What is Shift?
Shift is a new, dedicated experience on Calm that helps you shift your mood in the moment through bilateral audio — sound that moves between your left and right ears for an immersive listening experience. Shift is built around four needs: releasing stress, getting to sleep, lifting mood, and focusing. For the best experience, listen with headphones.
What’s included in Shift?
- 20+ bilateral audio tracks and guided experiences supporting four needs: releasing stress, getting to sleep, lifting mood, and focusing
- A seven-day guided program combining meditation and bilateral audio
- An exclusive music collaboration with Daisy the Great
What are Release, Sleep, Uplift, and Focus?
These are the four moods Shift is organized around. Instead of searching a large content library, members go to Shift, choose one of these four needs, and get the bilateral content that best supports it.
Why these four moods? They’re based on the everyday needs people most often come to Calm for: releasing stress, getting to sleep, lifting mood, and focusing.
What is bilateral audio?
Bilateral audio is content that intentionally alternates music and sound between the left and right ears to help you focus, release stress, fall asleep, or lift your mood. Headphones are recommended.
Access and pricing
Where do I find Shift in the app?
Shift is available on the Home screen and Discover tab. If you don’t see it, make sure your app is updated to the latest version.
Is Shift a separate purchase or add-on?
No — Shift is included in Calm Premium.
Can free users access Shift?
No. There is currently no free version of Shift.
Is Shift available outside the US?
Yes — Shift is available globally, in English, on iPhone and Android.
Safety and what Shift is not
Is Shift therapy or EMDR?
No. EMDR is structured therapy delivered by a trained clinician. Shift is a self-guided wellness tool inspired by techniques used in EMDR therapy. Calm worked with consultants certified by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) to help ensure it’s safe for daily, self-guided use. Shift is not EMDR or clinical treatment, and it does not replace therapy.