Build your own breathing pattern on iPhone
Last updated 2 June 2026
A custom breathing pattern lets you set your own counts, inhale, hold, exhale, and the second hold, instead of using a fixed preset. It is how you tune a rhythm to what actually settles you. On the iPhone, Sunholm lets you build and save your own pattern, fully offline. The custom pattern builder is a premium feature; the app is free to download with optional in-app purchases.
Why build your own
The named techniques are starting points. Maybe a 5-count inhale suits you better than 4, or you want a longer exhale than any preset offers. A custom pattern lets you set each phase, try it, and adjust. Once it feels right, you save it and return to it, the same way you would a favourite preset, but it is yours.
Custom patterns in Sunholm
Sunholm lets you set your own phase durations, run the rhythm with a calm visualisation, and save the pattern to use again. It runs entirely on your iPhone, so it works offline and nothing about your practice is sent anywhere. The custom pattern builder is one of Sunholm's premium techniques. Sunholm offers nine breathing techniques in total, three of which are free to start (Box Breathing, Coherence 5.5, and Cyclic Sighing).
How it compares
| What you can do | Sunholm | Presets only |
|---|---|---|
| Set your own inhale, hold, exhale | Yes | No |
| Save a pattern to reuse | Yes | Varies |
| Guided pacing for your pattern | Yes | No |
| Works offline | Yes | Varies |
| Built-in techniques alongside | Nine (three free) | Varies |
Frequently asked questions
Can I make my own breathing pattern on iPhone?
Yes. Sunholm lets you set your own inhale, hold, and exhale counts, pace the rhythm, and save the pattern to reuse. The custom builder is a premium feature, and it runs entirely offline.
Why use a custom pattern instead of a preset?
Presets are starting points. A custom pattern lets you tune each phase to what actually settles you, for example a longer exhale than any preset offers.
Does Sunholm save my custom patterns?
Yes, on the device. Sunholm runs entirely on your iPhone, so your saved patterns stay on your phone and nothing is uploaded.
Is the custom builder free?
No. The custom pattern builder is a premium feature in Sunholm. The app is free to start (three breathing techniques are free to all users) with optional in-app purchases that unlock the custom builder and the remaining techniques.
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Sunholm offers general wellbeing and relaxation guidance, not medical advice or treatment for any condition. If a symptom is persistent, speak with a clinician.