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4 Myths About Mindfulness Apps

Delve into the myths that revolve around mindfulness apps.

 

People are more concerned about mental health than ever. Not everyone can afford to go on expensive retreats to cure their anxiety or depression. That’s where mindfulness apps come in.

They claim to teach meditation practices that put people in control of their emotions. But how much of this is accurate?

Keep reading to find out four of the biggest myths about the mindfulness apps that so many of us download and use.

They Can Replace Medication 

Mindfulness apps are a handy tool when it comes to being present. This doesn’t mean, however, that people with severe depression or other mental health issues, should turn their back on medication.

Apps such as Headspace and Calm are great ways to relax a racing mind. They can’t be used in place of antidepressants and other prescribed tablets, though.

Using both mindfulness practices and medication, if necessary, is a far better option. Follow the advice of a professional before withdrawing from prescribed medication.

They Are Based on Buddhist Teachings

It’s easy to confuse mindfulness with meditation. The two are very interlinked and can produce similar results.

The Transcendental Meditation Program doesn’t endorse apps such as Headspace. This means that its teachings are not present in mindfulness apps.

Mindfulness is based on modern science and what we know about the human brain. Buddhism has evolved from scriptures and writings passed down over generations.

These apps, therefore, have no spiritual or religious connotations.

You Have to Be Good At It

Mindfulness is something that’s advertised as a process. Something that you must practice to get better at.

The truth is that mindfulness is not a goal or something to accomplish. It’s a way to shut off the outside world for ten minutes and focus on bringing your attention to the present.

Most people get frustrated when they don’t feel themselves getting “better” at it. These apps persuade users to practice continuously to see an improvement.

The issue with this is that people see mindfulness as something they need to accomplish. It takes the focus away from calming the mind and creates pressure to be good at it.

It’s The Only Option Apart From Medication

People suffering from mental health may not want or need to take tablets.

However, mindfulness is not the only option for dealing with mental health issues. CBD treatments have proven to be successful as a long term solution.

CBD comes from the hemp leaves of cannabis and can soothe anxious or stressful thoughts. It’s also very useful for treating mild depression. CBD is available as oil for ingesting, or edible gummy sweets.

CBD cigarettes are especially handy for those who want a more natural way to ingest it. They can also help smokers cut back on their regular nicotine fix for a more natural substance.

​To Sum It Up

Now you know a few truths about mindfulness apps, and how they might not be what you were expecting. The practice is useful, but downloading apps to improve your mental health may not be the best or only solution.

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