Headspace Review: What I Really Think of the App

When you hear the word “meditation,” what comes to mind? If you’re like most people, you might envision someone sitting cross-legged on the floor, hands resting on their knees, palms facing up. Perhaps you think of words like chi, chakras, or center. Or maybe you think of a specific religious tradition. Whatever you associate with meditation, I’m going to go out on a limb and say it’s probably not the full story. 

Headspace is one of the more popular mindfulness apps on the market, and they do a ton of advertising, so my guess is that you’ve heard of them. But have you wondered if Headspace is worth the hype? Today, I’m sharing my unbiased and unsolicited review of the app. Simply put, I am in no way affiliated with Headspace, and they aren’t paying me to write this.

Check out the video for my full Headspace review, including my favorite feature, as well as what really got me hooked. Plus, I’m giving you a sneak peak into a super awesome giveaway coming up on Dr. Allison Answers!

While I use and recommend several mindfulness and meditation apps, Headspace is the app I recommend most for people just getting started. I love that Headspace works from the lens of mindfulness training, as opposed to just meditation. They say it best in their promo video. “It’s like a gym membership for your mind.”

Additionally, Headspace focuses on the science. If you would’ve told me ten years ago that I’d be a believer, a practitioner, and a teacher of mindfulness, I would’ve said no way. But then I saw the science. And it’s too incredible to pass up. If you’re a skeptic, take time to look through their page on the science of meditation.

Their “take 10” program is perfect for beginners. This free, 10-day training program, really helps you make meditation a habit. This feature is what makes my Headspace review so glowing. For most people, mindfulness is a new skill, which means education is important. Headspace walks you through the basics, teaching you everything you need to know. Additionally, they stay with you for ten days, helping you work out the beginner kinks, eventually settling into a place of greater comfort.

There is, however, one big thing I wish Headspace did differently. I wish they did a basic intro video on mindful breathing. Even though breathing might seem basic, it’s actually a little bit more nuanced, especially when we’re trying to slow down and notice our experience. Luckily, if you’re regular Dr. Allison Answers reader, you don’t need Headspace to do that, because I’ve got you covered! My video on mindful breathing continues to be one of my most popular videos. And for good reason; mindful breathing is super helpful!

Clearly, you can see from my Headspace review, I’m a big fan. If you’ve been considering meditation or want a way to step up your meditation game, definitely give it a try. Thousands of other people, most of whom started out without an ounce of meditation experience, are now regular practitioners of mindfulness, thanks to that little orange circle!

Have you tried Headspace? What did you think? If you’re skeptical about meditation, what’s tripping you up? I’d love to hear!

Lastly, don’t forget to set a reminder to tune into next week’s video, so you don’t miss the exciting giveaway! It’s a gift from me to you, my way of saying thanks for being a part of this special community.