12 best mindfulness apps for meditation, keeping calm and help sleeping – The Independent

Over the past couple of years mindfulness has exploded in popularity. Like many trends, it has faced questions about whether it’s just another health-crazed fad. 

But it’s not just Instagram influencers who are recommending it. According to the NHS website, paying more attention to the present moment, and to thoughts and feelings, helps to improve mental wellbeing and enables people to enjoy life and understand themselves better. 

Thanks to the boom, there are now dozens of apps on the market to help you start – or continue – your path to mindfulness. The vast majority of these apps are free (at least at first) and offer short, guided meditations so it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro.