When it comes to meditation, the first big decision isn’t whether to sit cross-legged or on your favorite couch. It’s whether you want a guide or to fly solo. Both guided and unguided meditation have their perks, but which one fits your vibe? Let’s break it down.

What Is Guided Meditation?

Imagine having a wise, soothing-voiced mentor gently walk you through the meditation process. That’s guided meditation. It typically involves listening to an audio recording or app where someone helps you focus, breathe, and not get distracted by that itch on your nose.

Best for You If...

• You’re a beginner who doesn’t know where to start.

• You want extra structure (or just love a good voiceover).

• You’re prone to drifting off into your grocery list mid-session.

Pros:

• Takes the guesswork out of meditating.

• Keeps you focused, even on chaotic days.

• Great for tackling specific goals like stress relief, better sleep, or finding inner peace before a family reunion.

Cons:

• You’re relying on someone else’s words, which may not always vibe with your mood.

• Not ideal if you want total silence.

What Is Unguided Meditation?

Unguided meditation, a.k.a. freestyle meditation, is all about doing your own thing. It’s usually just you, your breath, and the wild jungle of your thoughts. No prompts, no background music, no one telling you to “relax your jaw.”

Best for You If...

• You’ve meditated before and feel confident flying solo.

• You’re craving silence or a sense of self-discovery.

• You want to explore your mind without boundaries (or voiceovers).

Pros:

• Total freedom to meditate your way.

• Can feel more personal and introspective.

• Great for advanced meditators looking to deepen their practice.

Cons:

• Easier to lose focus if you’re new to meditation.

• No safety net when your mind inevitably wanders into what-ever-happened-to-that-middle-school-crush territory.

So, Which One Is Right for You?

It depends on what you need. If you’re new to meditation or struggle to focus, start with guided sessions. Apps like Vital (hint, hint) can personalize these experiences, helping you tackle stress or find calm without overthinking the process.

If you’ve been meditating for a while and want more flexibility or silence, give unguided meditation a shot. It can be incredibly empowering to sit quietly with your thoughts—no scripts, no prompts, just you and your breath.

Can’t Decide? Try Both!

Meditation isn’t an all-or-nothing game. You can mix and match! Start with a guided session to settle your mind, then explore unguided meditation as you grow more comfortable. Some days, you might want structure; other days, silence might be your best friend.

Final Thoughts

Guided vs. unguided meditation isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about what fits your mood, needs, and goals. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your practice, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Vital offers both guided and unguided meditation? Even better, it’s personalized to fit your unique needs—whether you want a little hand-holding or prefer to do your own thing. It’s like having your meditation practice tailored just for you. Check it out here.

Happy meditating!