 172 pages
- Over 4,288 ratings
- 4.2 on Goodreads (32,678 ratings)
- Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh offers gentle anecdotes and practical exercises as a means of learning the skills of mindfulness
So many excellent books are available that delve into mindfulness practice and offer step-by-step instructions for meditation. You’d never miss a mediation app with one of these choices.
Books like The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh or Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn are valuable resources for creating your own meditation practice.
- Has sold over 1 million copies to date
- Average rating: 4.6/ 5
- Jon Kabat-Zinn combines his research and medical background with his spiritual knowledge
Mindfulness Courses
Another way to avoid a new meditation app is to enroll in a mindfulness course. Check with local community colleges or centers for low-cost workshops. Or look for a yoga center that also offers mindfulness sessions. You’ll receive structured guidance and have opportunities to practice in person or virtually.
Watercolor Mindfulness Alternative to a New Meditation App
- Emma Burleigh, an art educator with over 20 years of experience, shares her knowledge
- Focus on mindful watercolor painting
- Published in 2021
Drawing, painting, and coloring as a means of meaningful meditation is another alternative to a new meditation app. Coloring books and watercolor guides offer a way to cultivate your creativity, develop artistic confidence, and deepen your meditation skills.
They let you think about self-discovery and mindfulness in a different light. And we think you’ll really enjoy them!
Meditation Communities
You might consider joining a meditation community or group to avoid a new meditation app. These groups provide a supportive environment for practicing meditation.
Local or online communities often organize regular group mindfulness sessions and offer guidance for beginners and experienced meditators alike.
Plug in a Himalayan Salt Lamp
- Made from natural Himalayan salt crystal
- Dimmable
- Orange/ amber color
- Handcrafted
- Improves air quality
Himalayan salt lamps are said to clean and deodorize your room’s air while increasing your energy level. So, they are a soothing way to find some relaxation during a hectic day.
You can even use the salt lamp in conjunction with watching a guided meditation video or listening to a podcast instead of searching for a new meditation app.
Wrapping Up Reasons to Avoid a New Meditation App
Finding a community of like-minded souls may provide more long-term peace than a meditation app that keeps you isolated at home. While meditation apps offer convenience and flexibility for busy schedules, they keep you technology dependent.
Taking a break from tech devices may be just what your mind and soul need. Choose a combination of the alternatives if you want a reason to avoid a new meditation app. Taking an in-person class might complement a watercolor mindfulness book you work through.
There’s no wrong answer about how you choose your personal meditation practice. But meditation apps don’t usually fill your entire need. So, even though they aid you in a journey, they don’t completely take the place of real-world interaction.
Summary Table
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Technology Dependent | Meditation apps tie you back to tech gadgets, potentially increasing screen time and digital distractions. |
| 2. Too Many to Choose from | With numerous meditation apps available, it can be challenging to find the best one for your practice. |
| 3. Lack of Goal Focus | Apps may not help you focus on your meditation goals as effectively as an experienced guide or group practice. |
| 4. Costs | Surprising in-app costs and subscription fees might make meditation apps less cost-effective than alternatives. |
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Koshiro K/Shutterstock.com.
