Relaxation Breathing Timer
Deep relaxation through guided slow breathing
Relaxation breathing is about shifting your entire physiology into a recovery state. This timer uses extended exhale breathing (4 seconds in, 8 seconds out), which produces deeper relaxation than equal-ratio techniques because the long exhale phase maximally activates the parasympathetic nervous system and signals safety to your brain.
Use this timer for intentional relaxation: after work to decompress, before a bath or massage, or during a break when you want to genuinely recharge rather than just pause. Five minutes of extended exhale breathing produces a relaxation response comparable to progressive muscle relaxation — but without the effort.
Benefits
- Deeper relaxation than equal-ratio breathing techniques
- Long exhale phase signals safety to your nervous system
- Comparable to progressive muscle relaxation — with less effort
- Ideal for intentional decompression after work or high stress
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this different from other breathing timers?
This timer uses extended exhale breathing (2:1 ratio), which is specifically optimized for relaxation. Other techniques like box breathing produce alertness alongside calm. Extended exhale is purely relaxing — ideal when you want to unwind, not perform.
Can I use this for sleep?
Yes, extended exhale breathing is excellent for sleep preparation. However, if you specifically want a sleep-optimized technique, consider 4-7-8 breathing which adds a hold phase that produces even deeper sedation.
Related Breathing Exercises