​Best mindfulness podcasts in 2023: chill out with these de-stressing words

Covering all manner of subjects - from toxic relationships to anxiety and stress - The Overwhelmed Brain is a podcast for those looking to ask questions and delve deeper into the human psyche. A self-help podcast by Paul Colaianni, it’s definitely an interesting listen for those looking to understand why humans are programmed to think the way we do.

Created by Meg Kissack, this is a podcast for the dreamers and creatives out there looking to do something a little different with their lives. Released every monday, this podcast contains chats about life, inspiring stories and novel experiences that combine to create a truly interesting and encouraging listen.

The description of Ten Percent Happier on Apple Podcasts tells you exactly why you need to listen to this podcast. Host Dan Harris is a journalist and after experiencing a panic attack live on television, he decided to make changes to his life, which is when he discovered meditation. We don't know about you, but for us there's something incredibly appealing about dipping into the world of mindfulness with the help of someone who hasn't been meditating for decades, but was also a beginner not so long ago. On the show Dan talks to all kinds of guests, from celebs to scientists to meditation teachers. You'll find new episodes of Ten Percent Happier every week.

Probably the most well known name when it comes to mindfulness apps, Headspace also has a rather handy podcast that can be found on their site, which is now known as Radio Headspace.Covering everything up to and including stress, exercise and happiness, this is well rounded podcast that even includes round-ups including guided walk suggestions and round table discussions.

Mindfulness Mode is a fantastic way into mindfulness, featuring Interviews, helpful tips and strategies you can easily implement to help you find a bit more peace and awareness in your daily life. Hosted by Bruce Langford, each week there are new guests that include experts in business and mindfulness practitioners. Anyone can enjoy this podcast, but it is business focused, so if you're interested in mindfulness from a work perspective, this is a great first port of call.

Tara Brach is a spiritual teacher who exudes calm and wisdom. Every week she shares guided meditations and talks on her podcast that combine science and psychology with Eastern spiritual practices. Which makes Tara and her work a perfect gateway for anyone interested in the benefits of meditation and mindfulness who would also like some scientific backing before diving in, too.

Created by US journalist Krista Tippet, On Being is an award-winning show covering spiritual enquiry, science, the arts and much more. It's nourishing, insightful and there's a lot of discussion about meditation and mindfulness practices, too. Over the years guests have included scientists, celebs and those celebrated in their spiritual fields, including Mary Oliver, Desmond Tutu and Thich Nhat Hanh.

Designed for those who just don’t have enough hours in the day, this daily podcast lasts exactly 8-minutes and is short enough to squeeze into even the tightest of schedules. Hosted by meditation teacher, Mary Meckley, the podcast aims to help increase focus, decrease stress and leave listeners feeling altogether more relaxed.

This is a podcast born out of personal experience. Created by Dennis Simsek, a former professional tennis player who spent six years struggling with a panic disorder and health anxiety, he is now a life coach hoping to help others learn from his experiences. Covering topics including depression, how to handle stress and issues surrounding anxiety, this is a podcast well worth listening to.

If you’re looking for short, calming podcasts that are an easy listen and ideal for integrating into your child’s bedtime routine, then Peace Out is an ideal option. Made up of short stories that are perfect for both adults looking to teach mindfulness and children wishing to listen to a story, these short but sweet listens are a great introduction to the concept.