By Natalie Smith

Throughout life we all have bumpy times when the stress of balancing a full active life can be more than we can handle alone. Stress can often lead to malaise and a lack of motivation. This article will offer a two-pronged method of fighting stress, from the inside and through the community. First we will go through apps which will help you relax, connect to your emotions,  and stay physically and mentally healthy – all with the use of your mobile phones. Once we have discussed the individual, we will move onto community, an equally important aspect of stress management. It is important to have a support network of friends and family, and this section will tell you how.

Apps: Focusing on the self

Simply Being – Guided Meditation for Relaxation and Presence

This app by the Meditation Oasis, which was recommended by the NY Times, SELF magazine, and Yoga Journal, guides you into a deep and meaningful meditative experience. You can meditate with or without music. Commentators attest to its ability to help slow a racing mind and lift the shackles of insomnia, allowing the user to fall into a peaceful sleep. This highly recommended app is compatible with iPhone, android and BlackBerry models.

Pocket Yoga

This app, by Vimukti Technologies Pvt Ltd., allows you to practice the art of yoga by focusing your movements, breathing and form, while guiding you through an entire yoga session. This app has many traditional yoga poses with a Vinyasa flow. With this app you can improve your posture and flexibility and gain peace of mind through deep breathing and meditation. You can also view each pose with a description of what you are meant to do and the physical and mental health benefits it offers.

Mood Journal Plus

This app, by javadive technologies, is designed to aid those suffering from mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. This app allows you to track your moods, monitor your symptoms and recognize patterns in your emotional life. The sleep chart allows you to monitor sleep patterns, and the medicine log allows you to record any side effects you may experience. This app helps you and your doctor communicate as you can both better understand the trajectory of your moods. There is also a welcoming and supportive community at Mood Journal where you can share your thoughts, struggles and insights.

Giving back: Focusing on the community

Giving back to others in need is a great way to achieve a sense of calm connection, as well as appreciation for the world we live in.

Making a pledge to the community

One great way to feel connected to others is by pledging your time and commitment to others. With the BlackBerry action campaign you can do just this. This campaign asks you to create a goal for personal or community benefit. For example, you might pledge to cycle to work two days a week to fight pollution, or pledge to do a clothing drive for your local shelter. In this way you are connecting to others, aiding the community, and giving yourself a sense of accomplishment.

Volunteering

Find an organization in need and devote your time.

Be Kind

Work on being a positive presence in society by smiling at people and being polite. You never know what struggles another may be dealing with, and a little kindness goes a long way.

Be Social

Get out there! Whether it is as simple as getting a coffee with a friend or organizing a charity-run, it is always best to keep active.

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