What is cyclic sighing?
Cyclic sighing uses one inhale, a smaller second inhale, and a long, slow exhale. This page provides a paced visual guide for the three-part pattern.
Exercises
Cyclic Sighing
A double-inhale followed by a long, slow exhale.
How to practice
Cyclic sighing uses a first inhale, a smaller top-up inhale, and a long exhale.
- Inhale gently.
- Take a second smaller inhale.
- Exhale slowly and fully.
- Repeat without forcing the breath.
Best for
Five-minute calm practiceLong exhale trainingAfternoon reset
Caution
Practice gently. Stop if repeated sighs make you dizzy or uncomfortable.
Sources
Cyclic Sighing questions
How long should I practice cyclic sighing?
Begin with one minute and keep each breath gentle. Longer is not automatically better; stop if repeated sighs make you dizzy or uncomfortable.
Is cyclic sighing the same as a physiological sigh?
The terms describe closely related double-inhale, long-exhale patterns. Cyclic sighing generally means repeating that pattern for a short practice period.
Inhale
Cyclic Sighing
Inhale2s