Physiological Sigh
A double inhale — one normal, one smaller top-up — then a long exhale.
Pattern
2 — 1 — 6
Session
Sound
Volume
Tone
How it works
A physiological sigh is two inhales — one normal breath, then a smaller top-up — followed by a long exhale. This timer uses two seconds, one second, then six seconds. The visual expands twice, then contracts. Prefer a single long exhale without the double inhale? Try extended exhale.
How to do it
- Take a normal inhale for two seconds.
- Take a smaller second inhale for one second, on top of the first.
- Exhale slowly for six seconds.
- Repeat. The default session is three minutes.
Session duration
The default session is three minutes — shorter than most other tools, because this pattern is often used as a brief reset. Extend it if you want more cycles.
When people use it
People often use a double inhale and long exhale as a brief reset during sport or after a spike of tension. It is a timer, not a clinical protocol. For a structured equal-phase reset, see focus breathing.
Pattern data
- INHALE
- 2 sec
- INHALE +
- 1 sec
- EXHALE
- 6 sec
- Cycle
- 9 sec
- Cycles / min
- ~6.67
- Session cycles
- ~20
FAQ
What is a physiological sigh?
Two inhales — a normal breath plus a smaller top-up — then a long exhale. This timer uses 2 + 1 + 6 seconds.
Why is the default only three minutes?
This pattern is often used as a short reset. You can pick a longer session length before Start.
Can I change the timings?
This page uses a fixed 2 + 1 + 6 sequence. Build your own on the custom breathing timer.
Is this medical advice?
No. These timers are informational tools and do not provide medical advice.
Related
The stacked inhales can feel unusual. Stop and return to normal breathing if you feel dizzy, lightheaded or uncomfortable.