Focus requires a specific autonomic state: moderately elevated sympathetic tone (alert and engaged) balanced by sufficient parasympathetic activity (calm and controlled). Too little activation and you're drowsy. Too much and you're anxious. AI breathwork dials in this precise balance.
The AI considers your current energy level and task type. Low energy + creative work gets a gentle energizing protocol (4-2-8 pattern or short power breathing) to raise arousal without overshoot. Already caffeinated + analytical work gets box breathing at moderate pace to stabilize without sedating. Post-lunch slump + meetings gets a brief activation round followed by coherence.
Box breathing is the gold standard for focus — the equal-ratio pattern with holds creates a balanced autonomic state that supports sustained attention. The AI optimizes the pace: faster box breathing (3-second phases) for more activation, slower (5-6 second phases) for calm concentration. Most people use a fixed 4-second pace, which is often wrong for their current state.
For cognitive performance, the AI also considers session timing. A 2-minute breathing break every 90 minutes (matching the ultradian rhythm) maintains focus better than a single long session. The AI can recommend micro-sessions at optimal intervals throughout your workday.