Cold Plunge

BEST OVERALL

N95 Face Mask (30 Pack) | NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

These N95 masks from BENEHAL are NIOSH-approved for 95% filter efficiency and come individually wrapped so they’re extra sanitary and convenient for daily use. The masks are made with an electrostatic fabric that is rigid enough to create extra breathing room and minimize breathing resistance. The cup shape provides a protective seal and the double head straps keep the mask on without pulling on ear flaps. There’s also a small strip of foam under the nose bridge for comfort and a dependable seal. 

BEST FOR GLASSES

3M Aura Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95 (240 ea/Case)

Four-eyed friends, this mask is designed specifically for you. Its curved profile provides space for your eyewear and directs exhaled air away from the nose panel. 

Who It’s For: Mask wearers who can’t stand when their glasses fog up.

Why We Chose It: No one should experience the scourge of foggy glasses. 

When to Wear It: Whenever you’ve got your glasses on.

BEST FOR WATER RESISTANCE

N95 Face Mask, Black (50 Pack) | NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator, 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

This mask provides at least 95% filtration efficiency and is comfortable to wear thanks to its adjustable nose clip and high elastic ear loops. It’s also water-resistant and comes in packs of 50. 

Who It’s For: Anyone whose mask might get wet. 

Why We Chose It: A mask isn’t doing its job if it’s soggy and falling apart. 

When to Wear It: If you’re going to come into contact with liquids.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY PICK

WellBefore Individually-Wrapped KN95 Face Masks

Normally, skimping on something medical results in something less effective. That’s not true with WellBefore’s affordable masks. Their masks are great for bulk purchases but are still approved by China’s NIOSH-equivalent agency.  This mask comes with ear loops, adjustable ear straps, or behind-the-head straps so the fit can be customized.  

Who It’s For: Anyone who wants the ability to customize their facial covering.

Why We Chose It: It’s from a trusted brand and is also inexpensive — around $1 per mask.

When to Wear It: Indoors or outdoors. It’s a general-use mask.

BEST FOR ROUND FACES

WellBefore 3D (KF94 Style) KN95 Mask – With & Without Adjustable Ear Loops

Another mask from WellBefore, this one comes with an adjustable noseband and is designed to better fit the shape of rounded faces. Its rounded style also provides more room for breathing.

Who It’s For: Anyone who struggles to find a mask that fits properly. 

Why We Chose It: It’s from a trusted brand and is even less expensive than the individually wrapped mask above — around $.70 per mask.

When to Wear It: Anytime you need protection from infection

BEST N99 MASK

WellBefore N99 Respirator Mask – NIOSH Approved

This mask is NIOSH approved for filtering out 99% of airborne particles (to qualify as an N95, a mask only has to filter out at least 95% of particles), and it has four layers of non-woven fabric that’s skin-friendly.

Who It’s For: Anyone whose face may be sensitive to the fabrics used by other mask manufacturers. 

Why We Chose It: Especially if you’re wearing a mask for hours on end, your skin may start to rebel. 

When to Wear It: Whenever you need skin-friendly fabric. 

OUR TOP PICK

BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test

This BinaxNOW test is similar to the one above but doesn’t require you to use the trained proctor and doesn’t come with an app for sending along the results. The wait is quick though, only 15 minutes, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and comes with two sets of testing equipment (swabs, dropper bottles, test cards). 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs a quick, relatively straightforward test.
Why We Chose It: It’s widely used and comes with clear instructions. 
There’s More: This test (and the others) may be FSA/HSA eligible.

BEST FOR QUICK RESULTS

On/Go COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test Kit with Test-to-Treat App

If you need to know now whether you’re positive or not, the aptly named On/Go is your test. It delivers results in around 10 minutes, about five minutes faster than other tests on the market. It also comes with illustrated instructions, but be prepared for aggressively small fonts. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs results quickly or is testing people en masse (think: a group weekend getaway). 

Why We Chose It: You have better uses for your time than waiting around for results.

There’s More: On/Go also has a companion mobile phone app.

EASIEST TO ADMINISTER

InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test

If you last touched a test tube in high school chemistry class and would like to keep it that way, you want the InteliSwab COVID-19 test. It only requires you to open the tube, swab your nose, and then insert the tube into the testing vial — no mixing required. 

Who It’s For: People who struggle with dexterity or otherwise want a mechanically simple process to follow. 

Why We Chose It: The more steps you add to the process, the more room for error. 

There’s More: You can use the InteliSwab on anyone who’s two years or older.

MOST AFFORDABLE

iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test

At $18 for two testing kits, iHealth is one of the cheapest at-home kits on the market but still provides reliable results and comes with relatively straightforward instructions. It also comes with an app to help you manage a small group’s results. 

Who It’s For: People who are looking for a good deal or need to buy tests for a large number of people. 

Why We Chose It: It’s accurate, simple, and won’t break the bank.  

There’s More: The FDA has extended the shelf life for iHealth tests from 6 months to 15 months, so they can be purchased in bulk without concern they’ll expire too quickly. 

OUR TOP PICK

WellBefore Kids KN95

This mask has all of the characteristics of a high-quality facial covering. For starters, it offers one of the highest levels of protection. “In general, the N95 mask and KN95 mask are considered superior to standard masks because they’re designed to fit snugly on the face, leaving only minimal gaps that can allow air to bypass the mask,” said Dr. Karcher. 

Next, it comes individually wrapped to ensure sterility, has adjustable ear loops and a nose piece to ensure that it fits comfortably, and is made of multiple layers of synthetic fabric. The mask comes in three different sizes: extra-small (ages 2-4), small (ages 5-8), and regular (ages 9-12). It also has colors and patterns that kids will like, including pink camo and forest green.  

To help figure out fit, the company’s website has a sizing chart and guidelines on how to measure a child’s face. The masks are also relatively cheap (about $1 per mask), can be ordered through a “subscribe and save” feature at different cadences (two weeks, four weeks, and size weeks), and can also be ordered in bulk.

THE BEST KN95

Blue Bear LL95 Face Mask

KN95 and KF94 masks offer very similar levels of protection, and this KF94 also offers a slightly different look and feel for the mask using a foldable “boat” design. In addition, the KM Corp. website has easy-to-follow instructions (with pictures!) on how to wear the mask correctly. Just make sure that you choose the “small” size when shopping for children. 

Who It’s For: Kids who want to try a different style of mask and enjoy the same high level of protection. 
Why We Chose It: KF94s offer similar protection levels as N95s and KN95s. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you’re at high risk of becoming infected.

THE BEST KF94

Dr. Puri KF94 3D White Mask

KN95 and KF94 masks offer very similar levels of protection, and this KF94 also offers a slightly different look and feel for the mask using a foldable “boat” design. In addition, the KM Corp. website has easy-to-follow instructions (with pictures!) on how to wear the mask correctly. Just make sure that you choose the “small” size when shopping for children. 

Who It’s For: Kids who want to try a different style of mask and enjoy the same high level of protection. 
Why We Chose It: KF94s offer similar protection levels as N95s and KN95s. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you’re at high risk of becoming infected.

BEST FAMILY OPTION

BOTN KF94 Protective Safety Face Mask, Youth Fit (10 Pcs)

The BOTN mask comes in four sizes: extra large (for adult men), large (adult women), medium (teens and tweens), and small (kids under 8), this makes it a great choice for families buying their masks in bulk. This company also offers a sizing chart so everyone can get fitted correctly and the family only needs to place one order. 

Who It’s For: Families with a wide range of face sizes. 
Why We Chose It: BOTN is a one-stop shop for masks. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a general purpose, protective mask. 

BEST COLORS AND PATTERNS

Vida Kids' Masks with KN95 Protection

Even adults acknowledge that wearing a mask, especially for long periods of time, is a drag. Vida is trying to make the experience a bit more fun with colors like birthday cake, popsicle, and blueberry punch. Don’t worry: the KN95s still provide between 95 and 99% filtration. 

Who It’s For: Kids that want a little zaniness in their masks.
Why We Chose It: The COVID pandemic is serious, but the mask patterns don’t have to be. 
When to Wear It: If you need significant protection.

MOST COMFORTABLE

Smaller or Children's Sized Powecom® KN95-SM Respirator

This mask is the same as the FDA-approved adult Powecom mask, but it’s about 15% smaller. It’s made of synthetic material, has a flexible nose wire and latex-free ear loops, and gives a comfortable, all-day fit. 

Who It’s For: Kids who say that other respirators don’t fit. 
Why We Chose It: It gives great protection and is easier on the ears and face. 
When to Wear It: If you need to wear a mask for hours on end.

BEST FOR SMALL CHILDREN

AireTrust Nano Mask for Kids

Adjustable ear loops are essential for getting a mask snugly on the face of a smaller child, and that’s exactly what AireTrust offers. The mask is also supported by nanotechnology developed at Stanford University to filter microscopic airborne particles and PM2.5 hazards including wildfire smoke and other air pollutants. Each mask also weighs just 0.3 ounces. 

Who It’s For: Kids around 9 years and younger.  
Why We Chose It: Customizing the ear loops is a great way to improve the fit. 
When to Wear It: When you need a long-lasting, easy-to-wear mask.

BEST OVERALL

The MISSAA KN95 Face Masks

The MISSAA KN95 is one of the most well-made, protective face masks available to purchase online. It has an adjustable nose clip for a comfortable and snug fit on the face, and the soft elastic loops reduce friction on the ears. Because the mask protrudes from the face, a “bird beak” design, there’s plenty of room to breathe and the inner layer of the mask uses materials to absorb the moisture generated from exhalations.

The MISSAA mask can be used indoors and outdoors, is lightweight and easy to fold, and has reinforced seams so they’re durable and ideal for all-day activities. In terms of protection, this KN95 also relies on five layers of non-woven fabric, two layers of melt-blown cloth, and one layer of hot air cotton. 

When asked about this mask in particular, Dr. Choudhury explained that this is a great selection for comfort and protection, but that no respirator is ideal for absolutely everyone.“The best mask really depends on the preferences and characteristics of the individual person wearing it.” 

BEST INDIVIDUALLY-WRAPPED

OPECTICID KN95 Face Mask 60 PCS

Individually-wrapped masks are great to have on hand in a suitcase, backpack, or car console. These OPECTICID masks can be tightened via double-looped ear straps. 

Who It’s For: Folks who need an individually wrapped mask that they can take with them or pass out to others. 
Why We Chose It: It has a filtration rate of at least 95% while also being convenient and easy to throw in a purse, briefcase, backpack, or gym bag. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a mask on-hand.

BEST FOR FAMILIES

BOTN 10Pcs Large White KF94 Protective and Safety Face Mask for Adult

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for masks, especially in families with all different face sizes and shapes. These masks come in four sizes: extra large (recommended for adult men), large (adult women), medium (teenagers) and small (children). One pack can serve the whole family, so there’s no need to make multiple purchases. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs a wide range of sizes, from extra large to youth. 
Why We Chose It: The CDC recommends masks for children 2 years and older, and these respirators allow families to mask together. 
When to Wear It: You need a comfortable, all-day mask.

BEST FOR BUYING IN BULK

White Powecom® KN95 Respirator Face Mask

COVID is here to stay, so buying masks in bulk is not exactly a crazy idea. You can order these KN95s in quantities of up to 5,000 (which nearly halves the cost). However, masks do expire, so be sure to check the expiration dates on masks that you pull out of storage.  

Who It’s For: Bargain hunters or those who are buying for large groups of people. 
Why We Chose It: It’s high quality, has a mechanism to check if it’s counterfeit, and ships quickly. 
When to Wear It: For day-to-day activities that require strong protection.

BEST FOR ENVIRONMENT

Rio de Janeiro KN95 Masks

Like any other single-use product, respirators generate a lot of waste. evolvetogether is trying to combat part of that problem by packaging their masks in a 100% biodegradable and reusable pouch printed with soy ink. This mask still meets the stringent standards of a KN95 but with an environmental twist. 

Who It’s For: Anyone concerned about the ecological impact of disposable masks. 
Why We Chose It: COVID is going to continue to circulate, so starting to think green about respirators is a great idea. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a sturdy, all-around mask. 

BEST COLORS

Vida Adult Face Masks with 95%+ KN95 Allergy Protection

This mask offers the same 95% filtering efficiency as the other respirators, along with an adjustable nose-bridge and soft elastic ear loops. They also come in bright, unique colors not typical of an KN95, including seafoam green and glacier blue. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to jazz up their mask game with fun colors. 
Why We Chose It: Wearing a mask every day is boring, these are great for a little versatility while still getting the same protection. 
When to Wear It: When a pink, purple, or blue mask matches the ‘fit better. 

IFM INDIANA FACE MASK N95 Respirator Masks | Box of 25 | NIOSH APPROVED N95 | Made in USA 

First things first: the IFM Indiana Mask is approved by the NIOSH and has a clear NIOSH approval label on the packaging, on the masks themselves, and on the seller’s website. If you’re especially concerned about counterfeit masks, the label also includes a testing and certification (TC) approval number 

The company has also published videos about how to ensure that your mask fits properly. This step cannot be overlooked, says Dr. Choudhury. “In order to better filter infectious particles from the air, you want to select a size and style of mask that fully covers your nose, mouth, and chin without leaving large gaps between the edges of the mask and your face.” 

By virtue of having five layers — an outer layer, three filtration levels, and an inner layer — this mask also offers protection that other masks cannot. “The N95 is considered a respirator, so it’s actually filtering the air particles in a way that a surgical mask is not able to do,” says Dr. Adalja. “The surgical mask is primarily designed to stop bigger respiratory droplets.” Overall, the mask offers a 95% filtration rate and comes in packs of 25.

MOST COMFORTABLE

N95 Face Mask,30 Pack NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

This mask is easy to fold and has a silicon cord that makes wearing more comfortable. It also uses electrostatic fabric that allows for low breathing resistance while still providing premium protection. It comes in packs of 30 and each mask is individually wrapped. 

Who It’s For: Folks looking for a super protective, general-use mask for avoiding infection 

Why We Chose It: This mask uses electrostatic fabric for low breathing resistance alongside the premium protection. 

When to Wear It: Anytime, anywhere — this is a great everyday mask for grabbing on your way out the door.

BEST FOR GLASSES

3M™ Aura™ Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95, 240 ea/Case

From reputable brand 3M, this mask is constructed especially for people wearing glasses. Its curved profile allows more room for eyewear and is also meant to direct exhaled air away from the nose panel to keep your specks from fogging up. It’s approved for at least 95% filtration efficiency. 

Who It’s For: Mask wearers who are sick of their glasses fogging up.

Why We Chose It: It offers similar protection as the other masks but is also specifically designed to accommodate eyewear. 

When to Wear It: Anywhere where your breath is warmer than the air around it, which is when fog forms.

BEST WATERPROOF

N95 Face Mask Black,50 Pack NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

With five layers of protection, an adjustable nose clip, and high elastic ear loops, this mask provides at least 95% filtration efficiency and is easy to fit and wear comfortably. It’s also waterproof and comes in packs of 50. 

Who It’s For: People, like food service workers, who need a comfortable mask that can also withstand contact with liquid.  

Why We Chose It: A soggy, disintegrating mask is the last thing you want on your face. 

When to Wear It: Outside, or anywhere else where your mask might encounter wetness.

BEST INDIVIDUALLY-WRAPPED

PandMedic MedicPro – Medical Grade N95 Mask – NIOSH Approved N95 Respirator Mask – Protective Face Covering with Headloop – Made in the U.S.A – 10 Count

These individually-wrapped masks come in packs of 10 and offer an adjustable nose clip to make sure the seal is both effective and comfortable. They’re also equipped with water-resistant technology and filter out moisture droplets, saliva, dust, and pollen. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who’s having trouble fitting into other masks and / or has a nose that may require special accommodation.

Why We Chose It: Because a secure seal is so important to the mask fitting and every face is shaped differently.

When to Wear It: Outside, especially during pollen season or when it’s especially dusty.

BEST FOR A SECURE FIT

3M™ Aura™ Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95, 440 ea/Case

Another mask from 3M, this one is collapse resistant and comes with a chin tab that helps the mask stick on the face. It’s also approved for at least 95% filtration efficiency and employs the same anti-fogging glasses technology.

Who It’s For: People who are struggling to find a properly-fitting mask elsewhere. 

Why We Chose It: If the adjustable nose piece and high ear loops still aren’t working for you (see above), this mask may give you the fit you need. 

When to Wear It: During high-movement activities that could cause your other masks to jostle around or collapse.

BEST FOR LENGTHY USES

3M™ Particulate Respirator 8210, N95 160 EA/Case

This 3M mask has a welded dual point attachment to ensure that the mask is snug against your face for the entire day. It’s also approved for 95% filtration efficiency and comes in either cases of 20 or boxes of 160. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who struggles with masks that connect behind the ears or is still struggling to snugly fit another style of mask on their face

Why We Chose It: The straps go around your head instead of your ears, offering another fit option (though it may take some time to get used to it).

When to Wear It: When you’re going to be masked up for a while (think: transatlantic flight) and need to reduce the pressure on your ears.

IFM INDIANA FACE MASK N95 Respirator Masks (Box of 25)

The IFM Indiana Mask has the credentials that you’re looking for — specifically, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approval. And for anyone concerned about a third-party seller selling them a counterfeit version, testing, and certification (TC) approval numbers can be found on the NIOSH website. 

Proper fit is essential, so much so that the company has published videos on the topic. “The mask does not work when it’s on your chin,” said Emily Volk, president of the College of American Pathologists. Instead, it should fully cover the nose, mouth, and chin and fit snugly on the face.  

The IFM Indiana Mask offers protection that’s far superior to what’s offered by a cloth or a surgical mask. In a CDC study, cloth masks lowered the risk of testing positive for COVID by 56%, surgical masks achieved 66%, and respirators like the IFM hit 83%. Overall, the mask offers a 95% filtration rate and comes in packs of 25. 

BEST FOR GLASSES

3M™ Aura™ Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95, 240 ea/Case

Speck-wearers, this mask is for you. The curved shape provides ample room for glasses and is specifically designed to funnel exhaled air away from the nose (with the goal of reducing foggy lenses). 

Who It’s For: Folks looking for a super protective, general-use mask that also accommodates shades or prescription glasses. 

Why We Chose It: It aims to solve the very common issue of foggy glasses while mask wearing.  

When to Wear It: Anytime, anywhere — this is a great everyday mask.

BEST FOR A SECURE FIT

3M™ Aura™ Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95, 440 ea/Case

No glue stick required. This face mask will cling to all the right places with its chin tab and collapse-resistant technology. Plus, it’s approved for at least 95% filtration efficiency and also accommodates people who wear glasses.

Who It’s For: Anyone who’s having problems getting that essentially snug fit. 

Why We Chose It: Proper fit is fundamental to staying protected. 

When to Wear It: When the day involves a lot of movement and you need a mask to stay in place.

BEST FOR LENGTHY USES

3M™ Particulate Respirator 8210, N95 160 EA/Case

This mask from 3M is designed to go the distance. Its welded dual point attachment loops around the skull and base of the neck, keeping the mask snug and secure. It’s designed to stay put and stay comfortable for a whole day’s use. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who can’t stand the feeling of having their ears tugged by a strap. 

Why We Chose It: The around-the-head strap is more secure and potentially more protective, though it may require some time to warm up to it. 

When to Wear It: When you’ve got a full day’s worth of activities and want to spare the backs of the ears.

BEST L-THEANINE

Doctor's Best L-Theanine

This L-theanine from Doctor’s Best contains Suntheanine, a pure form of the supplement that’s meant to support relaxation without causing drowsiness. It contains 150 milligrams of L-theanine per dose and minimal other ingredients.

BEST ST. JOHN'S WORT

Gaia St. John's Wort

These vegan St. John’s wort capsules from Gaia are made in the USA. Each bottle comes with a tracking feature with which the user can find where the herbs inside were grown and cultivated.

BEST OMEGA-3

Spring Valley Omega-3 From Fish Oil

Spring Valley is both a large and, by all measurable accounts, trustworthy supplements label that’s somewhat affordable. The brand’s Omega-3 supplement from fish oil contains both EPA and DHA (two key omega fatty acids) with minimal other junky ingredients.

BEST 5-HTP

Natrol 5-HTP Time Release Tablets

Natrol’s 5-HTP supplement is formulated as a 100% drug-free way to elevate one’s mood and lower one’s stress. It’s made with no artificial ingredients, sweeteners, or preservatives and the time-release formula is designed to sustain the effects throughout the day.

BEST VITAMIN B COMPLEX

Nature Made Super B Complex

Nature Made’s super B complex supplement contains all 8 essential B vitamins including folic acid and B-12. It’s formulated so you only have to take one tablet daily to get a full dose, and it’s made without artificial flavors or colors.

BEST OVERALL

Silent Mind Singing Bowl Set

Why We Chose It: This set is crafted by local Nepalese artisans for a high-quality build and powerful sound.

Made For: Those new to using meditation bowls who want the best option. 

This beautiful set comes with a four-inch singing bowl that’s easy to hold and therefore easy to play. The smaller the bowl, the better suited it is for beginners, and this one fits that bill. (It’s also small enough to travel with the user.)

This set also comes with two accessories: a striker mallet, which has a leather grip to make it easy to hold and is hand-inspected for sound quality before shipping, and a dampening pillow for quieting the sound quickly when necessary.

RUNNER UP, BEST OVERALL

Ohm Singing Bowl Set

Why We Chose It: This beautiful hand-hammered meditation bowl is 3.5 inches wide, which makes it perfect for beginners looking for something small to start with.

Made For: Meditators with small hands.

The Ohm Singing Bowl Set has a 3.5-inch hand-hammered meditation bowl that still produces a stunning sound despite its small size. It also comes with a hand-sewn cushion.

BEST VALUE

Raleahih Singing Bowl 2-Pack

Why We Chose It: Different-sized meditation bowls produce different sounds, so this variety pack gives the user more options for playing. 

Made For: People who want sound variety. 

This two-pack comes with a 4-inch bowl and a 3.5-inch bowl, both of which produce sounds at different pitches and in different keys. They complement one another design-wise and can be played separately or simultaneously with the included mallet and dampening cushion.

BEST BUDGET

Himalayan Healing Singing Bowl Set

Why We Chose It: This bowl comes in a variety of sizes, but its biggest draw is its budget price tag.

Made For: People who don’t want to overspend.

This bowl set actually comes in three different sizes: 3, 3.5, and 4 inches. This means it’s a lot easier to find the perfect size for each person, but SPY’s favorite thing about the set is that the 3-inch bowl is just under $20, which is about half the price of many of the other options on this list.

BEST FOR SMALL SPACES

Himalayan Bazaar Tingsha Bells

Why We Chose It: Tingsha bells are a good alternative to meditation bowls, and these ones are excellent.

Made For: Meditators who don’t have the space or interest in storing a meditation bowl.

A lot of people think of meditation as a practice of disciplined restriction. One is supposed to cut out the outside world, remove external stimuli, and just focus within. This can work for some, but for others, it can feel quite suffocating. Props and tools like meditation bowls can help assuage these feelings and give someone something to focus on that’s still meditative in nature. Playing, listening, looking, and feeling can all happen during a mindfulness practice, and meditation bowls are one tool that can help someone be successful. 

Stress Less, Accomplish More – Emily Fletcher

Why We Chose It: It comes expert-recommended.

Made For: People with debilitating stress.

This book makes meditation practical and applicable for the modern professional who may just see the practice as a wellness hack. It frames it as a method for performing better, rather than just calming down, which inherently makes it more accessible. 

Smith also recommended this book personally. “This book was pivotal in my meditation practice as it removed all the noise around exactly how to meditate,” she says. “It is incredibly informative, easily actionable, and best of all, suitable for any level.”

Practical Meditation For Beginners – Benjamin W. Decker

Why We Chose It: Beginners are the most likely to read up on meditation, and this book is perfect for them.

Made For: It’s in the title.

Practical Meditation for Beginners is an immensely straightforward exploration of meditation — why people might want to pursue it and ways to get used to it. It goes into detail on ten different approaches to the practice, meaning it’ll likely have at least one that’ll mesh well with everyone. It’s a perfect first step for those who don’t like to jump into anything without reading up on it first.

Zen Meditation For Beginners – Bonnie Myotai Treace

Why We Chose It: Meditation is an inherently spiritual affair, and this book dives straight into the heart of what zen truly means and how it can be applied to a modern, contemporary life.

Made For: Beginners who are interested in the spiritual side of meditation in addition to the discipline of sitting cross-legged.

Finding a state of zen — essentially a calm acceptance of the tribulations of the external world — and working towards enlightenment have historically been the goals of meditation. This book not only explores meditation’s origins but makes them accessible to understand and implement through easy-to-follow rituals. 

The Daily Meditation Book of Healing – Worthy Stokes

Why We Chose It: This book is a good one for those looking to overcome trauma and anxiety or who are seeking out meditation as a way of healing.

Made For: Those who are exploring meditation as a method for recovering or healing.

Meditation can be incredibly powerful as a tool, alongside therapy, for overcoming unpleasant life experiences. That’s the central focus of this book. Stokes, the author, has overcome a lot of unpleasantness in their own life, and she shares how she’s used meditation as a means for healing in the hopes of helping others do the same.

Moments of Mindfulness – Thich Nhat Hanh

Why We Chose It: This book is full of inspiration and quotes to draw from before meditation.

Made For: More experienced practitioners who need a burst of inspiration for their practice. 

This book serves as equal parts inspiration, thanks to quotes from Thich Nhat Hanh, a renowned zen and mindfulness teacher and author, and actionable self-help with a journal. It has a mix of things to meditate upon, as well as journal pages to help the user look inward with more efficiency. 

How to Meditate: A Practical Guide to Making Friends With Your Mind – Pema Chödrön

Why We Chose It: This is another excellent book for beginners looking to build their mindfulness and meditation practice from the ground up.

Made For: Beginners who want a bit more help, both mentally and physically, as it discusses posture and mindfulness. 

Pema Chödrön, a Tibetan-Buddhist ordained nun and current teacher at the Gampo Abbey Buddhist temple in Canada, takes some of the most transcendental topics in meditation and makes them much less intimidating. This book goes into great detail on how to meditate and manage emotions, as well as providing specifics on which postures can help stimulate a worthwhile practice.

Mindfulness in Plain English – Bhante Henepola Guaratana

Why We Chose It: This book has remained a tried and true classic in the meditation space for nearly 30 years. 

Made For: People who want to study a classic guide to meditation. 

This book, which was published nearly 30 years ago, is a classic read for budding meditation teachers across the country because of its straightforward examination of meditation combined with instruction that emphasizes dealing with distraction — a common challenge for new and seasoned meditators alike.
Reading is how many folks first learn to digest new information, and meditation doesn’t have to be any different. It can be learned experientially, but learning about where it comes from and why it can work may instill a deeper sense of purpose that can help with staying consistent.