With so much going on in the world right now, we could all use something to help us feel calmer. Fortunately,
Meditation is a technique that has been used for thousands of years to develop present moment awareness. This can involve practices to sharpen focus and attention, connect body and breath, develop acceptance of difficult emotions, and even shift consciousness.
However, beginning the practice of meditation can seem daunting. With so many apps, tools, and devices available, it can be difficult to sift through what you actually need to be successful on your meditation journey.
We asked our editors who meditate to find out what helps them connect with their body and mind. Here are their recommendations to get you started.
Manduka Eko Yoga Mat 5mm
“This yoga mat isn’t too firm, but not too soft either. It’s supportive and comfortable – and it makes me feel supported and secure when I’m meditating or practicing deep breathing.
It comes in different color options and is also eco-friendly and biodegradable, so I feel like I’m taking care of the Earth in a small way when I meditate on it. — Christy Snyder, Editor II, Healthline
Julianne Aiello Yoga Daily Practice
“I have practiced yoga led by Julie Aiello in person and virtually, and through her company Outdoor Yoga SF on the beaches of San Francisco. I have friends who have been on her yoga retreats and have done his small meditation groups. In some cases, it helped them feel grounded to have the same people to come back to.
“Based on these experiences, I highly recommend his meditation group. But it’s really about any group you can join or create, whether a sense of responsibility, community, or live guidance is what helps you to meditate. Candice Abellon, Editor-in-Chief, Healthline
Restore Charcoal & Tonka Scented Candle
“I love having specific scents or aromatherapy tools that I only use when meditating or relaxing. For me, it kind of signals to my brain that it’s time to relax or decompress.
“I light this candle when I meditate, and it’s a lovely scent (charcoal and tonka) that isn’t too overpowering.” — Melissa Lee, Editor I, Healthline
Platoon Meditation
- Price: free trial, $ per month
“Before using Peloton Meditation, I wasn’t really someone who could just sit still (I’m a bit of a multi-tasker). I tried Peloton Meditation in a company-wide movement challenge, and 2 years later, I’m still hooked.
“Chelsea Jackson Roberts, my favorite meditation coach, really helps me clear the noise and focus on an intention. It helps that the music she uses and her voice are both so calming. Sleep meditation of 10 minutes is a personal favorite for my nighttime relaxation. Anne Arntson, Editor-in-Chief, Healthline
Plant Therapy Roll-On Pre-Diluted Essential Oil Lavender
“The research behind essential oils is complicated, but what many researchers have discovered is that there is definitely a
“This lavender essential oil roll-on helps me clear my mind and allows me to sink deeper into my meditation. I just roll it over my neck and wrists and breathe deeply. It’s also great for anyone who might have pets sensitive to essential oils, as it won’t spread the scent throughout the room. — Jen Anderson, Managing Editor, Healthline
Retrospec Sedona Meditation Cushion
“The meditation cushion is a handy tool for meditation that helps keep my legs from falling asleep. There’s nothing more distracting while meditating than suddenly going numb!
I like this one because it’s affordable and the sea glass color is my jam. — Crystal Hoshaw, Special Projects Editor, Healthline
BlueRidgeBrands Teak Meditation Bench
“A meditation bench is another great option for pins and needles or for those who need an alternative to sitting cross-legged. It allows you to sit in a comfortable hero pose without putting pressure on your body. your knees.
I prefer the folding teak version as it is a high quality wood and easy to store. — Hoshaw
Off-Grid Mindfulness Awakening Meditation Timer and Clock
“I love this little clock as my alarm clock and my meditation timer. It has the option of a single chime bell or a multi-chime bell, both of which are calm and soothing.
It also has a timer setting so you can sit in meditation and conclude with the sound of the bell. There’s also a “hide screen” setting so you don’t watch!” — Hoshaw
[email protected]
“The [email protected] app has been fundamental for me to develop mindfulness muscles and embed mindfulness into my workflows.
“They have practices specifically categorized by fundamentals of meditation (in the learning series), mood, and work scenarios. This has also supported my work-life balance over the past 4 years. — Anthony Machi, Senior Associate, Medical News Today
calm
“The Radical Self-Care series created by Lama Rod Owens on the Calm app healed me.
Lama Rod’s vulnerability and wisdom in this series has helped me be present with my natural body, breath and mind – and embrace it. I really loved this series and I play it often. — Machi
