Michael Acton Smith is the Co-founder and Co-CEO of Calm. We like to think of Calm.com as the happiness app.  But where does Michael recommend to get away from the London chaos and just chill out?

Before Calm there was Moshi Monsters, Michael's brainchild that literally took over the world with 80 million registered users. With world domination comes a huge amount of pressure which is when Michael discovered the power of mindfulness and meditation to find focus and strength. It didn't take long for Michael to launch Calm.com which now has over 22 million downloads. You can learn to meditate, sleep better and just take a step back so you can deal with the stresses that are thrown your way. You might just spot Michael, eyes shut and looking very serene in a central London oasis.....

London is an extraordinary city. It crackles with energy but to recharge the batteries every now and then it makes sense to step out of the creative chaos and enjoy a little quiet time. I lived on Berwick Street in Soho for almost ten years so finding places to unwind was very important. These are some of my favourite calm spots in central London:

1. Find inspiration

Waterstone’s on Piccadilly is the oldest bookstore in Europe and an inspirational place to spend a rainy afternoon. The cafe and bar on the top floor has great views and is a hidden gem. 

2. Lie down

Southwood Garden, next to Waterstone’s is right in the bustling heart of Piccadilly but it’s not visible from the main road so is a peaceful place to sit amongst the trees and greenery. 

3. Mindful lunch break

Heddon Street is tucked away behind Regent Street and mostly undiscovered by tourists. There are multiple restaurants spilling onto the pedestrianised street but the best is Tibits where you can sit outside and read the papers in the afternoon sunshine.  

3. Play hard

There are 12 tennis courts hidden within woodland in the South West corner of Regent’s Park. Most of them are floodlit so this is a great spot for a leisurely after-work game during the long Summer evenings.

3. A Great Escape

Marlow isn’t in London but I’m including it because it’s a very calm place and less than an hour of out of town by train. I grew up there and so heading back for a Sunday Lunch (In the Chequers pub) and then walking through the park and along the river Thames is one my favourite ways to spend a weekend. 

Download your slice of Calm before World Meditation Day on May 15th.

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