Relaxation Breathing
A beginner-friendly slow pattern: inhale, a short hold, then a longer exhale.
Pattern
4 — 2 — 6
Session
Sound
Volume
Tone
How it works
Relaxation breathing uses a four-second inhale, a two-second hold, and a six-second exhale. It is a beginner-friendly slow pattern with a short hold and a longer exhale. It is not a 4-7-8 clone. Prefer no hold at all? Open extended exhale.
How to do it
- Inhale for four seconds.
- Hold for two seconds — shorter than 4-7-8.
- Exhale for six seconds.
- If even the short hold feels like too much, try extended exhale instead.
Session duration
The default session is five minutes. Use two or three minutes to learn the 4-2-6 rhythm, then lengthen if it stays comfortable.
When people use it
People often use this as an introductory slow pattern when they want a little structure without a long hold. Commonly used as a relaxation technique, not a treatment.
Pattern data
- INHALE
- 4 sec
- HOLD
- 2 sec
- EXHALE
- 6 sec
- Cycle
- 12 sec
- Cycles / min
- ~5.00
- Session cycles
- ~25
FAQ
What is the relaxation breathing pattern?
Inhale 4 seconds, hold 2 seconds, exhale 6 seconds. Shorter hold than classic 4-7-8.
How is this different from 4-7-8?
4-7-8 uses a seven-second hold and eight-second exhale. This pattern uses a two-second hold and six-second exhale.
How long should I practice?
Five minutes is the default. Change the session length before Start.
Is this medical advice?
No. breathinglab.app provides informational breathing tools and does not provide medical advice.
Related
Stop and return to normal breathing if you feel dizzy, lightheaded or uncomfortable.