7 of the best apps for wellness and balance
LA-based trainer, Kirsty Godso, gives her expert-approved app recommendations that are sure to have you tranquil in no time at all.
She may be leading workouts on Nike’s Training Club app, but New Zealand-born, LA-based trainer Kirsty Godso says mental fitness underpins physical wellbeing. She rounds up the best connect-to-disconnect digital tools for a balanced outlook.
Podcasts
“I’m addicted to podcasts. I’ll listen to them on flights, runs, in the gym, on a walk, or a work commute. There are so many that sometimes it can feel overwhelming but I always try and choose different genres of information, educators and people of inspiration so I’m challenging myself to learn and think in all directions. Some of my absolute favourite podcasts to tune into are: Trained from Nike, Friend of a Friend, Ben Greenfield Fitness — if you really want to deep-dive into all things biohacking, recovery and supplements, this is a great resource — and TED Talks Daily.”
Museum of Peace & Quiet
“In an age of total digital immersion, blue light and electromagnetic frequencies, shutting your body down to sleep can be a difficult and frustrating task. One of my favourite clothing brands in the US, Museum of Peace & Quiet, has its own app filled with different relaxing sounds from rain to waves to birds, which will serenade you to sleep even if you’re the worst of sleepers like me.”
ask Diem
“By women for women, this social platform focused on centring your wellbeing through community and conversation is something I’m super excited about.
A space where you can connect with not only other women but many certified experts across various fields to discuss, learn and laugh about a lot of the stuff that’s going down for women on a daily basis – from bodies to business, cardio, cramps and contracts – that we can’t and don’t freely speak about.”
Audible
“Audiobooks on apps, such as Audible, are a great way to use your down time, cooking time, commute time and even workout time more effectively. I love having a digital library with me wherever I go – you can even share a book to a friend for free. Some of my favourite audiobooks in my library are: Relentless by Tim S. Grover, Principles by Ray Dalio, Start with Why by Simon Sinek, Dare to Lead by Brené Brown and The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor.”
Chess.com and Elevate
“Maybe you’ve watched The Queen’s Gambit, maybe you haven’t, but Chess in 2020 quarantine really became a highlight for many of us. I’ve been using the Chess.com app to take lessons, do puzzles and play friends (and strangers), and I have to say, it’s much more rewarding than spending more aimless time scrolling Instagram. Elevate is another favourite app of mine that trains your brain through various games covering maths, reading, writing, speaking and listening. I know what you’re thinking: ‘I’ve already finished school and/or university, why would I spend my spare time doing this?’ It’s important that we keep sharpening our skills and there is a real confidence in making sure you flex your brain as much as you do your other muscles.”
Spotify
“I couldn’t not put Spotify on my list. Music to me is an absolute saviour. On the best of days, on the worst of days, it can completely change and save your mood.
I love making playlists to share with people to use on many of their daily endeavours. If you’re a hip-hop fan, definitely check out some of my playlists on Spotify under the username kirstygodso.”
This story appears in Vogue Australia’s February issue, on sale now.