The ratio

The ratio used throughout this practice is 1 : 4 : 2 — inhale, hold, exhale.

For example, 4 : 16 : 8. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 16, exhale for 8.

Over time, this may progress to 5 : 20 : 10, and eventually 6 : 24 : 12.

There is no rush. For most practitioners, it takes many months before these longer ratios feel natural and comfortable.