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8 mobile apps to help you shake stress

When the stresses of life are getting you down, relief is just an app away. With so many to choose from these caught our eye. Here are eight apps to help you cope with stress.

5-minute headache relief

Stress is one of the main triggers of tension headaches. The 5-minute headache relief mobile app could be an effective tool to help people who suffer from headaches. This android app guides users through four steps that help release tension in the neck.

Breathe well

An app called MyCalmBeat uses a heart rate monitor which is attached to one’s ear to detect optimal breathing rates. Each person's optimal breathing rate is unique. At the ideal breathing rate the company says users can increase the variability of their heart rate to lower stress levels. After finding their ideal breathing rate, animated exercises show users how to breathe at the optimal rate, while the heart rate monitor provides feedback. This app is available for iPhone, Blackberry and Android.

Music is healing

According to stress.about.com research has shown that music has a positive effect on one’s body and psyche. The Music Healing app might just be what you need when you find yourself in a stressful situation and need to get away and relax. The iPhone app features soothing pieces of music and beautiful imagery that fades in and out, providing a virtual escape.

Check your stress

Just how stressed are you? You can measure your stress levels with the Stress Check app. The iPhone app will show you if you are stressed and the percentage of stress you are experiencing at any given moment. While you keep your index finger on the flash for two minutes the app measures the blood flow through your finger. The measurement draws up patterns that display high-stress hormones.

Deep relaxation

21st century living is fast-paced and rushed and we all need to slow down, relax and unwind, especially after a hectic day of 'shuffling'. The Deep Relaxation iPhone app can be the perfect tool to help you unwind and de-stress. It teaches relaxation techniques which can help control pain, insomnia, PTSD and other stress symptoms.

Pocket full of happiness

Research shows that laughter is still the best medicine. If you're in need of a quick mood fix every now and then, the Happiness app might be what the doctor ordered. The idea is that if we see a smile or hear laughter and experience a relaxing situation, it will lead to greater happiness and joy.  The iPhone app offers different forms of laughter, comforting background sceneries and relaxing sound.

Anti-stress quotes

Stress is a part of everyday life. We all have our moments when we are overcome with worry and anxiety. This iPhone app gives many wise quotes from influential men and women on the topic of stress. Their insights and wisdom could help you manage your stress and enjoy a happier life. You can also email quotes and share the wisdom with family and friends.

Yoga in your pocket

Yoga is well-known for its stress-relieving ability. You can have a personal instructor with you wherever you go with the Pocket Yoga app. With the android app you can set up a schedule and choose between different practices, difficulty levels and durations. The user is guided by detailed voice and visual guides. 

(Leandra Engelbrecht, Health24, October 2011)

(Sources: Health24.com, itunes.apple.com)

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