ClearBreaths
Try one guided breath first
Free deep breathing tool

Deep Breathing Timer & Visual

A simple deep-breathing visual to slow you down: inhale as the circle grows, exhale longer as it shrinks. The longer exhale is the “brake” for your nervous system — no counting in your head required.

4-6 slow exhale5 minFree · no sign-up
Inhale4s
5:00 left

What is deep breathing?

Deep breathing (also called diaphragmatic or belly breathing) means slowing the breath and letting the belly — not the chest — do the work. Here the rhythm is a gentle inhale for 4 and a longer exhale for 6.

You do not need to breathe “big.” Soft, slow, and low in the belly beats large and forced. Just match the visual and keep it comfortable.

How to use this deep breathing tool

  1. Sit or lie down, rest one hand on your belly, and press Start.
  2. Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 seconds — feel the belly rise, not the chest.
  3. Exhale gently through your mouth for 6 seconds — feel the belly fall.
  4. Keep the breath quiet and unforced; let the exhale be a slow release.
  5. Continue for 3–5 minutes, or as long as it feels good.

Benefits

  • Eases everyday stress and tension by activating “rest and digest”
  • Slows a racing heart and a busy mind
  • Helps you reset after work, before bed, or between tasks
  • Works as a quiet anchor any time you feel wound up

Want a plan built around your moment?

This free timer is a great start. For a breathing plan matched to your goal — sleep, calm, focus, or energy — with guided classes and a calm voice that paces every breath, try one guided breath first.

Try one guided breath first Free to start · no credit card before your first reset

Frequently asked questions

What is deep breathing?

Deep (diaphragmatic) breathing means slowing your breath and breathing low into the belly rather than high in the chest. A common rhythm is a 4-second inhale and a longer 6-second exhale.

How is deep breathing different from box breathing?

Box breathing uses equal phases with holds (4-4-4-4). Deep breathing skips the holds and emphasizes a longer exhale than inhale, which many people find simpler and more soothing.

How long should I practice deep breathing?

Even 1–2 minutes helps. Most people use it for 3–5 minutes. There is no need to force big breaths — slow and soft is the goal.

Can deep breathing help with stress and anxiety?

Yes — slow breathing with a longer exhale can lower physiological arousal and help anxious feelings settle. It is a wellbeing practice, not a substitute for professional care.

Should the breath be big?

No. Aim for soft and low in the belly. Over-breathing can make you light-headed; if that happens, return to normal breathing.

Read more

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ClearBreaths is a wellbeing tool, not a medical treatment. Stop if you feel light-headed.