Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the free Breathing Exercise Timer — how it works, the techniques, safety, audio cues, and more.
How does the breathing timer work?
Pick a technique, configure the phase durations and rounds, then press Start. An animated circle expands on each inhale and contracts on each exhale, while clear phase labels and a countdown guide you through every breath — hands-free. Audio cues mark each phase transition so you can close your eyes and simply follow the rhythm.
What breathing techniques are included?
Box breathing (equal-length inhale, hold, exhale, hold — default 4-4-4-4), the 4-7-8 pattern (inhale 4, hold 7, exhale 8), and Wim Hof–style rounds (rapid breathing cycles followed by a retention hold and a recovery inhale hold). All timings and round counts are adjustable.
Is this breathing timer free?
Completely free with no sign-up, downloads, or limits. Use it as often as you like on any device.
What is box breathing?
Box breathing uses four equal phases — inhale, hold, exhale, hold — often 4 seconds each. The symmetrical pattern steadies the breath, helps reduce stress, and is widely used for focus and calm before demanding tasks.
What is 4-7-8 breathing?
4-7-8 breathing means inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7 seconds, and exhaling for 8 seconds. The extended exhale stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and is a popular method for winding down before sleep or managing acute stress.
Is the Wim Hof method safe?
Wim Hof–style breathing involves rapid breathing and extended breath holds that can cause dizziness, light-headedness, or loss of consciousness. Never practise it in or near water, while driving, or while standing — always sit or lie down in a safe place, and stop immediately if you feel unwell. Avoid it if you are pregnant or have heart, respiratory, seizure, or other medical conditions without first consulting a physician. The timer shows a mandatory safety notice that must be acknowledged before starting this mode.
Will audio cues play if the tab is in the background?
Yes. Audio cues are generated using the Web Audio API, so they play reliably even when the tab is backgrounded or the screen is locked on supported browsers.
Can I adjust the phase durations and rounds?
Yes. Each technique has its own settings panel where you can adjust individual phase lengths (in seconds) and the number of rounds. Settings are locked while a session is running to prevent accidental changes mid-session.
Is my data stored anywhere?
No. The timer runs entirely in your browser. Nothing is stored, sent to a server, or logged anywhere.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes, the timer is fully responsive. The animated pacer, phase labels, controls, and settings all fit the screen without horizontal overflow on phones, tablets, and desktops. On supported browsers, a screen wake lock keeps the display on during your session.
This tool is a general breathing guide and is not medical advice. Box breathing and 4-7-8 breathing are gentle techniques suitable for most people, but consult a physician if you have any health concerns before starting a new breathing practice. Wim Hof–style breathing involves rapid breathing and extended breath holds that can cause dizziness, light-headedness, or loss of consciousness — never practise it in or near water, while driving, or while standing; always sit or lie down in a safe place and stop immediately if you feel dizzy or unwell. Avoid Wim Hof-style breathing if you are pregnant or have heart, respiratory, seizure, or other medical conditions without first consulting a physician.