4-7-8 Relaxing vs Bhramari (Humming Bee)
Two ways to get to sleep: counting, or humming.
The short answer
4-7-8 Relaxing is exhale-weighted — 8s out against 4s in, holding 7s of the 19s cycle. Bhramari (Humming Bee) is exhale-weighted — 8s out against 4s in. 4-7-8 Relaxing builds a timed hold into every cycle; Bhramari (Humming Bee) runs as continuous breathing, so the guided pattern never pauses. A session runs 76s against 72s. Both are rated beginner.
Side by side
| 4-7-8 Relaxing | Bhramari (Humming Bee) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern (seconds) | 4-7-8 | 4-8 |
| Rounds | 4 | 6 |
| Session length | 76s | 72s |
| Best for | Sleep | Sleep |
| Level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Not suitable for | No listed restriction | No listed restriction |
Choose 4-7-8 Relaxing if
Deep relaxation. Inhale 4, hold 7, exhale 8. Best for sleep. Promotes deep sleep.
Practise 4-7-8 Relaxing with a guided timer
Choose Bhramari (Humming Bee) if
Hum on a long exhale. The vibration quiets a racing mind. Best for sleep. Quiets mental chatter.
Practise Bhramari (Humming Bee) with a guided timer
Other comparisons
Box Breathing vs 4-7-8 Relaxing · 4-7-8 Relaxing vs Physiological Sigh · Wim Hof Style Breathing vs 4-7-8 Relaxing · Resonance Breathing vs 4-7-8 Relaxing
This is general information, not medical advice.