Tummo, the inner fire, on iPhone
Last updated 2 June 2026
Tummo, often translated as 'inner fire', is a Tibetan practice that pairs strong breathing with a visualisation of heat at the body's centre. It is a warming, energising practice with a long monastic history. On the iPhone, Sunholm guides a tummo-style session, fully offline.
What tummo is
Tummo combines deliberate breathing with imagining warmth, a small flame at the navel that grows with each breath. Traditionally it is a long training; in a short guided form it is an energising, focusing practice rather than a calming one. Approach it gently, sitting warm and safe, and stop if you feel light-headed. It is not a substitute for medical advice or cold-exposure training.
Tummo in Sunholm
Sunholm paces a tummo-style session with a calm visualisation, runs entirely on your iPhone so it works offline, and has no third-party ads or tracking. Tummo is one of nine techniques; it is part of the premium set, and the app is free to download with optional in-app purchases.
How it compares
| What helps | Sunholm | Reading instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Paces the breath for you | Yes | No |
| A visualisation to follow | Yes | No |
| Works offline | Yes | Varies |
| No third-party tracking | Yes | Varies |
| More techniques included | Eight more | No |
Frequently asked questions
What is tummo breathing?
A Tibetan practice, 'inner fire', that pairs strong breathing with a visualisation of warmth at the body's centre. It is warming and energising rather than calming.
Is tummo the same as cold exposure?
No. Tummo is the breathing-and-visualisation practice. Some traditions pair it with cold, but the breathing itself is what Sunholm guides; do any cold training separately and safely.
Is there a guided tummo app for iPhone?
Yes. Sunholm guides a tummo-style session along with eight other techniques, runs fully offline, and has no third-party ads or tracking.
Is Sunholm free?
Sunholm is free to download with optional in-app purchases. Tummo is part of the premium set; three techniques (box breathing, coherence 5.5, and cyclic sighing) are free.
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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.