Here is a guide to mindfulness apps, including those suitable for neurodivergent users, people with chronic illness, or sensory sensitivity, and those managing anxiety, trauma, or fatigue. Each app is evaluated for sensory load, structure, accessibility, and style.
| App | Best For | Sensory Load | Structure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smiling Mind (AU-based, free) | Kids, teens, adults, ND-friendly | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Structured programs by age/group | Developed by psychologists. Simple, clear interface. Great for schools and chronic illness pacing. |
| Insight Timer | Variety & depth | ⚠️ Variable | ⚠️ Mixed – lots of content | Huge library, but can be overwhelming. Filter for trauma-sensitive or gentle options. |
| Ten Percent Happier | Skeptics, trauma-aware adults | 🟡 Moderate | 🟢 Clear courses | Focus on mindful resilience, includes trauma-informed teachers (e.g., David Treleaven). Subscription required. |
| Aura | Quick, personalised practice | 🟡 Moderate | ⚠️ AI-curated | Short daily tracks. Can filter mood, but some sessions may be too stimulating. |
| Headspace | Beginners, visual learners | 🟠 Higher | 🟢 Highly structured | Popular, easy to follow. Animation-heavy. May be sensory-rich for some. |
| Calm | Sleep, anxiety, families | 🟠 Higher | 🟢 Guided paths | Beautiful design, good for sleep stories. Can be overstimulating for hypersensitive users. |
| Oak | Simplicity, privacy | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Minimalist | Free, ad-free. Breath, meditation, and sleep support without clutter. Good for ME/CFS or fatigue. |
| MyLife Meditation (formerly Stop, Breathe & Think) | Teens, emotional check-ins | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Customisable | Daily mood-based suggestions. Great for ND or burnout recovery. Some features now behind paywall. |
| Balance | Personalised voice-led practice | 🟡 Moderate | 🟢 Modular learning | Offers free subscription for the first year. Clean interface. Some voices more calming than others. |
Recommended for Neurodivergent or Sensory-Sensitive Users
- Smiling Mind – free, clear, gentle
- Oak – minimalist, no frills
- MyLife Meditation – mood-based guidance
- Insight Timer (with filters) – trauma-informed content is available
Recommended for Trauma-Informed Practice
- Ten Percent Happier – includes teachers like David Treleaven
- Insight Timer – search for trauma-aware, polyvagal-informed guides
- MyLife Meditation – daily emotion tracking can help with dissociation awareness
Free or Low-Cost Options
| App | Cost |
|---|---|
| Smiling Mind | ✅ Free |
| Oak | ✅ Free |
| Insight Timer | ✅ Free tier |
| MyLife | ✅ Free tier |
| Balance | ✅ Free 1-year trial (check promo) |
Disclaimer
This guide was compiled with the help of ChatGPT and feedback from users with chronic illness, neurodivergence, MCAS, anxiety, trauma, and sensory processing differences. Individual responses may vary—always test new apps gently and avoid overstimulation during recovery or fatigue states.
