Which breathing technique involves counting during the breath cycles?

Box breathing is a specific technique that incorporates counting during each phase of the breath cycle, making it a highly structured method for breathing. In this technique, inhalation, breath retention, exhalation, and the next breath retention are each typically counted for equal duration. For example, one might inhale for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and then hold again for another count of four. This method not only helps to regulate breath but also fosters a sense of calm and focus, which can be particularly useful in high-stress situations.

Autogenic training, while beneficial for relaxation, does not specifically involve counting breaths in the same cyclical manner. Diaphragmatic breathing focuses on using the diaphragm effectively for deeper breaths and does not emphasize a counting component. Yoga breathing encompasses various techniques, but it also does not inherently rely on counting as a defining characteristic. Box breathing is unique in its structured, count-based approach, making it particularly effective for enhancing self-regulation and mindfulness.