0 / 27 cycles

Find calm in 5 minutes.

Session complete

Have a calm and relaxed day

Know someone who could use this?

Leave your feedback here

Stay updated

Sound

Bell Chimes Gentle chime at each phase transition

Bell Volume 50%

Breathing Guide Subtle breathing sounds with animation

Breathing Volume 50%

Timing

Breathing Phases

1st Inhale 2.5s

1st Pause 0.3s

2nd Inhale 1.5s

2nd Pause 0.3s

Exhale 6.0s

Total cycle: 10.5s

Session Duration

How It Works

The Cyclic Sighing Technique

Cyclic sighing is a simple yet powerful breathing pattern that has been shown to quickly reduce stress and anxiety.

The Pattern

First Inhale (3 seconds): Take a deep breath through your nose, filling your lungs about halfway.
Brief Pause (0.5 seconds): Hold for a moment.
Second Inhale (1 second): Take a quick, deeper breath to fully expand your lungs.
Brief Pause (0.5 seconds): Hold at the top.
Extended Exhale (6 seconds): Slowly release all the air through your mouth.

Tips for Best Results

Find a quiet, comfortable space
Sit or lie down in a relaxed position
Focus on the rhythm of the animation
Let your breath follow naturally
Practice for at least 5 minutes for maximum benefit

The Science

Research-Backed Breathing

Cyclic sighing has been studied by researchers at Stanford University and other institutions, showing significant benefits for mental and physical health.

Key Research Findings

A 2023 study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that just 5 minutes of daily cyclic sighing practice led to:

Greater reduction in anxiety compared to mindfulness meditation
Improved mood throughout the day
Decreased respiratory rate (a sign of relaxation)
Better sleep quality

Why It Works

The double inhale followed by an extended exhale activates your parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest and digest" response). The extended exhale is particularly important as it:

Stimulates the vagus nerve
Slows your heart rate
Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels
Promotes a state of calm alertness

The Double Inhale

The two-part inhale helps reinflate the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in your lungs that can collapse during shallow breathing. This maximizes oxygen intake and CO2 release during the exhale.

About

PhysioSigh

— minutes of calm delivered

PhysioSigh is a free, simple tool designed to help you practice the cyclic sighing breathing technique anytime, anywhere.

Our Mission

We believe that everyone deserves access to effective, science-backed tools for managing stress and anxiety. PhysioSigh brings the power of controlled breathing to your pocket.

Features

Guided visual breathing animation
Customizable timing settings
Optional audio cues
Works offline as a PWA
No account required
Completely free

Privacy

PhysioSigh respects your privacy. All your settings are stored locally on your device. Anonymous analytics are used with your consent to help us improve the app.