Summer is the perfect time to escape from the daily grind and embark on a memorable getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous road trip, or a cultural exploration, proper planning is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. With the iStratus app at your side, organizing and managing your summer getaway becomes a breeze. In this blog post, we will share valuable tips for planning the perfect summer getaway, with a special focus on organization and planning using the iStratus app.

Plan The Perfect Summer Vacation

Define Your Vacation Goals and Budget

Before diving into the planning process, take a moment to define your vacation goals and set a budget. Consider what you hope to achieve during your getaway—relaxation, adventure, exploration, or a combination. Determine the amount you’re willing to spend and allocate it to different categories such as transportation, accommodation, activities, and meals.

Use the iStratus app’s Checklist feature to create a comprehensive checklist of vacation goals and budget allocations. Having these goals and budget parameters clearly defined will guide your decision-making process throughout the planning stage.

Research and Choose Your Destination

Research is key to finding the perfect destination that aligns with your interests and budget. Use travel websites, blogs, and social media platforms to gather information about potential destinations. Consider factors such as climate, activities and attractions, safety, local customs, and accessibility.

The iStratus app’s Files feature allows you to save articles, travel guides, and important documents related to your destination. You can create folders for different destinations and easily access the information whenever needed.

Plan Your Itinerary

Once you’ve selected your destination, start planning your itinerary. Research popular attractions, landmarks, local events, and hidden gems in the area. Prioritize the activities and sights that align with your vacation goals and budget.

The iStratus app’s Task Manager feature is perfect for organizing your itinerary. Create tasks for each day or activity, set reminders and deadlines, and mark them as completed once accomplished. This helps you stay on track and ensures that you make the most of your time during your getaway.

Book Accommodation and Transportation

Secure your accommodation and transportation well in advance to get the best options and deals. Compare prices, read reviews, and consider factors such as location, amenities, and cancellation policies.

Use the iStratus app’s Contacts feature to store contact information for hotels, vacation rentals, airlines, car rental companies, and transportation providers. This way, you have all the necessary details readily available when making reservations or contacting customer support.

Pack Smartly and Efficiently

Make a packing list using the iStratus app’s To-Do List/Checklist feature to ensure you don’t forget any essential items. Consider the climate and activities at your destination to pack appropriate clothing, footwear, and accessories. Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles.

Take advantage of the iStratus app’s Photos feature to snap pictures of important documents like passports, IDs, travel insurance, and reservation confirmations. This ensures you have digital backups readily available in case of any mishaps or emergencies.

Prepare for Safety and Emergencies

Prioritize your safety during your summer getaway. Research local laws and customs, and familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the location of nearby hospitals or clinics.

Create a safety checklist using the iStratus app’s Checklist feature. Include items such as travel insurance, first aid kits, medication, emergency cash, and copies of important documents. Tick off each item as you pack and ensure that you have everything covered for a worry-free vacation.

Stay Organized During Your Trip

During your summer getaway, the iStratus app continues to be a valuable tool for staying organized and keeping track of important details. 

Using the iStratus app during your trip:

• Use the iStratus app’s Notes feature to jot down important information such as addresses, reservation details, and recommendations from locals or fellow travelers.
• Take advantage of the iStratus app’s Task Manager to keep track of activities, excursions, and dining reservations. Set reminders for specific times or locations to ensure you don’t miss out on any planned experiences.
• Utilize the iStratus app’s Contacts feature to store contact information for local tour operators, transportation services, or restaurants. Having this information readily available makes it easy to make reservations or get in touch if needed.
• Capture the memories of your summer getaway using the iStratus app’s Photos feature. Create albums to organize and document your travel experiences, and share them with friends and family when you return.

Be Flexible and Embrace Spontaneity

While planning is crucial, leave room for flexibility and spontaneity during your summer getaway. Allow yourself to discover new experiences, interact with locals, and take advantage of unexpected opportunities that may arise. Use the iStratus app’s flexibility to adapt your plans and make adjustments on the go.

Planning the perfect summer getaway becomes a seamless and organized process with the help of the iStratus app. By incorporating its features into your vacation planning, you can create a comprehensive itinerary, stay organized, and have essential information readily available at your fingertips.

Remember to define your vacation goals and budget, research and choose your destination wisely, and plan your itinerary in advance. Take advantage of the iStratus app’s features such as checklists, task management, contact storage, and photo organization to streamline your planning process and ensure a smooth and enjoyable summer getaway.

With iStratus as your trusty travel companion, you can focus on creating lifelong memories, exploring new destinations, and embracing the adventures that await you during your summer escape.

So start planning, pack your bags, and let iStratus bring order and efficiency to your summer getaway.  Download the iStratus app today!

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of tasks we need to accomplish each day. Whether you’re juggling work responsibilities, personal commitments, or a combination of both, staying organized is essential for managing your time effectively and reducing stress. Fortunately, with the help of a calendar app like iStratus, you can take control of your schedule and stay on top of everything you need to do. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 7 benefits of using a calendar app for organizing your home and work life.

1. Keep Track of Important Dates and Deadlines

One of the primary benefits of using a calendar app is the ability to keep track of important dates and deadlines. Whether it’s a work meeting, a doctor’s appointment, or a family event, a calendar app can help you stay on top of everything you need to do. By entering these dates into your calendar app, you’ll be able to see at a glance what’s coming up and avoid any last-minute surprises.

iStratus takes it one step further by giving you the ability to add checklists and photos to each entry.  These come in handy so you don’t forget important questions to ask during your appointment or if you need to bring proof of identity, residence, or even medical data to the appointment.

2. Sync Your Schedule Across All Devices

Another advantage of using a calendar app is the ability to sync your schedule across all your devices. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can access your calendar and stay up to date with all your appointments and commitments. This is particularly useful if you’re someone who frequently travels or works remotely.

3. Reduce Stress and Improve Productivity

By keeping your schedule organized and up to date, you’ll be able to reduce stress and improve your productivity. Instead of constantly worrying about what you need to do next, you can focus on the task at hand and get things done more efficiently. This can help you feel more in control of your schedule and reduce feelings of overwhelm and burnout.

iStratus has a separate task manager built into the app. Our users find this very helpful in prioritizing their tasks.  And is there anything better than marking something as complete on your to-do list?

4. Set Reminders and Notifications

A calendar app can also help you set reminders and notifications for upcoming events or deadlines. Whether it’s a pop-up notification on your phone or an email reminder, these alerts can help ensure that you don’t forget important appointments or tasks. This is especially helpful if you’re someone who tends to forget things or gets distracted easily.

One of our customers told us she uses it as a final call for her kids.  She shows them the reminder and they know they need to get on their shoes and socks and meet her at the door.

5. Plan Ahead and Make Time for Self-Care

With a calendar app, you can also plan ahead and make time for self-care activities. Whether it’s scheduling a yoga class, a date night with your partner, or a relaxing bath, you can ensure that you’re taking care of yourself and prioritizing your well-being. By making self-care a priority, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of your work and personal life.

6. Share Your Schedule with Others

Another benefit of using a calendar app is the ability to share your schedule with others. This can be particularly useful for families, roommates, or colleagues who need to coordinate schedules or plan events together. By sharing your calendar, you can avoid scheduling conflicts and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Many of our customers share their calendars with their spouses and children and have taught the children to do the same. No more surprise projects the night before they are due.

7. Keep Your Schedule Private and Secure

Finally, a calendar app like iStratus can help you keep your schedule private and secure. With features like password protection and encryption, you can ensure that your sensitive information is kept safe from prying eyes. This can be particularly important if you’re using your calendar app to manage sensitive work information or personal appointments.

A calendar app like iStratus can be a powerful tool for staying organized and on top of your schedule. From keeping track of important dates and deadlines to setting reminders and notifications, a calendar app can help you manage your time more effectively and reduce stress.

So why not give iStratus a try and see how it can help you stay organized and on top of your busy schedule? Download the iStratus app today.

Running a family is hard. You have to juggle the calendar, not just for yourself but also for your spouse and your children as well. You have to plan and cook dinners, arrange for car and house repairs, and let’s not even get started on the medical appointments and weekly shopping. But, with iStratus, you can lighten the load. Using our day planner, task manager, and document manager in the right way, you can organize your family life to run as efficiently as your business life.   

In this article, we will share 8 ways you can use iStratus to keep your family more organized and efficient.

8 Ways To Use Your Calendar To Organize Your Family

1.  Sync family members’ activities

Use our family calendar to sync family members’ activities so everyone knows what’s happening and when. This will not only help you know what is going on but also will help your children understand the power of their calendars and agendas.  If you get them in the habit at a young age, then as they get older and start making plans for themselves they will be able to invite you to events such as school performances and other social activities as they reach their teenage years.

2. Automate reminders for family events

Set up automated reminders for family events, like birthdays and anniversaries, so you never forget them again. Be sure to add them to your spouse’s and children’s apps as well.  This will set them up for success. Remember that the reminder only does you good if you set the reminder early enough to plan.  For example, you might set a reminder to call your mom on her birthday but also set a reminder to order her flowers a week ahead of time. 

3. Keep track of family medical appointments

Use our day planner to keep track of family medical appointments, making sure everyone stays on top of their health. The iStratus’s robust day planner allows you to add a checklist to the event in your calendar. This way you to add a list of questions you have for the doctor or a list of items you need to bring such as intake forms, ID, and insurance card. In addition, you can add photos to the event.  We find this handy when wanting to share the medicines you are currently taking.  Just take a snapshot of the medicines and you have all the information you need right there.

4. Keep up with the household repairs

With iStratus, you can easily stay up-to-date on home repair tasks by creating a task list and setting reminders for when they need to be done. Also, don’t forget to add any service appointments to your calendar with a list of questions you have for the service provider.

5. Keep family finances organized

Use our document manager to store family financial documents securely in one place, and use the task list feature to stay on top of family bills. Because your documents can be encrypted when storing them, it is safe to save all of your financial information in the app.  This way, whether you have an appointment with an accountant or you receive an unexpected call when you are on vacation, you have all of the information at your fingertips.

6. Store family recipes in one place

Create a recipe folder in our document manager so all your family’s favorite recipes are easily accessible to everyone. Also, use the calendar to schedule who will be cooking on which nights.  We have found that you can start this process with your children early.  It may be that the youngest ones only help cook dinner in the beginning. As they get older, they can cook simple recipes by themselves. And finally, when old enough, they can choose any recipe in your folder and prepare it for the family.

7. Store family photos

With our document manager, you can store all family photos securely in one place and easily share them with family members. In addition, you can add this to tasks or calendar events as well.  This will come in handy when trying to recreate certain photos as your children grow.

8. Create a family shopping list

Use our task manager to create shared family grocery lists, making weekly shopping trips a breeze. Best of all you can add the list as a checklist in your calendar link.  That way no matter who is shopping they will have the list available to them.

With iStratus, you can make family planning easy and stress-free.  Start using our day planner, task manager, and document manager to get the family organized today!  Let iStratus help you make family organization a breeze. Organize today for tomorrow’s success! Download the iStratus app today.

How many times have you said, “If I only had an extra hour in the day?” We never seem to have enough time to do the things we want to do. At iStratus, we are a little obsessed with using tools such as task lists, folders, and calendars to add time to our days. In this article, we will share ten time management tips that will change your life and add hours to your days. 

With time management, the key is breaking down your tasks into manageable chunks. One way to do this is by creating a daily to-do list. By writing out a plan for yourself of what needs to be done each day, you can enhance your productivity by giving focus and direction to your time. You may even find it helpful to assign time frames to each task. That way you can know exactly how much time you have allotted for a particular action and better plan accordingly.

Another time management tip is to schedule time for yourself. Just as we schedule time for tasks and errands, it’s just as important to carve out time during the day for rest and relaxation. This time is crucial to help you stay focused and productive.

It’s also important to use technology to your advantage when it comes to time management. Many time management tools are available which allow you to better track and organize tasks, so you can spend less time searching for information and more time completing the task at hand.

10 Time Management Tricks That Will Help You Get More Done In Less Time

1. Live by your to-do list

Successful people live by their to-do lists.  By creating a to-do list at the beginning of the day, they are intentional about what they have to accomplish throughout the day. If you want to get more done in less time, start with a to-do list.  Make a to-do list every morning and refer back to it throughout the day. In iStratus, your task list is built right in. 

2. Eliminate things from your to-do list

When you look at the list, consider what on there absolutely has to be done.  Is it something you could take off your list altogether? If so, eliminate it. Understanding that not every task is important is a big reason successful people get so much done. They are able to focus on what must happen instead of focusing on less important tasks.

3. Automate items on your list

Automation is more and more prevalent today.  Are there tasks that can be automated and removed from your list not just today but in the future as well?  Examples of tasks you may be able to automate are reminders about upcoming deadlines or thank-you notes for events.  Automating these tasks will save time, increase efficiency and reduce stress.

4. Delegate

This is probably the time management tip people skip most often.  Delegating is difficult for most people because they have to let go of control.  But when you look at the tasks on your lists, are some of them below your pay grade?  Chances are there are several that are. Which tasks can you ask someone else to handle? Maybe it’s as simple as asking one of your children to take the trash out each week or having your spouse do the grocery shopping.  If you are a business owner, maybe it’s time to hire a bookkeeper or someone who handles your marketing.  Delegation multiplies the time you have to do things.

5. Breakdown into smaller sections

Sometimes, your to-do list can be overwhelming.  That’s why we encourage you to break down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks.    That way, you can focus on one small chunk at a time and get it done.  It’s much easier to finish the task when it’s broken down into smaller sections.

6. Take breaks

No matter how time-crunched you are, it’s important to take periodic breaks throughout the day. Taking small breaks helps you to re-energize and refocus when you feel overwhelmed.  This can help increase productivity and time management. One way to make the most of a break is to use these small breaks to go outside and walk throughout the day.  It gives you the opportunity to free up your mind and get your steps in at the same time.

7. Set deadlines

Having deadlines is important to time management success.  Setting deadlines helps you stay on track and motivates you to get things done.  Plus, it forces you to prioritize and focus on the tasks that need your attention.  In iStratus, you can set deadlines for yourself, or even assign tasks to others with deadlines in mind.

8. Block out distractions

This time management tip is essential in today’s world.  With the internet and social media, it is easy to get sidetracked by constant notifications and messages.  Set time limits for yourself on social media and time-consuming tasks.  Make sure to turn notifications off during the time you are trying to work on a task.  This will help you stay focused and get more done in less time.

9. Schedule time for yourself and your personal needs

We often forget to factor time for ourselves into our time management plan.  We get so busy with our tasks that we don’t leave any time for ourselves.  Schedule time each day when you can do something just for yourself, whether it’s yoga or taking a walk, or reading a book.  It’s important to take time for yourself each day, as it will help you stay motivated and productive in the long run.

10. Review your progress

Finally, it’s important to review your time management plan each day.  Take a few minutes at the end of the day to assess what went right, what went wrong, and what can be improved upon.  This will help you identify time management traps and make time for those tasks that often get forgotten.

By following these time management tips, you will be able to add hours to your day and make the most of the time available.  With improved time management comes increased productivity and a better quality of life.  So, what are you waiting for? Try these time management tips and see for yourself the difference they can make in your life.  With time, energy, and focus, you will be able to live your best life.  

Let time management be the key that unlocks your potential.  You can do it! Download the iStratus app today!

As the year comes to a close and we start considering the new year, it’s a good time to consider implementing new habits. In this article, we will discuss 25 healthy habits to track in the New Year. Tracking your progress can be a helpful way to stay motivated and on track.

Here Are 25 Healthy Habits To Track In The New Year

1) Exercise

Whether you’re aiming to increase the frequency or intensity of your workouts, tracking your progress can help you stay on track. In addition, tracking will help you see what improvements you have made in your chosen exercise.

2) Sleep

In the past ten years, study after study has shown that sleep is underrated.  Getting enough quality sleep is essential for good health. Tracking how much sleep you’re getting each night can help you ensure you’re getting the rest you need. And if you aren’t, it can help you see the pattern you might be able to improve to get better quality sleep

3) Water intake

Staying hydrated is important for overall health and well-being. Tracking your water intake can help you make sure you’re drinking enough water each day.

4) Fruit and vegetable intake

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is important for good health. Tracking your intake can help you ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need. You may also find it helpful to track the types of fruits and vegetables you are eating and consider adding a wider variety to your diet.

5) Weight

Whether you are trying to lose, gain or maintain your weight, tracking your weight can help you monitor your health and fitness progress.

6) Body fat percentage

Tracking your body fat percentage may help you monitor your fitness progress and ensure you’re losing fat, not muscle. This one has become a bit controversial in the past several years.  Consult your doctor if you are unsure.

7) Waist circumference

Tracking your waist circumference can help you monitor your risk for obesity-related health conditions.

8) Blood pressure

Tracking your blood pressure can help you monitor your cardiovascular health.

9) Glucose levels

Tracking your blood sugar levels can help you manage diabetes or prediabetes. The number of people who have diabetes without being aware is rising every year. Knowing your risk is a great first step toward avoiding diabetes.

10) Cholesterol levels

Tracking your cholesterol levels can help you monitor your cardiovascular health and risk for heart disease.

11) Steps taken

Tracking the number of steps you take each day can help you increase your physical activity level. It is amazing how a whole day can go by without standing up from your desk.  Use a step counter to make sure you are getting enough movement throughout your day.

12) Calories consumed

Tracking the calories you consume each day can help you monitor your diet and ensure you’re not eating too much. Most people are surprised to find how many calories they consume in a day.

13) Protein intake

Tracking your protein intake can help you ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient.

14) Carbohydrate intake

Tracking your carbohydrate intake can help you monitor your diet and blood sugar levels.

15) Fiber intake

Tracking your fiber intake can help you ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient. Eating more fiber leads to health benefits.

16) Fat intake

Tracking your fat intake can help you monitor your diet and ensure you’re not eating too much.

17) Alcohol consumption

Tracking your alcohol can help you monitor your drinking and ensure you’re not over-consuming.

18) Caffeine consumption

Tracking your caffeine consumption can help you monitor your intake and ensure you’re not drinking too much. Too much caffeine may cause health problems, such as restlessness and shakiness, insomnia, headaches, and other symptoms.

19) Smoking

Tracking your smoking can help you monitor your habit and track your progress if you’re trying to quit.

20) Stress levels

Tracking your stress levels can help you identify when you’re feeling overwhelmed. By identifying these stressors, you will be able to find ways to manage or cope better.

21) Mood

Tracking your mood can help you identify mood patterns and help you find ways to improve your emotional well-being.

22) Productivity

Tracking your productivity can help you identify when you’re most productive and help you find ways to increase your productivity during those certain hours of the day.

23) Social interaction

Tracking your social interaction can help you identify when you’re feeling lonely and help you find ways to connect with others. After COVID, many people are still trying to find ways to reconnect socially.  Tracking may help.

24) Hobbies

Tracking your hobbies can help you find balance in your life and ensure you’re making time for things you enjoy.

25) Goals

Tracking your goals can help you stay on track and actually achieve them. 

These 25 goals are a lot of things to track but iStratus makes it easy with our customizable checklists.  Download the app today.

If you’re like most Americans, you’re probably setting some health and fitness goals for the new year. But a goal without a plan is just a wish. So, let’s work on a plan.

10 Steps To Take Toward A Healthier You In 2023

1) Set SMART goals

Reaching a goal starts with making SMART goals.  A smart goal is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.  Vague goals like “I want to be healthy” are much harder to achieve than something like “I will walk for 30 minutes every day.”

2) Make a commitment

Part of making any goal is committing to seeing it through.  This means being willing to put in the work, even when you don’t feel like it.  When it comes to health, this might mean getting up for a workout when you’re tired or choosing healthy foods even when you’re craving something else.

Part of committing is understanding why you are making the commitment.  What are your motivations for wanting to be healthier? When you have a clear understanding of why you want to make a change, it will be easier to stick with it.

3) Make a plan

Once you know what your goals are, make a detailed plan of how you’re going to achieve them. Include specific steps, deadlines, and who will be helping you along the way. For example, if your goal is to run a 5k, find a training program and map out when you will run each week. Look for a specific couch to 5k program you can follow or better yet, join a running group that has the same goal.  Check your local community center or your local running club to find a program near you.

4) Get support

Health and fitness goals are easier to achieve when you have the support of family and friends. So, tell your loved ones what you’re working toward and ask for their help. Help them understand why it’s important to you and let them know exactly how they can help you achieve your goals.

5) Find an accountability partner

Having someone to keep you accountable can be a great motivator. Find a friend or family member who will check in with you regularly and help you stay on track. And do the same thing for them.  Consider doing some of your workouts together.  It’s much harder to skip a workout if you know your accountability partner is waiting for you.

6) Set up your environment for success

Take a look at your home and work environment and make sure they’re set up in a way that supports your health and fitness goals. For example, if you’re trying to eat healthier, make sure your kitchen is stocked with healthy food options. If you want to work out more but know the weather could be a problem, consider buying a treadmill or getting a gym membership.

7) Establish healthy habits

Forming new, healthy habits is key to reaching your health and fitness goals. So, start by identifying one or two health behaviors you want to change and focus on making those changes. Do you need to drink more water, eat less sugar, or take more steps?  Which of these is most important to you?  Remember not to try to do everything at once.

8) Be patient and persevere

Remember that lasting health and fitness changes take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep working hard and stay focused on your goals. There will inevitably be setbacks along the way. But don’t let them derail your entire plan. Get back on track as soon as possible and keep moving toward your goals. Remembering why you are working so hard will help you shake off the setbacks and move forward.  You may even find you can double down on your efforts because you see how easy it is to begin again.

9) Reward yourself

Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. This will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Give yourself small rewards for meeting the smaller goals but also create a big reward for achieving your ultimate goal.  If your goal is to run the NYC marathon next year, reward yourself with a few extra days in the city or tickets to a show.  Make it something you might not otherwise do so it acts as the carrot to your goal.

10) Get professional help

If you’re having trouble reaching your health and fitness goals on your own, don’t hesitate to get professional help. A certified health coach or personal trainer can give you the guidance and support you need to reach your goals.

The iStratus app is a great place to keep track of your goals and your achievements.  Download the app today.

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people. From family gatherings to financial pressures, there are plenty of things that can cause anxiety and stress.

But there is one thing that can help you avoid some of the holiday stressors: technology.

From apps that help you stay organized to ones that provide on-demand mental health support, there are plenty of ways that technology can help you during the holidays.

Apps That Help Your Mental Health

Reduce The Chaos

Apps like iStratus can help you get a grip on the chaos.  Use it to keep track of your schedule and to-do lists. This can help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed by all that you have to do.

Still Your Mind

Use a meditation app like Headspace or Calm to help you relax and de-stress. Taking just 10 minutes out of your day to meditate can make a big difference in how you feel.

Track Your Mood

Using a tracking app like Moodscope or P Tracker to track your moods throughout the holiday season can help you identify stressors and figure out ways to avoid them. Don’t forget to make a note about what was happening at the time of your mood.  Were you in a great mood because you had just finished a run or were you feeling insecure because you were spending time with a certain person?  Tracking your mood can help you uncover your more dangerous triggers.

Just Breathe

Use an app like Breathe2Relax to help you control your breathing and anxiety levels. This can be a great tool when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Don’t stress that you can’t still your mind.  You don’t have to.  All you have to do is breathe.

Seek Professional Help

One of the best things to come from technology in the past couple of years is apps like TalkSpace or BetterHelp where you can get on-demand mental health support. If you’re really struggling, these apps can put you in touch with a therapist who can help.

How Are You Sleeping?

Getting enough sleep is so important for your mental health. The Sleep Cycle or Pillow apps can help you to track your sleep and get better quality rest. This is important all year long but especially when trying to maintain your mental health during a stressful time.

Sweat It Out

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood and not a bad excuse for getting away from the people and situations that are causing your stress. MyFitnessPal or Fitbit will help you to track your physical activity and make sure you’re getting enough exercise.

Diet Plays A Role In Mental Health

Eating healthy can help improve your mood and reduce stress levels. Use an app like Fooducate or HealthyOut to make healthier food choices. You may find that small changes go a long way toward helping you feel calmer.

Nothing Beats A Good Book

Sometimes all you need is some quiet time on your own. Use an app like Goodreads or Pocket to find books that can help you relax and escape from the stress of the season.

Sing Along

Use Pandora or Spotify to help you create holiday-themed playlists full of festive music. Listening to uplifting music can help improve your mood and reduce stress.

Discover Your Creative Side

Sometimes all you need is a few minutes to stop focusing on the stress of the day. Use an app like Color Therapy or Pigment to color and de-stress. This can be a great way to take a break from all the holiday preparations and relax for a few minutes.

Remember Why You Work So Hard

Use an app like 1 Second Everyday or Timehop to create video montages of past holidays. This can help you remember all the good times you’ve had and appreciate the present moment.

Create New Habits

Fabulous or Streaks are apps that help to develop positive habits that can help reduce stress. This can be anything from taking a few minutes each day to meditate or journaling about your stressors.

Harness The Power Of Gratitude

We love the Gratitude Journal or Happify apps.  These apps help you to focus on the positive things in your life. This can help shift your mindset and reduce stress levels.

Back To Breathing

We know we mentioned taking a breath earlier but honestly, it cannot be overstated.  We also love Breathing Space or Stop, Breathe & Think to find quick and easy stress-relief exercises. These can be great to do when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out.

Creating A Calming Playlist

Two more meditation apps that are loved are Calm or Relax Melodies to create custom relaxation sounds and sleep preludes. This can help you fall asleep easier and get better quality rest.

Be Understood

Not being understood can add a whole new level of stress.  Using apps like Google Translate or iTranslate to help you communicate with family and friends who speak different languages can help reduce stress and facilitate communication.

Connect With People You Love

Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime are great apps to help you stay connected with loved ones who live far away. This can help you feel less alone during the holiday season.

Coordinate Your Plans

Use an app like Cozi or Life360 to coordinate holiday plans with your family and friends. This can help you avoid stress and stay organized.

We do believe that apps are a great way to help boost your mental health but keep in mind that sometimes apps don’t work to solve what is happening in your life. Sometimes you need more help.  That’s okay.  If you are experiencing unusual levels of stress and anxiety, ask for help.  A therapist, warmline, or suicide prevention hotline can help.