Breathing exercise · 6 · 2 · 6 · 2
6-2-6-2 breathing — 6 · 2 · 6 · 2 — for a lonely evening, when you have more time than usual
A 6 · 2 · 6 · 2 rhythm — even and rhythmic, with brief holds on both sides.
Follow the circle. It counts for you.
How it works
Breathe in for 6, hold for 2, out for 6, hold for 2. Keep the rhythm brisk and even. This is the longer version, for a day with some slack in it. Stay with what you can actually feel.
Why it can help
A slightly brisker rhythm raises the volume of your breathing without making it deep or dramatic.
The pattern, in seconds
| Phase | Length | Starts at |
|---|---|---|
| Inhale | 6s | 0s |
| Hold | 2s | 6s |
| Exhale | 6s | 8s |
| Hold again | 2s | 14s |
One round is 16 seconds. At the default 8 rounds this practice runs 128 seconds — about 2 minutes — plus a breath or two of ordinary breathing between rounds.
Good for
- at the kitchen table, with a cup of tea going cold
- when you are tired but cannot afford to be
- when you have been given bad news and need to keep functioning
Tips
- A shorter pattern done consistently beats a longer one done once.
- Do the last round slightly smaller than the others. It makes stopping easier.
- If holding for the full count feels tight, drop every number by one. The shape matters more than the size.
Please note
The counts are short but the rhythm is brisk. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded or short of breath, stop and breathe normally. Do not use this pattern while driving. If you have a heart or lung condition, check with a doctor first.