Getting Started with Bell

Learn the basics of using Bell meditation timer for your first session

Welcome to Bell! This guide will help you set up your first meditation session and understand the app’s core features.

Your First Session

  1. Open Bell on your iPhone
  2. Set your duration - we recommend starting with 5-10 minutes
  3. Choose your sounds (optional):
    • Start chime: A gentle sound to begin your session
    • Interval chimes: Reminders during longer sessions
    • Background ambience: Calming sounds throughout your meditation
    • End chime: A sound to gently close your session
  4. Tap “Start” and begin your meditation

Basic Features

Timer Settings

  • Duration: Set anywhere from 1 minute to several hours
  • Interval Chimes: Optional reminders every few minutes
  • Background Sounds: Choose from field recordings and ambient music

Tracking Your Practice

  • Streaks: See how many consecutive days you’ve meditated
  • Total Time: Track your cumulative meditation minutes
  • Apple Health: Automatically logs sessions as “Mindful Minutes”

Tips for Beginners

Start Small

Begin with 5-minute sessions and gradually increase as you build your practice. Consistency matters more than duration.

Find Your Space

Choose a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be interrupted. This helps signal to your mind that it’s time to meditate.

Experiment with Sounds

  • Silence: Pure, undistracted meditation
  • Nature sounds: Ocean waves, forest ambience, gentle rain
  • Interval chimes: Helpful reminders to return to the breath

Don’t Worry About “Doing It Right”

Meditation is about noticing when your mind wanders and gently returning attention to the breath. This is the practice.

Common Questions

How often should I meditate? Daily practice, even for just 5 minutes, is more beneficial than longer sessions done occasionally.

What if I fall asleep? This is normal, especially when starting. Try meditating with your eyes slightly open or in a more upright position.

Should I use background sounds? Experiment with both silence and ambient sounds to see what helps you focus best. There’s no wrong choice.

What about guided meditations? Bell focuses on unguided, timed sessions. This helps you develop your own meditation skills without relying on external guidance.

Building Your Practice

Week 1-2: Foundation

  • 5-minute daily sessions
  • Same time each day
  • Focus on breath awareness

Week 3-4: Expansion

  • Increase to 10 minutes
  • Try different ambient sounds
  • Notice what works best for you

Month 2+: Deepening

  • Extend to 15-20 minutes
  • Experiment with interval chimes
  • Consider multiple sessions per day

Next Steps

Once you’re comfortable with basic sessions, explore:

×