[Free apps clockwise from top-left] Buddha Board, Health through Breath: Pranayama Lite, Zen Wisdom, Relaxation Portal HD, Zen Space
In some ways, how technology affects us is what Zen Buddhists might call a koan: It is designed to make our lives easier; but all it seems to make easier is the ability for our lives to become more busy and complex. All is not lost, however, for technology can also be used to initiate truly enjoyable, mind-clearing relaxation.
VIDEO: Future Weapons: Zen Buddhism
Similar to how the physical version of Buddha Board requires an actual brush, water and special pad, in the app version you tap your finger in the pretend water tray and scrawl on your screen. Drag your finger longer through the water to write more. The etchings automatically vanish after a specified amount of time. Health through Breath: Pranayama Lite is a structured course of customizable sessions. You destress and increase your overall wellness through timed, conscious slow breathing aided by animated graphics and musical cues. In addition to iOS, it's available for Android, Windows Phone 7, Mac and PC. Once you've slowed your inner metronome, you're ready to absorb -- and share -- the heady essence that Zen Wisdom has to offer. The enlightened new version that just posted has removed the ads and doubled the quotes.
With your fingers, lungs and brain having gotten attention, it's time for your eyes and ears to attain Nirvana. SRS Labs' Relaxation Portal HD takes you and your iPhone, iPad or Android device on a 3D audio adventure around the world. (Headphones are a must!) In each locale, you're able to selectively choose which of its native ambient sounds you hear surrounding you. At the same time, you can watch a slideshow highlighting that destination's most vivid and popular sights. After spanning the globe, it's time to settle back into the tranquility of Zen Space, as depicted in this antithetically fast-paced but nicely illustrative video. Choose your rake, colorful rocks, detailed leaves and which nature sounds -- or your own songs -- you wish to accompany you in your ultimate digital Zen garden.
Credits clockwise from top left, respectively: Buddha Board, Saagara, Urban Zen Master Software, SRS Labs, Ci&T
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