App Reviews & Comparisons

Unplug vs. Calm vs. Headspace: An Honest Comparison From Someone Who Tried Them All

No brand deals. No affiliate links. Just what I actually found.

By Jenna Rellinovich

I have a confession: I have paid for all three. Not at the same time (well, once at the same time). But over the past few years I have cycled through Headspace, Calm, and Unplug the way some people cycle through diets — trying each one, falling off, coming back, comparing. I am not a wellness influencer. I am a person who struggles to sit still, has a genuinely chaotic schedule, and really, really wants meditation to work for me.

So here is my honest take. No brand deals. No affiliate links. Just what I actually found.

Why I Started Comparing Apps in the First Place

Like a lot of people, I started with the most recognizable names. Headspace was everywhere. Calm had the beautiful interface and the celebrity sleep stories. They both seemed like the obvious choice.

But after a while, I noticed I was not actually meditating. I was opening the apps, scrolling, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the library, and then putting my phone down. The apps were beautiful. My practice was nonexistent.

A friend who had been meditating consistently for years kept mentioning Unplug. She had been using it for over a decade. I finally tried it — and now I get what she meant. Here is how all three actually compare.

Headspace

Headspace

Great Brand  ·  Thin Free Tier  ·  Structured to a Fault

★★★★★ 4.8

$69.99 / year

Headspace is polished. The design is cheerful and clean. The beginner courses are genuinely good — if you can access them. The free version offers almost nothing. One independent review described it plainly: very limited content beyond a couple of short intro videos. You have to subscribe before you can really evaluate whether it is right for you.

Once you pay ($69.99 per year), you get access to over 1,000 meditations and structured courses on everything from mindful eating to productivity. The courses are well-designed. The problem, for me, was that Headspace felt like homework. Everything was part of a program, a module, a course. When I just needed to breathe for ten minutes before a stressful meeting, I did not want to find where I left off in a curriculum.

It is great for people who want structure and a defined path. It is less great for people who need flexibility and variety depending on what life is throwing at them on a given day.

Headspace holds a 4.8-star App Store rating.

Best For Beginners who want a guided, structured program and do not mind limited variety.

Calm

Calm

Beautiful App  ·  Frustrating Experience Behind the Scenes

★★★★★ 4.8

$79.99 / year

Calm looks stunning. The interface is genuinely gorgeous, and the Sleep Stories are legitimately one of the best things any meditation app has ever created. I still think about some of them.

But Calm has a problem, and it is not the content. It is everything around the content.

The subscription pricing has crept up year over year and is now $79.99 annually. The cancellation process has generated a staggering volume of complaints — users reporting unauthorized charges, difficulty reaching support, renewals after cancellations, and billing disputes that go unresolved for weeks. On Trustpilot, Calm is currently rated 1.7 out of 5 stars, with the overwhelming majority of complaints centered on billing and customer service, not the meditations themselves.

Inside the app, the library can feel overwhelming without a clear starting point. It feels more like browsing a content library than receiving a plan. If you know what you want and can navigate to it, Calm delivers. If you are looking for guidance on where to begin, it can feel disorganized.

The meditations themselves lean toward users who already have some experience. Several reviewers noted it feels geared toward intermediate practitioners rather than true beginners.

Calm holds a 4.8-star App Store rating.

Best For Sleep. The Sleep Stories are genuinely excellent. For meditation specifically, there are better options.

Unplug

Unplug

The One I Actually Kept Using

Editor's Pick

★★★★★ 4.9

$69.99 / year

Here is what I noticed about Unplug that I did not notice until I had tried the other two: I actually open it. Not because I have to. Not because I scheduled it or because I am in the middle of a course I feel guilty about abandoning. I open it because I want to. Because whatever I am dealing with — a hard week, a bad night, back pain, anxiety before a presentation, needing to focus — there is a meditation for exactly that, and I can find it in seconds.

Unplug was founded in 2014 by Suze Yalof Schwartz, a former Vogue editor who opened the world's first secular meditation studio in Los Angeles. The app grew out of that physical studio, which means the teachers are not just voiceover artists — they are real, world-class teachers who know how to make meditation feel simple, modern, and actually doable for people with full lives and busy minds.

A few things that genuinely stand out:

The Teachers Are Visible

Unplug uses video, not just audio. You see the teacher. That sounds like a small thing until you realize how much it changes the experience. You feel connected to a real person, not a voice in a void. Multiple long-term users specifically cite this as the reason they stay.

There Is Literally a Meditation for Everything

Over 1,300 meditations, 120 teachers, 40 topics. Sound baths. Breathwork. Hypnosis. Guided journeys. Aromatherapy. Yoga. Stress, back pain, focus, sleep, confidence, grief, sensuality, chronic pain and so much more. Type anything into the search bar and something comes up. And most meditations are just 10 minutes, which is exactly the point. You can do one before you race out the door in the morning, before a stressful meeting, or right before bed — and still get the full benefit. No hour-long commitment. No rearranging your schedule. Just ten minutes that can genuinely shift your whole day. One user who had done 675 meditations credited Unplug with eliminating his need for a CPAP machine. Another walked away from pain killers after years of chronic pain. One person completed a 21-day stress management series three times.

The Monthly Challenges Keep You Consistent

This is the feature that quietly changed everything for a lot of users. A curated 30-day challenge gives you a reason to come back daily. Several reviewers mentioned they had tried other apps and never built a habit — until the challenges.

The Customer Service Feels Human

Suze personally responds to App Store reviews. That is not a marketing move. That is a founder who actually cares. When there is a problem, there is a real person who addresses it directly. This stands in stark contrast to what Calm users regularly experience.

The Price Is Better

At $69.99 per year, Unplug costs less than Calm ($79.99) and the same as Headspace — and for that price you get more content, a better teacher experience, and customer support that actually responds.

The Rating Says It All

Unplug holds a 4.9-star App Store rating — higher than both Headspace and Calm, which each sit at 4.8. That tenth of a point represents thousands of real users choosing to leave five stars. When you read the reviews behind that number, the word that comes up again and again is not "relaxing" or "pretty." It is "life-changing."

"I've used many meditation apps and all are great for the obvious benefits, but the quality of Unplug is a tier above." — Long-term Unplug user

"Nothing compares to it." — User who has been with Unplug for over five years, periodically tried other apps, and always came back

Best For Anyone who wants real variety, real teachers, and a practice they will actually stick with.

The Bottom Line

	Headspace	Calm	Unplug ⭐
App Store Rating	4.8 stars	4.8 stars	4.9 stars
Annual Price	$69.99	$79.99	$69.99
Free Tier	Very limited	Very limited	7-day free trial
Content Library	1,000+	Large	1,300+ meditations
Session Length	Mostly 8+ min	Varies	Mostly 10 min
Teacher Experience	Audio only	Audio only	Video with real teachers
Variety	Moderate	High	Highest
Beginner Friendly	High	Moderate	High
Customer Service	Good	Poor	Excellent
Best Feature	Structured courses	Sleep Stories	Everything else

If you want beautiful sleep stories and do not mind navigating a confusing interface, Calm delivers that. If you want a structured beginner program and nothing else, Headspace works. If you want a meditation practice you will actually build and keep — one that meets you wherever you are, with real teachers, real variety, and ten minutes a day — Unplug is the one worth trying.

Start Your Free 7-Day Trial

Type anything into the search bar and see what comes up. That is usually all it takes.

Try Unplug Free at unplug.com →

I have struggled with stress, inconsistency, and every excuse in the book for not meditating. I am not an expert. I am someone who finally found an app that made it easy enough to actually do it. Your experience may differ — but if you have tried the big names and never quite made it stick, it might be worth giving this one a real shot.

Best Meditation Teacher Training in 2026

Unplug vs MBSR, Online Certifications and Dharma Programs

Unplug graduate Daphne teaching in the studio and on the app.

If you are searching for the best meditation teacher training in 2026, you are likely comparing:

• MBSR certification programs

• Online meditation teacher certification programs

• Dharma lineage teacher trainings

• Corporate mindfulness certifications

• 200-hour meditation teacher training programs

The truth is, the best meditation teacher training depends on your goals.
But if you are looking for a modern, immersive, 200-hour meditation teacher certification designed for real-world application, one program consistently stands out:
The Unplug Meditation Teacher Training
Unplug Meditation Teacher Training is a six-week, 200-hour immersive meditation teacher certification program designed for modern professionals who want both personal transformation and practical teaching skills.

Let’s break down how it compares.

What Is the Best Meditation Teacher Training?

The best meditation teacher training program should:

• Deepen your personal meditation practice

• Teach the science and history of meditation

• Provide real teaching experience

• Offer direct mentorship

• Include business and career integration

• Build meaningful community

Many programs offer some of these.
Few offer all of them in one structured, immersive experience.
Unplug does. In six focused weeks.

How Unplug Compares to Other Meditation Teacher Certification Programs

Unplug vs MBSR Certification Programs

Programs such as those offered through:

• Brown University

• University of California San Diego

• UMass Memorial Health

MBSR, or Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, is clinically respected and research-based. These programs often require:

• Multi-stage certification

• Extended mentorship

• Silent retreat hours

• Clinical supervision

• Healthcare-oriented training

They are ideal if your goal is hospital or research-based teaching.

Unplug is different.

Unplug is designed for:

• Coaches

• Therapists

• Entrepreneurs

• Corporate leaders

• Yoga teachers

• High performers

It is immersive, secular, modern, and built for application beyond clinical settings.

Unplug vs Traditional Dharma Lineage Teacher Training

Programs through centers like:

• Spirit Rock Meditation Center

• Insight Meditation Society

Dharma lineage programs are deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition and often span years of retreat and mentorship.
Unplug honors traditional wisdom while making meditation:

• Secular

• Accessible

• Practical

• Immediately applicable to modern life

It bridges ancient practice with contemporary leadership.

Unplug vs Online Meditation Teacher Certifications

Unplug graduate Angelyn teaches Unplug corporate sessions.

Many online meditation certification programs provide recorded modules and lifetime access.
Unplug provides live immersion.
At Unplug, you:

• Teach live

• Receive real-time feedback

• Practice in small and large groups

• Receive one-on-one coaching

• Build teaching confidence in real time

That difference creates transformation, not just information.

How to Become a Meditation Teacher in 2026

If you are wondering how to become a meditation teacher, here is the typical path:

1. Develop a consistent personal meditation practice

2. Complete a structured meditation teacher certification

3. Accumulate teaching practice hours

4. Receive mentorship and feedback

5. Launch your offerings or integrate meditation into your current career

A 200-hour meditation teacher training program like Unplug provides all of these components in a concentrated six-week immersion.

What Makes Unplug Meditation Teacher Training Unique?

1. Six Weeks. 200 Hours. Fully Immersive.

This is not a weekend workshop.

It is a structured six-week training totaling 200 hours of meditation teacher certification.
You walk in curious.
You walk out confident.

2. Led by Real-World Experts

Co-led by:

Suze Yalof Schwartz
davidji

These leaders built one of the most recognizable modern meditation brands in the world.
This is not abstract philosophy. It is lived experience.

3. Business Training Most Meditation Certifications Do Not Offer

Many meditation teacher trainings stop at theory.
Unplug includes:

• Class structuring

• Pricing strategies

• Corporate pitching

• Workshop design

• Community building

• Confidence development

For modern professionals, this matters.

4. Real Teaching Practice and Community

You do not learn in isolation.
You:

• Teach in real time

• Receive direct feedback

• Build relationships

• Join a global network of graduates

Across 30+ states and 20+ countries, graduates describe Unplug as one of the most impactful professional and personal investments they have made.

Frequently Asked Questions…

What is the best meditation teacher training?

The best meditation teacher training depends on your goals. Clinical MBSR programs are ideal for healthcare settings. Dharma lineage programs are ideal for long-term spiritual immersion. For modern, immersive, business-ready training, Unplug Meditation Teacher Training is widely considered a leading option.

How long does meditation teacher training take?

Programs range from six weeks to multiple years. Unplug is a six-week immersive 200-hour meditation teacher certification.

Is Unplug Meditation Teacher Training accredited?

Unplug offers a 200-hour certification program recognized internationally and trusted by hundreds of graduates.

Can I join if I do not want to teach?

Yes. Many participants join to deepen their practice, regulate their nervous system, strengthen their voice, and grow personally.

Final Word: Why Unplug Stands Out in 2026

If you are comparing meditation teacher trainings in 2026, Unplug deserves serious consideration.

It combines:

Depth.
Practicality.
Business integration.
Real teaching experience.
Community.
Direct mentorship.

For modern teachers and modern humans, it is one of the most complete and immersive options available today.

👉 Learn More About the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training

How to Get Certified to Teach Meditation (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

By Mika Llamada (Health Editor)

If you've been meditating for a while—or even if you’re just getting started—and you feel like there’s something more waiting for you on the other side of your breath, you’re not alone.

Meditation teacher training isn’t just about guiding others.
It’s about deepening your own practice, transforming how you show up in the world, and gaining tools that stay with you for life.

And while there are hundreds of meditation teacher certification programs out there, one keeps rising to the top—for beginners, advanced practitioners, and even people who never planned to teach a day in their lives:

👉 The Unplug Meditation Teacher Training

Why Meditation Teacher Training Is the Next Natural Step

This isn’t about mastering a spiritual “vibe.”
It’s about learning how to shift your state—on demand.
To become the person people turn to when life feels overwhelming.
To understand what’s actually happening in your brain when you take a deep breath—and how to help others experience that clarity, too.

Whether you want to guide others or simply get better at living your own life, this kind of training is the game-changer most people never knew they needed.

If You’ve Ever Googled:

✅ How to become a certified meditation teacher
✅ Best online meditation teacher training
✅ How to get certified in meditation
✅ Meditation teacher training near me
✅ Meditation certification programs

…this is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

A Six-Week Program That Feels Like a Two-Year Transformation

Unplug’s online meditation certification lasts just six weeks—but don’t let that fool you.

Graduates say it feels like a master’s degree in presence.

Why? Because it’s:

• Immersive

• Structured

• Created to meet you exactly where you are—then guide you far beyond what you imagined

What You’ll Learn:

• How to build a powerful, consistent personal meditation practice

• How to lead guided meditations with clarity and confidence

• The science behind meditation and stress relief

• How to find and refine your unique voice as a teacher

• How to connect with a global, like-hearted community

• And how to walk away more grounded, centered, and connected than ever before

This is the kind of training people take when they’re ready to wake up to their lives—and help others do the same.

It’s Not Just for Future Teachers

This program isn’t only for yoga teachers or spiritual professionals (though many of them do take it).

It’s designed for:

• Therapists who want to integrate mindfulness into their work

• Parents who want to respond instead of react

• Founders and CEOs who want to lead with calm and clarity

• Coaches, healers, and seekers who want to grow from the inside out

Many Unplug grads never teach professionally—and still say it’s the most meaningful thing they’ve ever done.

Is It Recognized? Yes. Respected? Absolutely.

Led by davidji—one of the most trusted and accessible meditation teachers in the world—Unplug’s training is:

• Mobile-friendly

• Fully online

• Rooted in neuroscience and psychology

• Free of fluff, filler, or spiritual jargon

You’ll earn a Certified Meditation Teacher credential that’s recognized across the wellness industry—and most importantly, you’ll feel ready.

Can You Turn This Into a Career?

You can—and many do.

Unplug grads have gone on to:

• Lead corporate meditation sessions

• Teach at studios and wellness spaces

• Offer 1-on-1 coaching

• Build digital courses and mindfulness apps

• Speak at retreats, schools, and events

Even if you never “go pro,” the skills you’ll gain will change how you show up in your life—as a leader, parent, partner, and human.

Final Word

Getting certified to teach meditation isn’t just about becoming a teacher.
It’s about becoming someone who moves through life with more presence, more clarity, and more purpose.

And if you’re ready to do that, there’s no better place to start than right here.

👉 Learn More About the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training

What 5 Years of Daily Meditation Taught This Unplug Superuser About Life and Wellness

Congratulations to Lisa Browne for hitting her 5-year meditation streak on Unplug! 🎉 That’s 1,826 days and counting!

Lisa’s journey with Unplug is full circle. What started as a simple challenge from a friend led her to meditation, teacher training, and now, she’s guiding others on the very same app that changed her life.

From Student to Teacher
“I downloaded the Unplug app because a friend had heard about it on Reese Witherspoon’s IG story. She knew I loved everything about wellness and somewhat challenged me to try it.” At the time, Lisa was living overseas, feeling disconnected from family and friends during the early days of the pandemic. “I was restless as an expat but was kind of at the mercy of my husband and his career.” Meditation became her anchor.

Through daily practice, she not only built a powerful habit but also rediscovered herself. “First and foremost, it has given me a voice. I had lost that over time. Being a trailing spouse and mother of three… I had lost my identity and my purpose.”

The Power of Consistency
Lisa’s commitment to meditation became a game-changer. “At first, it was the desire to build a habit. I started trying to commit to meditating every day as I knew that it takes approximately 66 days to build a habit. In that time, I noticed subtle changes in my demeanor. I liked how I was feeling, and so I was inspired and motivated to continue.”

A two-a-day meditator, Lisa starts and ends her day with the Unplug app. “I meditate when I wake up in the morning and before bed as I find it really helps me settle into a good night’s sleep.” Her most-played meditation? “That’s easy… Amy Budden’s Meditation for Serious Sleep and anything from Megan Monahan.”

Her favorite feature? “I love the stats. It keeps me honest and motivated. I’m also super stoked about the new feature of The Daily Check-In.” And when it comes to her favorite Unplug stat, there’s no question: “Day-streak. Consistency is key for me.”

Deepening the Practice
As Lisa’s meditation practice grew, so did her curiosity. “I am always wanting to come from a place of knowledge, and people had started asking me about meditation. I had no intentions of being a teacher or speaking up so often and loudly about meditation, but I believe in it wholeheartedly and know I wouldn’t be who I am today without Unplug and my practice.”

In March 2022, Lisa became an Unplug Certified Meditation Teacher, trained by davidji and Suze Yalof Schwartz, and she stepped fully into her new purpose.

Now, Lisa's teaching on the Unplug app—the very platform that sparked her journey. (Go meditate with Lisa!)

Lisa's Advice for New Meditators
“Let go of expectations. Be open-minded. Give yourself the space to try and fail and try again. Find the teacher and voice that is right for you. There is a voice and type of meditation for everyone. It is absolutely not a one-size-fits-all type of thing. You will know… believe me, you will know when you have found what works for you.” 

Lisa says that one of the biggest things she's learned is, "that you don’t have to have this blank mind and sit perfectly still in an unsustainable position for a long period of time to ‘successfully’ meditate.”

Lisa’s story is a testament to the ripple effect of meditation—how one simple habit can transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you.

"When you create a difference in someone's life, you not only impact their life, you impact everyone influenced by them throughout their entire lifetime. No act is ever too small. One by one, this is how to make an ocean rise."

Find Lisa on Instagram: @rippleintowellness

If you’re inspired by Lisa’s story, here’s your gentle reminder: it’s never too late to begin again. Meditation is called a “practice” for a reason—it’s not about perfection, it’s about showing up.

We’d love to hear your Unplug story!
Email us at support@unplug.com to share your story and be featured in our next member spotlight.

From Burnout to Breakthrough: This CEO Says It’s as Simple as Breathing

Written by Lindsey Benoit O'Connell

Founder of The LAB Wellness

Suze Yalof Schwartz didn’t just pivot—she leapt. For two decades, she was the definition of a powerhouse in fashion media, working at Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, and Glamour, styling iconic shoots, and gracing morning talk shows with her trend insights. If you had told her she’d one day trade fashion week for meditation cushions, she probably would have laughed. But life had other plans.

The Breath That Changed Everything

In 2010, Suze packed up her NYC life and moved to Los Angeles when her husband landed a new job. Suddenly, she found herself in a new city, raising three kids, without her usual fast-paced career to anchor her. Overwhelmed and burnt out, she was drowning in the chaos of transition—until her psychotherapist mother-in-law gave her a simple, no-nonsense directive: “You need to breathe.”

That one moment cracked something open. She started exploring meditation classes but found them to be either too long, too expensive, or too complicated. Where was the place for someone who just wanted to meditate, feel better, and get on with their day? When she couldn’t find it, she built it.

On April 14, 2014, Unplug Meditation was born with a clear vision: simple, effective, and inspiring meditation led by the best teachers in the world. From there, it expanded into an app, a global teacher training program, and a corporate wellness initiative. And Suze? She found herself on a mission to get everyone on the planet to meditate.

Fear? What Fear?

Making such a dramatic career leap could’ve been terrifying, but Suze didn’t leave room for fear. “I was so obsessed with the idea of opening Unplug that I didn’t even give myself the space to feel fear or doubt,” she says. Her mindset? Better to say ‘Oh well’ than ‘What if?’

Of course, success didn’t happen overnight. Building a business—especially in wellness—isn’t all serene chanting and gratitude journals. But seeing the real-world impact of Unplug, from stressed-out professionals finding calm to a woman crediting her meditation practice for her successful IVF journey, reaffirmed that she was on the right path.

Breaking Free from the “What Ifs”

• Start before you’re ready. Fear thrives in hesitation. Take small, actionable steps toward your goal every day.

• Flip the question. Instead of asking “What if I fail?” try “What if I never try?” Regret is often scarier than failure.

• Let momentum work for you. Progress builds confidence. Each small step makes the next one easier.

Meditation: The Ultimate Business Hack

Suze credits meditation with giving her the clarity and confidence to build Unplug. When she started practicing, she realized most people lacked accessible tools to deal with life’s stressors. Her goal was simple: Make meditation as easy and essential as brushing your teeth.

Her advice for anyone looking to break out of a career rut? Start small. “You don’t have to quit your job to start something new—start by following your curiosity.” She suggests paying attention to what excites you, taking small daily actions toward it, and letting momentum take over.

Tiny Steps, Big Shifts

Test the waters. Freelance, take classes, or start a side project before making a major shift.

Follow your curiosity. What are you googling in your free time? Start there.

Dedicate 20 minutes a day. Small, consistent efforts snowball into big changes.

The Behind-the-Scenes Hustle of Building Unplug

Suze’s first step in launching Unplug? Telling her husband. His response? Write a business plan. With the help of a friend, she mapped out every possible scenario, secured a location, and figured out how to turn her vision into a reality. Spoiler alert: nothing went exactly as planned.

Business plans are great for structure, but flexibility is essential. And when it comes to entrepreneurship, Suze learned that success often comes down to one thing: persistence.

The Ripple Effect of a Meditation Movement

Suze didn’t just start a company—she ignited a movement. Unplug isn’t just transforming individuals; it’s creating a ripple effect. When someone starts meditating, they show up differently in their relationships, at work, and in their communities.

And while running a business (even a meditation one) can be all-consuming, Suze stays grounded by using Unplug herself. “Every morning before I even get out of bed, I open the Unplug app and meditate for 10 minutes.”

Simple Meditation Hacks for a Busy Life

• Morning boost: Start with 10 minutes of meditation before reaching for your phone.

• Stress reset: Close your eyes and take five deep breaths before a meeting.

• Evening wind-down: Use guided meditation before bed for better sleep.

Reinventing Success: The Fashion to Mindfulness Pipeline

Leaving a thriving fashion career might seem like an industry jump, but Suze sees it differently. Everything she learned—branding, storytelling, handling high-pressure situations—shaped how she built Unplug. “It’s never too late to pivot,” she insists. Case in point? Her mother, who became an artist in her 80s and sold out her first show.

Suze’s philosophy: Stay excited about life.

What’s Next for Unplug?

With an ever-growing community, a thriving app, and a teacher training program, Unplug is expanding its reach. Suze also has another book in her sights—if she can carve out the time to sit down and write it.

Her message to anyone sitting on a dream? Go for it. It’s better to try and fail than to live with the regret of never trying at all.

And if fear creeps in? Just breathe.

The Best Meditation Teacher Training Program 2024

With hundreds of meditation teacher training programs out there it can be incredibly overwhelming trying to figure out which one works for you and is worth the investment. I know this because I personally researched dozens of training programs for close to a year, before landing on the one I felt would give me the most knowledge in the least amount of time, and the ability to deepen my own practice and confidently teach others. One in particular stood out as the best.

The Unplug Meditation Teacher Training Program with davidji (world-renowned meditation teacher trainer) and Suze Yalof Schwartz (Founder/ CEO of Unplug)

Unplug Meditation was established in 2008, and is the world’s first drop-in meditation studio and has a global app filled with the top teachers in the world. In other words, they already have the real experience of knowing what it takes to create star teachers that lead packed classes and teach to huge companies. Unplug teachers have appeared in the NY TIMES, traveled on cruises with Oprah Winfrey and have opened studios and retreat centers across the globe. 

What makes this program unique is the balanced teachings of deep spiritual knowledge and modern techniques from davidji combined with Suze’s entrepreneurial experience of running a sought after meditation studio. You will get lots of personal attention and actual live teaching time with the emphasis on deepening your own practice and being able to confidently teach in studio, one-on-one, virtually, as well as corporate settings.

Starting from day 1, the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training Program pairs you with a partner so you can practice what you learn on video and live. By the end of 6 weeks, you will feel confident to teach anyone, anywhere in your voice with your own original content. 

"Who am I to teach meditation"? I know that's how I felt but this is how they do it.

In just 6 weeks you will learn how to simplify the science of meditation (so you can explain it to anyone), learn all the different styles and techniques, the business, best practices, how to create original content, how to speak to the camera and how to engage the people in your class. Most importantly, you walk away with a consistent meditation practice of your own, a deep understanding and love of meditation, and a true connection and comradery of like minded people who, just like you, want to make the world better by creating more peace, presence and positivity. 

Led by the internationally acclaimed meditation master davidji, the former COO of Chopra and best selling author, davidji has taught over 2,000 teachers. His method of teaching makes the experience fun and easy that you won’t want it to end. You’ll most likely end up writing down every word he says because he speaks in endless wisdom and brilliant Soundbites; You will also be media trained and guided by Suze who focuses more on simplifying and modernizing this ancient practice so that it appeals to a larger audience. 

At the end of our 6-week journey, I felt I had formed an unbreakable bond with everyone in the program. When we shared our favorite things about it, many of us felt like we’ve found our voice. Not only that we learned the science and practical applications behind it, we can now easily share this knowledge with others with confidence.

If you are ready to make meditation part of your life journey, check out the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training Program and apply — The next course cycle begins on April 8, 2024!

Bonus class perks include:

• Lifetime membership to the Unplug Meditation App

• 1 month FREE unlimited classes at the Unplug Meditation Studio (live and virtual)

• Invitation to join the Unplug Meditation Teachers private group

• Life-long friendships with Suze, davidji, and the Unplug Meditation community

2 Keys To Boosting Your Inner Confidence

I've been coaching for a decade now, and the biggest thing I've learnt - both for me and for my clients - is that inner confidence is the key to it all.

There are all kinds of strategies, ways of thinking, patterns of behavior and practical tips for improving your life and feeling better about yourself, but they're all redundant if the foundation isn't there. That foundation is the real you, the you that you know deep down you are. The trick is that it takes confidence to find that and to bring out who you are – here are the two keys to real inner confidence.

1. Get To Know Your Values

Personal values are a big passion of mine and I often get carried away with myself when I talk about them. I make no apology for that though – they’re one of the most important things you can know about yourself and are vital in getting genuine inner confidence. Your values are ten thousand feet down inside you, right at the very core of who you are; and they’re the building blocks, the foundations and cornerstones for you. A value is something in yourself, in others or in the world that’s most important to you, and could include things like beliefs, progress, family, fun, nature, achievement or freedom.

Why is it that some people and situations leave you feeling angry, frustrated, demotivated or deflated? It’s because one or more of your values is being denied, suppressed or repressed – and we experience that as a negative experience because it’s denying a fundamental piece of who you are. You know those times when you’ve felt really alive, amazing or buzzing? Those are the times when one or more of your values are being honored, and you can get more of that by living according to them.

Your values are all yours, and no matter what happens, no one can ever take them away. You can have absolute confidence in them because they’re there all the time just waiting for you to notice and use them. When you get to know your values, you can start to make choices and align your life around them. It’s so simple and it feels amazing because all that really means is that you’re allowing who you are to live in the real world.

2. Exercise the Muscle

Confidence is a muscle, and like any muscle you need to exercise it so that it doesn’t shrink and waste away. The problem is that unlike your biceps or glutes, which tend to stay in the same place, your confidence muscle can be harder to find. How do you develop your biceps or firm up your glutes? By doing exercises that are designed to work that muscle over a period of time until you see the results you were looking for.

It’s just the same with confidence. Let’s say that you’re the kind of person that doesn’t take many risks, the kind of person who goes through each day doing what needs to be done and doing it well, but not really stretching yourself. You might talk yourself out of doing something because it’s too scary or because you think to yourself ‘I’m not good enough,’ ‘that’s not who I am’ or ‘I don’t really want it anyway.’ That kind of person lives within what they know and what keeps them safe and comfortable. The fewer risks they take, the less confident they need to be and so the less confident they become.

To work your confidence muscle you need to be prepared to take risks – big or small. You need to be willing to stretch yourself in an unfamiliar direction, to try something new or try something in a slightly different way. You need to open yourself up to the possibilities around you and push yourself to increase what you know, what you do and who you are. The more open you are to risk, opportunity and possibility the more confident you need to be, and so the more confidence you’ll develop. That’s your confidence muscle – the question is, what are you going to do to exercise it?"

To Boost your confidence you can try both hypnosis for confidence and confidence meditations.

A Guide to Corporate Wellness Programs That Work 2024

In the past year, the landscape of work has undergone unprecedented transformations, reshaping the way we operate in ways we couldn't have foreseen. The digital realm became the new workspace, working hours experienced a significant shift, and stress levels soared. While the challenges were abundant, the year 2024 brought forth a new era, free from the constraints of the pandemic that characterized the previous year.

This evolving landscape has heightened our awareness of the critical role that corporate wellness programs play in fostering a healthy and productive work environment. Beyond addressing the challenges brought on by the global shifts, these programs have proven to be instrumental in enhancing employee well-being and overall business success. Here’s what you need to know about corporate wellness programs and how to choose one that works:

• What exactly is a corporate wellness program?

At its basic level, a corporate wellness program is a benefit that employers provide for employees to help deal with health risks. While these have traditionally focused on the physical such as workplace sponsored gym memberships and healthy eating programs, mental health and wellness is now one of the most important benefits companies can provide. 

• What are the benefits of corporate wellness programs?

Wellness programs are a surprisingly cost-effective way for businesses to reduce long-term costs. In a study conducted by Harvard, it was found that for every dollar companies spent on wellness programs, more than three dollars were saved on healthcare costs. A World Health Organization report found wellness programs to reduce sick leave by nearly 30%. Not only are wellness programs great for employees, they help the bottom line as well.

• Which wellness programs actually work?

One of the important things to remember when choosing a corporate wellness program is to tackle the root cause of issues, not just the symptoms. That’s why mental health and wellness is the biggest focus for many programs. By helping employees relax, reduce anxiety, and stress, you can improve overall fitness, reduce sick days, and increase productivity.

Unplug For Business

Unplug For Business, for example, is designed to help employees de-stress and refocus. Unplug has worked for over 150 businesses and helped create a more positive work environment, increase employee job satisfaction, and led to improved productivity. If you are a business searching for a way to improve the life of your employees and create a more efficient work environment, consider Unplug.

Finding Your Voice: Post Unplug Meditation Teacher Training

Written By: Hayley Tharpe

Founder of Legally Well

I. Introduction

One of the most powerful and healing tools that you possess everywhere that you go is your voice. Your voice can serve so many different purposes such as to soothe a crying baby, to advocate for someone’s rights, or to passionately sing the Renaissance album in the shower. It is so interesting that I have carried my voice with me throughout my entire life, but when I decided to become a meditation teacher, the first question that popped into my mind was, “How do I find my voice?” In other words, during my discovery call, I asked Unplug CEO, Suze Yalof Schwartz, how exactly I would develop my authentic voice while still fitting the script of what a meditation teacher is supposed to sound like. To my surprise, there were many people who had this same question.

Looking back however, I now like to think of the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training as a lesson in alchemy: the journey is the reward. You aren’t suddenly gifted with this beautiful, Grammy Award winning voice immediately upon completion of the program, but rather, you begin to discover the beauty and power in the voice that you have had all along.

Below I will briefly discuss two keys for tapping into your authentic voice: vulnerability and confident expression.

II. Vulnerability

By week 1, I could already tell that this meditation teacher training was going to change my life. So much can be created when you are in a truly safe space. While I was excited and prepared to engage in the hours and hours of meditation as part of the course, I wasn’t prepared to receive the actual benefits of my meditation practice. Whether bringing my mind to stillness or pausing for deep reflection, one of the most prominent takeaways from my experience is having explored a deeper state of being, vulnerability.

To be “vulnerable” means to be susceptible to harm or attack. Being susceptible to attack implies that there is a weakness. What does society typically see as a sign of weakness? Emotional vulnerability. What is actually the biggest sign of strength, as beautifully stated by Brené Brown in her TED Talk? Emotional vulnerability. This means that you put yourself in a position where you are susceptible to having your emotions provoked, and you choose to sit through it. Allowing your thoughts and feelings to naturally arise. For example, in teacher training, this may look like a gratitude meditation led by master meditation teacher, davidji. Such a simple question, “What are you grateful for?” can provoke so much emotion, when you allow it to. The power in vulnerability is also two-fold: you benefit from acknowledging your own feelings, and you also set an example that encourages others to do the same! Choosing to face how you feel, also allows you to decide what to do next.

III. Confident Expression

One of the advantages of attending in-person meditation classes at the Unplug studio or when using the Unplug App, is the exposure to so many diverse teaching styles. Each teacher has their own tone, pace, and inflection of voice, and they all own it! As a trainee, you soon learn that there isn’t just one voice that fits the script. As a lawyer, I had to learn the same thing. Sure, there may be attorneys who speak in formal and elegant legalese, but there are also lawyers who are more straightforward, sarcastic, passionate, or even those who prefer not to speak much at all. There isn’t just one way to be a lawyer and there isn’t just one way to sound like a meditation teacher. Of course, you might make some slight adjustments based on your own wishes or feedback that you receive, but know that your voice is essentially part of what makes you who you are. It sets you apart from others.

This path to becoming confident in your expression can begin with just baby steps! For example, maybe you finally let out a big sigh as you exhale during a yoga class, audibly chant a mantra during a meditation, or narrate a story to a group. Not feeling rushed or judged, just speaking in a flow that feels most natural. Using your voice in this way may take some courage, but similar to vulnerability, the benefit to confident expression is also two-fold; you benefit by boldly and unapologetically communicating your emotions, and you also set an example which encourages others to do the same. Plus, you are the only one who knows exactly what you want to say and how you want it to be said!

IV. Conclusion

It is important to remember that both vulnerability and confident expression are a practice. Some situations may be easier to practice these concepts rather than others, but the most important thing is to always show up and do your best.

So, if you are looking to become a meditation teacher, you've got this! And if you are looking to specifically become an Unplug certified meditation teacher, I can assure that you will be in good hands. Choose to be confident in your authentic voice and own it as if you’ve had it your entire life!

Have questions about the Unplug Certified Meditation Teacher Training?

Learn More HERE

From Burnout to Bliss: How Meditation Changed My Life and Career

Written by Lindsey Benoit O'Connell

Founder of The LAB Wellness

You know those days when your phone won’t stop buzzing, deadlines loom like dark clouds, and every little thing just feels... overwhelming? Yep, that's been most of my life, especially with my whirlwind job as a magazine editor and producer. Don’t get me wrong, it was fun and exciting, but the high stress environment often led to burnout. Then, I became a mama and that overwhelm tripled. But amidst all the chaos, I found a quiet haven: meditation. It was my secret weapon during those sneaky panic attacks that would try to catch me off-guard. And when postpartum blues and anxiety tried to crash my party, meditation was the friend that whispered, "I got you."

Then came the big "aha" moment. After seeing firsthand how meditation saved me out of some deep scary moments, I thought, "I need to share this with others." But where to start? Just as I was wondering how to go about it, fate (literally) introduced me to the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training program. It was like the universe saying, "Here you go!" One moment, I was pondering how to embark on this new journey, and the next, I was reading an article about the very program that would guide my way. 

A Journey of Self-Discovery Guided by the Best

The moment I learned about the program, two names stood out: Suze Yalof Schwartz and davidji. These two luminaries in the world of meditation became my guiding lights. Suze, with her immense passion and dedication, has redefined modern meditation by launching the first ever brick-and-mortar meditation business, Unplug. Meanwhile, davidji, with his wealth of knowledge and profound insight, grounded the training in ancient traditions.  Their combined expertise painted a complete picture of meditation's depths and potentials.

Learning under the mentorship of Suze and davidji felt like a privilege. They weren't just teachers; they were inspirations. With their guidance, I navigated through the nuances of meditation, understanding its roots, methodologies, and transformative effects. And from the first call to the last, I felt like they truly had my back.

Unraveling the Wonders of the Program

The Unplug Meditation Teacher Training program is more than just a series of classes. It's a holistic journey tailored to unearth the true potential of aspiring meditation teachers. You really find your voice. I share more in depth below some key highlights that profoundly impacted me.

Deep Dives into Different Techniques: From affirmation meditation to mindfulness, the program covers a spectrum of methodologies, allowing trainees to find and specialize in the techniques that resonate most with them.

• Real-time Practice: The regular practice sessions helped me gain confidence and hone my skills. It wasn’t just theoretical; it was experiential.

• Personal Development: Beyond the techniques, the program emphasizes personal growth. I underwent transformative inner work, which is fundamental to becoming an authentic meditation teacher.

• Community Building & Friendships: The camaraderie among the trainees was unparalleled. We were a close-knit community, supporting and learning from each other, creating bonds that extend beyond the training period. To this day, I feel most connected to a few of my fellow classmates who have become my besties.

The Ripple Effects: How the Training Transformed My Life

Transitioning from a student to a teacher is a metamorphic process. With the skills and knowledge I acquired from the program, I could:

• Teach with Confidence: With a solid foundation and extensive practice, I felt equipped and empowered to guide others in their meditation journeys.

• Embrace Calm Amid Chaos: The deeper understanding of meditation and regular practice helped me maintain calm and clarity in daily life.

• Connect on a Deeper Level: Being a meditation teacher isn't just about guiding sessions. It's about connecting with individuals, understanding their needs, and helping them navigate their personal journeys. The program equipped me to do just that.

Today, I not only have a growing meditation business, guiding others through their meditative practices and sound healing, but also live a life more in tune with my inner self. The ripple effects of the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training program touch every corner of my life. From better relationships to enhanced focus, the transformations are countless.

In essence, the Unplug Meditation Teacher Training program was not just a stepping stone but a catapult that launched me into a fulfilling journey of personal growth and service to others. For anyone looking to dive deep into the realm of meditation and share its wonders with the world, I cannot recommend this program enough.

If you are looking to become a meditation teacher or even just to deepen your practice, I highly recommend this program. The community you build, the confidence in yourself, the feeling of authenticity you harness—it’s truly life changing.