Resonant frequency refers to the unique breathing rate that maximizes your heart rate variability (HRV). It’s normally expressed in breaths per minute - for example, 6 breaths per minute is a common resonant frequency.

Everyone has a slightly different resonant frequency. By discovering and practicing breathing at your resonant frequency, you can enhance your body’s ability to enter a state of deep rest.

Research has shown that practicing breathing at your resonant frequency can have significant health benefits. Studies, such as those conducted by Lehrer et al. (2000), have demonstrated improvements in HRV, reduced stress, and better autonomic function in individuals who practice resonant frequency breathing regularly (Frontiers).

You can use the resonant frequency test in Visible to help identify your optimal breathing rate.

During the test, the breathing visualizer will guide you through a range of breathing rates over a six-minute session. By analyzing your heart rate in real-time, Visible then determines the breathing rate at which your HRV is highest, which is a good estimate of your resonant frequency.

Once the test is complete, you will receive your recommended breathing rate, expressed in breaths per minute. This rate represents your resonant frequency. Practicing coherent breathing at this rate can help you achieve the best results in terms of HRV improvement.

If the recommended rate doesn’t feel comfortable, you can always modify it to better suit your needs. The key is to find a breathing rhythm that feels natural and sustainable for your daily practice.