Breathing timer with voice cues.

How to use the breathing timer

1. Pick a pattern and a length. Two minutes is plenty to start with.
2. Press start and follow the circle. Breathe in as it grows, out as it shrinks, and rest while it holds still.
3. Close your eyes if you like. Turn on voice cues and your browser will say “in”, “hold” and “out” for you.

The three patterns

Longer out-breath

In for four, out for six. Many people find that a slower, longer exhale helps them settle. It is the pattern we suggest trying first.

Box breathing

In for four, hold for four, out for four, hold for four. The steady rhythm gives a busy mind something simple to follow. If holding feels uncomfortable, choose another pattern.

One-minute reset

Five slow breaths with a long, soft out-breath, in about a minute. Useful before a meeting, a phone call or bed.

For the full step-by-step versions with spoken scripts, read our guide to breathing exercises you can follow by voice.

Why a voice helps

When you are stressed, counting and reading at the same time is harder than it sounds. Letting something else keep the pace means all you have to do is follow. That is why short breathing breaks, led out loud, are part of what we are building into Hilo.