Let's face it, we have all experienced that slew of days where we're suddenly inspired to be better. All of a sudden, we're overcome with an inkling to eat healthily, drink more water, go out for a run, and dress a little better. It feels good. But, sadly it doesn't last for very long. Too often do we succumb to temptation and sink back into old habits. Even though we know that they may be bad for us, it's just too easy to give in because of its comfortable familiarity. But, there's no reason this time can't be different. It's time to make a change and with our phones by our side, here are some apps to help the process of building these new habits more fun:
Get "Calm" for mental health.
Mental health is very important to maintain, but many of us don't know how to do so or where to start. Meditation is the perfect way to improve your mindset. By setting aside time to meditate, we can improve the quality of our sleep, our focus throughout the day, and the development of a more positive and grateful attitude and outlook toward life. With "Calm," you can not only partake in guided meditation sessions, but you can go through some of their "7 Days" sessions for specific areas you would like to target like sleep, gratitude, stress management, and self-esteem. By participating in one of these week-long sessions, you can develop the habit of setting aside time for yourself, and by the end of it, you'll feel like a whole new person.
Get "Plant Nanny" for hydration.
"Drink more water." We've all heard this tip whenever searching up ways to have a healthier lifestyle. Drinking water helps promote clear skin and keeps us feeling a little full before a meal so we don't eat so much. The hard part is being mindful about drinking water throughout the day instead of just at meals or when we absolutely feel parched. That's where "Plant Nanny" comes in. Imagine a Tamagotchi but one that will remind you to stay hydrated. With "Plant Nanny," you basically pick a plant, and every time you drink some water and record it, you also water your plant and help it grow. Over time, your little seed turns into a fully bloomed dandelion, and you feel more energized and hydrated.
Get "Duolingo" for foreign language learning.
A lot of us dream of being able to be like those people who have the special skill of seamlessly transitioning into speaking another language in conversation. "Duolingo" is the perfect app to get you started so you can impress your boss, your friends, or even some strangers when you're able to speak fluent Italian during that summer trip to Rome. With over 30 languages to choose from (for free), awards when you pass certain levels, lessons that only take a couple minutes, and even a community where you can chat with real people and help each other learn together, this is an app that makes it much more enjoyable to learn a new language than just sitting in a dull classroom.
Get "Study" for more focus and productivity.
"Study" is a simple, yet effective app. By using this every time I do work either in the quiet of my own room or with the chatter of people going by in our campus lounges, I get things done. You basically start listening to a "soundscape" that lasts 45 minutes. Once that 45 minutes are over, it's time to take a short break, replay the soundscape and get more work done. The soundscape combines sounds of nature with smooth tempo music without lyrics specifically developed to promote a more relaxed but alert state of mind. The simplicity of the app makes it one so easy to use on the daily.
Get "YouTube" for fun ways to exercise at home.
OK, so this may not be one app that you may think of when you think of self-betterment. In fact, you may relate this app to something you use to distract yourself from actually being productive. But, I put this app here because I think it's all about the way you use it. There are so many great YouTube channels out there to help you live a healthier life, more specifically in regards to physical health. The channel Blogilates has made some amazing workout playlists from a "6 Minute Sexy Series" to an "Apartment Friendly Series," all of which you don't need a gym membership to do. Want more of a fun workout and love to dance but hate that Zumba classes only stick to Latin music? Well the channel The Fitness Marshall is one you should definitely check out. This channel provides short workout dance videos (no longer than about four and a half minutes) to a variety of different songs. These dances are perfect for any level of dance experience and why not get fit while also learning a dance to impress your friends at your next party?
Hopefully, with these five fun apps, you are inspired to really come in and make a change for this year and leave the year as the better version of yourself you had always envisioned. By using these apps consistently, ironically, the goal is to be able to keep up the habits you've created without the aid of the app. You'll have developed the self-discipline to be more mindful and healthy all on your own. So with that, I say good luck! You've got this!
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