A Christchurch husband and wife have created Jasmine – a wellbeing app that swaps distracting notifications for calming flower imagery.

Built by Reuben and Rebecca Bijl, the app combines Rebecca’s flower photography with wellbeing and mindfulness practices.

“Jasmine is designed to feel like stepping into an art gallery on your phone,” says Reuben, founder of Kiwi app development company Smudge.

“It’s about taking a moment for yourself, enjoying beautiful flower imagery and engaging in thoughtful well-being practices.”

Wellbeing, not subscription

Reuben says Jasmine is an alternative to international wellbeing apps that have become increasingly commercialised.

“A lot of popular international apps are now all about triggering dopamine hits and getting users to sign up to paid plans,” he says.

“Jasmine is the antidote to that. It’s simple, calming and focused on genuine wellbeing rather than pushing subscriptions.”

Bloom your best self

Rebecca, a photographer, captured the app’s images using flowers from her garden, as well as from foraging, and nearby flower farms.

She says that flowers are the perfect imagery for the app. Studies show they have a significant calming effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety while boosting mood.

“Working with flowers helps me to feel really calm and present, and I wanted to recreate that feeling in Jasmine,” Rebecca says.

“You have to take care of your flowers if you want them to bloom. It’s the exact same with self care, and this app is designed to help people be the best version of themselves.”

Built for you

She adds that Jasmine is built for life’s in-between moments. Whether it’s waiting for a bus, arriving early to meet a friend, or taking a quick break.

“Phones can be addictive. Instead of mindlessly scrolling social media, Jasmine helps users to stay present and take a moment for their wellbeing.”

Creating the app together was a highlight for the couple.

“It was such a cool opportunity to get to work together. We amplified each other’s strengths and have created something we’re really proud of,” says Rebecca.

Jasmine has been built using Liquid Glass, Apple’s new design language which allows for fluid movement.

It is now available for free download on the App Store, with an optional donation model.