NOW AVAILABLE! Download the revamped Breathr app '2.0' today.
Begin to explore mindfulness with the Breathr app
Developed by the BC Children's Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre and BC Children's Centre for Mindfulness, along with young people, this free app provides ways to get started with mindfulness.
Breathr provides opportunities for youth and young adults to try a variety of mindfulness practices, from guided meditations to simple practices that can be used anywhere.
It also teaches interesting facts about the brain science behind those practices. For example, did you know that regularly practicing mindfulness can improve your relationships and connection with others? Or that it has been shown to change parts of the brain that improve memory and reduce stress?
Our aim is to show youth that mindfulness can be fun, easy to try, and that it can have noticeable benefits for their overall health and well-being.
The Breathr app has been updated with a brand new look and feel!
You’ll also find some new mindfulness practices to give a try. Check out two new self-compassion guided meditations, and short practices like STOP, Becoming like a mountain, and Power nap.
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is all about encouraging awareness of oneself in the present moment, without judgment, and with an attitude of kindness and curiosity.
Examples of mindfulness practices include body scans, guided breathing meditations, and other simple exercises, which can help us to refocus on the present and calm our minds.
The beauty of mindfulness is that it can be practiced in many different ways, and can be done anytime, anywhere, no matter what you're doing!
For those who have truly embraced mindfulness, it becomes more than just a part of a routine - it becomes a way of life.
Why practice mindfulness?
Practicing mindfulness can be beneficial for anyone - adults, youth, or children. It can improve our social and emotional well-being, and can help:
- reduce stress, anxiety and depression
- improve memory and concentration
- lead to better sleep
- improve decision-making skills
- strengthen our connection and relationships with others
Hear what youth have to say about mindfulness in this 3-minute video:
Please note: Mindfulness can be beneficial for people who have trauma related disorders. However, practicing mindfulness exercises may cause some people to re-experience traumatic memories. Guidance by a skilled mindfulness instructor is recommended.
Find more resources on mindfulness here.
