[hn_throw2025]

You can begin with an easier pattern…

Breathing through the nose, in for a count of three and out for five, then repeat.

As long as the outbreath is longer than the inbreath, you will get some effect.

Could also try relaxing first by massaging the Vagus nerve. An easy way to start with that is to massage in a circular motion the skin area in front of the Tragus (front skin flap) on each ear.

You can combine that with the measured breathing for added effect. They both stimulate the Parasympathetic nervous system.

[chrisweekly]

Even easier: start by simply breathing in and out through your nose, without trying to control the duration. Just sitting and breathing.

[hn_throw2025]

The person I replied to needed a gateway to box breathing. This means getting used to mild hypoxia. Not measuring your breathing will probably result in regular patterns where the outbreath is the same or shorter than the inbreath. So, no.

[chrisweekly]

Ok, sure. But the context was a "starting point", which is what I suggested. Babies need to learn to crawl before they walk (let alone run).