One of the biggest dangers of social media sites is how easy and accessible they are. When you have just a few minutes you’ll find yourself scrolling through an endless feed of updates from “friends”, politics, and ads.

Instead, you could bookmark a few websites or download apps that become a part of your routine. Whether you have a little time to spare or you’re looking to relax on your phone for a while, these platforms will actually make your life better instead of hurting your mental health.

1. Feedly (website, app)

Most websites have an RSS feed, which is a constantly updated list of all their new posts and articles. With Feedly, you can search all of the healthy and productive websites you enjoy reading, and put them in a single place. Instead of opening Instagram the minute you wake up, try Feedly instead.

2. Duolingo (app)

It’s an appealing challenge to try and learn a new language. Duolingo is a wildly popular app that uses short lessons with plenty of reward systems in order to help. They have over a dozen languages to try, and the motivating interface will keep you coming back for more. When you’re waiting for the bus, spend five minutes brushing up on Spanish.

3. TED (website, app)

Everyone’s heard of the TED Talk. Experts from all over the world stand on stage and share research on every topic under the sun. These are the best of the best; they make even the driest topics engaging and fun. You could hop on Netflix or YouTube, but at least start with a TED Talk to level up your knowledge.

4. Curiosity (app)

This app contains a truly astounding level of information. Each day, you will receive a new lesson or story, ranging from science, tech, adventure, health, and more. There are even more in-depth courses to help you master new subjects.

5. Elevate (app)

The jury is still out on how effective brain training apps are at long-term increases of intelligence. But with a platform like Elevate, you can definitely feel an improvement in memory, writing skills, math, and more. There are other options like Luminosity and Peak, and all of these have a paid subscription plan if you want the full benefits.

6. Mix, Previously StumbleUpon (website)

You can tell Mix what subjects you’re interested in, and then start exploring. Instead of just a feed like an RSS reader, you’ll be able to “stumble upon” new subjects, photographs, videos, and more. Save your favorites to view or share later.

7. Kindle or eBook Readers (various apps)

These apps open in seconds, right to where you left off in your favorite book. It’s not as fun to read on a screen, but you can easily get sucked into a good story. If you’re on the bus or hanging out in a waiting room, reading is a great way to pass the time. Check with your local library for apps like Hoopla, which allow you to “rent” eBooks from their catalog, totally free.

8. Happy News (website)

Unfortunately, good news will never be as addicting as tragedy. Remember, there’s always a front page story because there’s always a front page. Put down the political and violent articles and browse Happy News for uplifting stories of humanity being the best it can be. There’s just as much good as there is evil out there.

9. Stitcher or Podcasts (various apps)

You can find podcasts on the Apple Store, Spotify, Stitcher, or other platforms. Stitcher Premium has many original content pieces, as well as the removal of ads from many shows. There are so many educational, inspirational, and insightful podcasts to choose from. You may also find comedy shows to be a great way to de-stress each day.

10. Waking Up (app)

There are so many apps out there that can help with a meditation practice, like Waking Up or Headspace. If you’re really having a busy day, take the ten minutes for deep breathing with a relaxing soundtrack. Or, dive into a more detailed course for a permanent change. Your mental health will thank you.

11. Conquer Today (learning platform)

What, you thought we wouldn’t try and slide in under the radar at #11? Conquer Today guides, downloads, challenges, and social support are all in the name of putting you into your best, healthiest, mind, body, and life. Start exploring the feed, or just go straight for the best of what we have right now: tell us where to ship your FREE Base Camp Productivity Journal we made.

MOVING FORWARD

What apps have we missed? Leave a comment below in the field reports with other ideas.

PS: One of the best possible things you can do with your down-time is to get organized. That’s why we have Conquer Command, one spreadsheet to rule them all.

You can organize it from your laptop or your phone. It tracks your entire month, the projects you’re working on, and the exact days the tasks must be finished. You will never lose a to-do list or miss a deadline again.

Download the FREE template along with video and text tutorials below: