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We all know that stress and anxiety aren't good for anyone -- add sickle cell into the mix and these things can lead to even worse occurrences, such as sickle cell crises, in turn causing more stress and anxiety. Curb that stressful cycle by considering starting the practice of meditation. The best part is, it's not as inaccessible as it may seem. Get started with one or more of these simple apps and find the best fit for you.

1) Headspace. To begin, Headspace will give you 10 free 10-minute guided meditation sessions. This app, which bills itself as "your very own personal trainer, here to help train your mind," is available as a mobile app and for use on your computer. Check out this fun animation on how it all works.

2) Relax Lite. An easy-to-use app, Relax Lite provides your choice of brief, deep-breathing exercises -- perfect for those hectic moments in the day where you just need a minute (or two). Additionally, you can opt for an eight-minute guided mediation session.

3) Attitudes of Gratitude Journal. Meditation doesn't always have to involved guided practice. You can also simply retreat to an area of quiet solitude and reflect on your day, recording things and events that you're thankful for.

4) Calm - Meditate, Sleep, Relax. Start off with the app's "7 Days of Calm" intro-to-meditation program, which includes guided sessions, relaxing background sounds and music tracks, as well as calming nature scenes. Calm.com is also the perfect breath of fresh air you need when your workday gets crazy. Just plug in your earphones, navigate to the site, and take a few minutes to enjoy the serene nature scenes and listen to the birds chirping and the water flowing. Think of it as a mini vacation at your desk.

5) Oxizen - Meditation. Choose from a list of meditations that best fit your goals -- "Mindful Breathing," "Body Scan," and "Be Present," to name a few. Even if you feel like you never have time to spare for a "proper" meditation, this app can help you find your Zen in the most hectic of moments.

Have you ever tried any of these apps? Is there another meditation app that you use? Tell us in the comments below!