Our Editors’ 10 Favorite Products to Start Your Meditation Journey
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With so much going on in the world right now, we could all use something to help us feel calmer. Thankfully,
Meditation is a technique that’s been used for thousands of years to develop awareness of the present moment. It can involve practices to sharpen focus and attention, connect the body and breath, develop acceptance of difficult emotions, and even alter consciousness.
It can feel daunting to start meditating. It can be hard to sift through all the different tools and devices that are out there to find the right one for your meditation journey.
We asked our editors who meditate what helps them connect with their bodies and minds. They have recommendations to get you started.
Pricing guide
- $ = under $25
- $$ = $25–$75
- $$$ = over $75
Manduka Eko Yoga Mat 5mm
- Price: $$$
The yoga mat is not too firm. It makes me feel supported and safe when I practice deep breathing.
It comes in different color options and is also eco-friendly and biodegradable, so I feel like I’m taking care of the Earth in a small way when I meditate on it.” — Christy Snyder, editor II, Healthline
Julianne Aiello Yoga Daily Practice
- Price: free–$$$
I have practiced yoga with Julie Aiello at her company outdoor yoga SF on the beach of San Francisco. I have friends who have gone on yoga retreats with her. It helped them feel like they were in control of their lives.
“Based on those experiences, I highly recommend her meditation group. But it’s really about any group you can join or create, if a sense of accountability, community, or live guidance is what helps you with meditating.” — Candice Abellon, senior editor, Healthline
Restore Charcoal and Tonka Scented Candle
- Price: $
I like to use specific scents or tools for when I am meditating or relaxing. It means to my brain that it is time to wind down or disengage.
“I light this candle when I’m meditating, and it’s a pretty scent (charcoal and tonka) that isn’t too overwhelming.” — Melissa Lee, editor I, Healthline
Peloton Meditation
- Price: free trial, $ per month
I used to be a person who could just sit and do nothing, but using Peloton Meditation has made me a better person. I tried a meditation program called Peloton in the middle of a movement challenge.
“Chelsea Jackson Roberts, my favorite meditation coach, helps me really tune out the noise and focus on an intention. It helps that the music she uses and her voice are both so soothing. The 10-minute Sleep Meditation is a personal fave for my nightly wind-down.” — Anne Arntson, senior copy editor, Healthline
Plant Therapy Lavender Pre-Diluted Essential Oil Roll-On
- Price: $
“The research behind essential oils is complicated, but what a lot of researchers have found is that there’s definitely a
“This lavender essential oil roll-on helps clear my mind and allows me to sink deeper into my meditation. I just roll it onto my neck and wrists and breathe deeply. It’s also great for anyone who might have pets that are sensitive to essential oils, because it won’t diffuse the scent throughout the room.” — Jen Anderson, copy editor, Healthline
Retrospec Sedona Meditation Cushion
- Price: $
The meditation cushion is a practical tool that helps prevent my legs from falling asleep. Suddenly going numb is more distracting than meditating.
I like this one because it’s affordable and the sea glass color is my jam.” — Crystal Hoshaw, special projects editor, Healthline
BlueRidgeBrands Teak Meditation Bench
- Price: $$
A meditation bench is a great option for those who need an alternative to sitting cross-legged. This allows you to sit in a hero pose without putting stress on your knees.
I prefer the teak folding version because it’s high quality wood and easy to store.” — Hoshaw
Offgrid Mindfulness Awake Meditation Timer & Clock
- Price: $$
I like this little clock as my alarm clock and meditation timer. It has two bell options, a single-chime and multi-chime, which are both calm and soothing.
It also has a timer setting so you can sit in meditation and conclude with the bell sound. There’s also a ‘screen hide’ setting so you don’t peek!” — Hoshaw
Wise@Work
- Price: free
The Wise@Work app has helped me to build coreMindfulness muscles and integrate it into my work rhythms.
“They have practices specifically categorized by key meditation fundamentals (in learning series), mood, and work scenarios. This has also supported my work-life balance over the last 4 years.” — Anthony Machi, senior associate, Medical News Today
Calm
- Price: free trial
The Radical Self- Care series created by Lama Rod Owens on the Calm app has been healing for me.
Lama Rod’s vulnerability and wisdom in this series has supported me in being present with my natural body, breath, and mind — and embracing myself there. I really have loved this series and practice it often.” — Machi
