Calm

The only good thing I can really say about this app is that the rain soundscapes are probably the best I've found on any app. The stories were weird for trying to sleep to, but maybe that's just me. The ability to browse all of their content is somewhat limited as well--hard to know where to navigate to sometimes. A lot of what I listened to, especially in the Daily Jay, seemed over-focused on productivity, being the best I can be, self-improvement, etc.--rather than learning to accept and love myself as I am. Self help content can often be subtly toxic this way, and I'd rather not get it from something selling itself as having psychological benefits. I told my therapist that I had gotten it, and she promptly told me to uninstall it--turns out she hates the app with a passion, and many of her colleagues feel likewise. My qualifications: I have practiced meditation for years--both silent, zen-style meditation with a local sangha and guided meditations a la Headspace. I struggle with depression, PTSD, and ADHD and have experienced many treatment modalities over the years--including extensive mindfulness practice. TLDR: some good, but plenty of toxic self help rather than evidence-based psychological content. Plenty of other apps that are cheaper or free.

Halyna Borok

Amploo

A very nice app that helps to relax and chill. Sometimes it's very hard for me to calm my mind and then Calm is very helpful. And especially I love the affirmations and their posts on Instagram)

Calm is one of the best apps for meditation, sleep, and relaxation. It offers guided meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep stories that help reduce stress and improve focus. The soothing background sounds and nature-inspired music make it a great companion for unwinding after a long day. I love how it caters to both beginners and experienced meditators, with a variety of sessions covering anxiety, mindfulness, and self-improvement. The sleep stories, narrated by calming voices, are a standout feature. While the free version has limited content, the premium subscription unlocks a vast library of resources that make it well worth it.