Preset guide
| Preset | Timing | Good starting use | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box breathing | 4-4-4-4 | Steady four-part focus practice | Use 3-3-3-3 if holds feel long |
| Relaxed long exhale | 4-0-6-0 | A gentle no-hold reset | Reduce to 3-0-5-0 if needed |
| 4-7-8 | 4-7-8-0 | Lower-stimulation wind-down | Try 3-3-6-0 instead of forcing the hold |
| Coherent-style | 5-0-5-0 | Slow balanced pacing | Adjust both sides equally |
| Equal breathing | 4-0-4-0 | Simple beginner rhythm | Choose any comfortable equal count |
How to build a comfortable custom pattern
Begin with normal, quiet breaths rather than trying to fill or empty the lungs completely. Set inhale and exhale to three or four seconds, remove both holds and complete one minute. If that feels smooth, lengthen the exhale or add a short hold. Change one variable at a time so you know what created strain or comfort.
A timer is a pacing aid, not a performance test. Stop if you feel dizzy, faint, unusually short of breath, panicked or unwell. People with respiratory, cardiovascular or pregnancy-related concerns should follow advice from a qualified clinician rather than an app preset.
Why use the Wear OS app after trying the web timer?
The browser tool is ideal for testing and sharing patterns. A native watch app is better when you want reliable wrist haptics, tiles, complications, background-friendly guidance, dark-screen bedtime sessions, saved history and optional recovery context. See how BreathFriend works on Wear OS.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this breathing timer without installing an app?
Yes. It runs in a modern browser and does not require an account. Your selected settings are stored locally in that browser.
Does the timer work with the screen off?
Browser behavior varies by phone and operating system. The Keep screen awake option uses the Wake Lock API where supported, but a native app is more reliable for watch and background guidance.
What is the best breathing pattern for beginners?
Equal breathing at 4 seconds in and 4 seconds out, or a gentle 4-second inhale and 6-second exhale, is usually easier than long breath holds. Never force a pattern.
Can I share a custom timer?
Yes. The Share pattern button copies a URL containing the four phase lengths and session duration. Sound and vibration preferences are not included.