New technology is not good or evil in and of itself. It’s all about how people choose to use it.
David Wong
Technology is becoming so seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives that we don’t always realize its impact.
Sometimes, it can be helpful to take a step back and unplug for the sake of your emotional wellness.
Other times… it might make sense to plug back in for the very same reason!
Read on for 5 apps that can help improve your emotional wellness:
1. Headspace (meditation / sleep app)
If you’re new to the idea of meditation, it might seem intimidating or too uncomfortable to try. But, in reality, meditation doesn’t have to be a big deal. And considering how easy it is to get started… the potential benefits are truly staggering. Headspace is one of a wave of apps designed to ease you into the practice of meditation gradually. And with new features designed to help you get a better night’s sleep, this is one app worth trialing.
LOOKING FOR A LOW-TECH ALTERNATIVE?
You can practice mindfulness just about anywhere. A simple (tech-free) meditation option is simply to pause and scan your body. Is it tired? Achy? Energized? Relaxed?
2. Daylio (mood tracker app)
How are you feeling? It’s such a straightforward question, and yet– for many of us– the answer can be frustratingly hard to pin down. Enter: Daylio, an app designed to help you get a handle on your changing moods, recording them all in one place where you can review them, identify patterns, and even share them with your therapist.
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Even tracking your mood once daily can yield important insights into your emotional patterns over time. You can simply write a single word (or draw a face) on each day of your calendar to record how you’re feeling that day.
3. Recovery Record (eating / emotion tracker app)
Whether you’re recovering from an eating disorder or struggling to tune in to the connections between your thoughts, feelings, and eating habits… Recovery Road can be an excellent resource for you. With built-in “rewards” for consistent tracking, and an option to receive messages of encouragement, you’ll feel supported each step of the way.
LOOKING FOR A LOW-TECH ALTERNATIVE?
Your therapist can probably recommend a free “food and feelings” tracker to download and print. But, even simpler than that: You can simply track meals in your calendar, noting any thoughts and feelings that came up at that time.
4. Lake (coloring book app)
Looking for a way to unwind without the bother of text…? Lake may be the creative solution you’re after! With unique and varied designs, you can let your mind wander as you light up the screen with your own colorful creations.
LOOKING FOR A LOW-TECH ALTERNATIVE?
Adult coloring books are officially everywhere. But, if you’re looking for a money-saving option, coloring books designed for kiddos work just as well!
5. Notes (note-taking app)
The thought that kept you awake last night? The”aha” moment that hit you on your commute this morning? The question you’ve gotta remember to ask your therapist next week? These pieces of information can be vital to your growth in therapy… if you don’t forget them first, that is! It’s not flashy or exciting, but the basic Notes app on your phone is one of the most useful tool sat your disposal. Create a folder marked THERAPY and add to it throughout the week. Your therapist (and your emotional wellness) will thank you!
LOOKING FOR A LOW-TECH ALTERNATIVE?
Good old pen and paper never fails! It could be as simple as a pad of post-its, or as fancy as a brand-new journal. Just keep it handy, and write thoughts down as you go throughout your day.
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Curious to learn more about how apps can improve your emotional wellness?