Jules Says: 'Appiness: Apps that Promote Wellbeing for YOU

As teachers we’re always on the alert for tech tools that will benefit our students—from creating podcasts, to writing and creating images, to honing study skills. But what about our well-being? After all, we are easier to be with and more effective when we’re channeling our higher selves—rather than that stressed-out imposter who sometimes stands in for us.

Here are some apps for you to take a look at--for you. Yes you! Carve out a few minutes of your busy day to take a look. Maybe one or two will inspire a few New Year’s Resolutions. That’s what I’m thinking anyway. . . 

Workouts
Maybe you truly want to work out, but getting to the gym before or after school is tough. But what if you could turn your smart phone into a personal trainer. Check out Nike+ Training Club, and choose a workout according to how much time you can spare (15 minutes? 45 minutes?). You can also work toward a long-term goal. Reviewers have given Nike+ high marks for cardiovascular endurance and working up a sweat (read: burn calories) (free; some workouts call for dumbbells).

Another highly-rated workout app is Fitness Buddy. This is for you if you’re into  building muscle and strength training. You can try out 300 exercises and full exercise routines before deciding whether you want to invest (99-cents and free to begin with). 

Healthy Eating 
This is a tough one for me, especially when life gets super busy and chocolate frozen yogurt seems more appealing than trying to whip up a kale salad. But for the past few months I’ve been using MyFitnessPal, an app that not only helps you count calories and keep a food journal, but also sends you email messages on topics such as workout routines you can do in five minutes and slimmed-down recipes for the foods you crave (turkey, apple, & chutney sandwich, anyone?). It’s helping me think in new ways.

Getting Your Head Together
When life gets frantic, why not take a few minutes to meditate your way back to a calm and focused state? Let a Tibetian Buddhist monk be your guide, teaching you various techniques. With Headspace you can try 10 free tutorials to set you on the path to serenity. After that you can pay a monthly or yearly fee to continue ($13; and $96 respectively).  

Similarly, the Mindfulness app is all about brining you an inner calm through guided meditation. The goal? Meditating for 20 minutes a day to help you be “more present” in your life ($1.99).  

What apps have you found that has made your life calmer? Healthier? More joyful? How has a positive frame of mind impacted your teaching? Let us know!

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