Breathing exercise · 2 · 6
Physiological sigh for deep focus, when you have been putting it off
A 2 · 6 rhythm — a second short sip of air on top of the first, then a long release.
Follow the circle. It counts for you.
How it works
Stack a small second inhale on top of the first, then let it all go through your mouth. You have been putting this off. Starting is the only step that matters. Let the physical world hold your attention.
Why it can help
A sigh is something your body already does on its own when it needs to reset. This just does it deliberately.
The pattern, in seconds
| Phase | Length | Starts at |
|---|---|---|
| Inhale | 2s | 0s |
| Exhale | 6s | 2s |
One round is 8 seconds. At the default 6 rounds this practice runs 48 seconds — about a minute — plus a breath or two of ordinary breathing between rounds.
Good for
- in the car, parked, before you go inside
- when you wake at 3am and the room feels too quiet
- when you are the only person awake in the house
Tips
- Practising when you are calm makes it available when you are not.
- You can do this with your eyes open. Nothing here requires privacy.
- Nothing is held here, so there is no moment where you are waiting for permission to breathe.
Please note
The double inhale is gentle, but if you feel lightheaded, reduce it to a single inhale and a long exhale. Stop if you feel dizzy. If you have a heart or lung condition, check with a doctor before starting a new breathing practice.