It has been a challenging few months. Between launching a new business (watch this space!), palliative care hospital appointments with mum, it often feels like my body is running on autopilot. That and a few fun-size chocolate bars – with my morning swim session falling lower down the list of priorities every single day. So, I decided to take a deep breath – literally – and try the Garmin Vivoactive 6.
This is a smart watch that promises to help you actually understand your activity, energy levels, and overall health – without adding extra stress to you day. But, would it deliver for me …?
The first thing I noticed about the Garmin Vivoactive 6 is how comfortable it is to wear. The 1.2-inch AMOLED display is bright and easy to read. So I can glance at it while walking between meetings, running errands, or health appointments. It’s light enough that I forget it’s on my wrist. Plus the Corning Gorilla Glass 3 with 5 ATM water resistance means I don’t have to worry about a splash at the sink or a sudden downpour. Honestly, that freedom is one of my favourite things about it.
Comfy to wear
One feature that has quietly changed the way I approach my day is the Body Battery monitoring. Some mornings I wake up feeling like I could tackle anything, and other mornings it nudges me to take it slower. Seeing my energy levels laid out like this has been a real eye-opener. It helps me recognise that resting is not a failure – it’s part of taking care of myself.
Sleep tracking has also been surprisingly useful. I’m far from perfect when it comes to going to bed early. But, the Vivoactive 6 shows me how my sleep patterns affect my energy. On days when my sleep is poor, I know to ease up on intense workouts or build in a few mindful moments. And, when stress hits, the guided breathing exercises are a little reset I can squeeze in anywhere – while my lunch cooks, waiting at the hospital gate or even sitting at my desk. Five minutes of breathing doesn’t sound like much, but it really helps me feel calmer.
The Morning Report has quickly become a part of my routine. Every day it gives me a quick snapshot of sleep quality, heart rate variability and even the weather. It’s a simple way to start the day informed instead of diving in blindly. On chaotic mornings, that tiny bit of structure makes a difference.
Garmin Vivoactive 6 Has Over 80 Sports Modes
The Vivoactive 6 smart watch also has over 80 sports modes, which has been perfect for someone like me who rarely has time to stick to a single workout routine. I’ve done short runs around the neighbourhood, quick yoga flows in the living room and even strength sessions at the park – all tracked accurately. Seeing my progress in real time keeps me motivated, even when I feel pressed for time.
Beyond fitness, the smart features make life a little easier. Garmin Pay means I can grab a coffee or a snack without worrying if I forgot my wallet. Music storage lets me listen to playlists or podcasts without my phone, which is perfect for runs or walks. And, smart notifications keep me connected without being a distraction, so I can focus on what matters but never feel completely out of touch.
Battery life has been another relief. I’ve gone over a week without charging it, so it’s ready when I am. Between work, workouts, and family chaos, I don’t have the bandwidth to keep thinking about my watch. With the Vivoactive 6, I just wear it and it works. For up to 11 days if we’re being precise…
Garmin Vivoactive 6 is My Quiet Companion Tracking My Sleep, Stress & Energy
At the end of the day, the Garmin Vivoactive 6 isn’t about turning me into an elite athlete. It’s about helping me stay active, notice when I need rest and take little moments to care for myself. It’s a quiet companion that tracks movement, sleep, stress, and energy without adding pressure. For women juggling multiple priorities, it’s reassuring to have something that actually fits into the rhythm of life instead of dictating it.
I’ve started moving more, sleeping a bit better, and noticing how small changes in routine affect my energy and mood. It doesn’t fix the chaos of life. But, it makes managing it feel a little more manageable. And for right now, that’s exactly what I need.
