Meditation Timer
A meditation timer lets you sit without watching the clock. This one is set to 10 minutes by default - Pick your length, start, and a gentle alarm brings you back when the time is up. Mute the sound for a silent sit if you prefer.
Tip: press Space to start or pause, R to reset, F for full screen.
About the Meditation Timer
A meditation timer counts down your session so you can sit, breathe, and relax without ever checking the clock.
A quiet mind starts with letting go of the clock. A meditation timer watches the time for you, so you can close your eyes and just breathe.
Pick a length, press start, and stay with your breath until a soft bell tells you the sit is done. No peeking, no worry - Just calm.
How long should you meditate?
There is no universal number. Start small, then lengthen sessions as sitting still becomes easier and more natural.
| Level | Session length | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| New to it | 3–5 minutes | Building the habit, short and easy |
| Getting comfy | 10 minutes | Daily calm and a clear head |
| Steady practice | 15–20 minutes | Deeper focus and mindfulness |
| Advanced | 30+ minutes | Long, quiet sits |
New to this? A quick 5-minute timer is an accessible place to begin, and a 10-minute timer is a practical next step.
Once you can sit, try a breathing pattern to steady your mind:
- Box breathing - Breathe in for 4, hold 4, out 4, hold 4. See our timer glossary for more.
- 4-7-8 breathing - Breathe in for 4, hold for 7, breathe out for 8. Some people use it when winding down at night.
Tip: Sit tall with soft shoulders and rest your hands on your knees - An easy posture keeps you alert but relaxed.
Tip: When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath. That return is the practice, not a mistake.
Tip: Add one minute to your sit each week. Small steps grow a lasting habit without any strain.
Why a timer makes meditation easier
The hardest part of sitting still is wondering how much time is left. A timer takes that worry off your shoulders, so your only job is to notice each breath.
When you stop clock-watching, your body can slow down. Your nervous system relaxes, stress eases, and it gets simpler to stay in the present moment. That steady focus is what builds real mindfulness over time.
A gentle ending bell matters too. It lets you sink fully into the sit, knowing you will be nudged back when time is up. Want to go deeper? Our guide to meditation and breathing timers walks you through it step by step.
How to Use the Meditation Timer
- Choose your lengthStart from 10 minutes or set your own - 3, 5 or 20 are all common.
- Settle inPress Start, close your eyes, and let the timer keep track.
- BreatheFollow your breath or a technique like box breathing; the timer won't interrupt.
- Return gentlyA soft alarm signals the end - Or mute it and simply reopen your eyes.
Related on timer.now: meditation & breathing timers, 5-minute timer and 10-minute timer.
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For audible alerts, keep the page open and test the sound. Browser alarm limits.
Best Uses for the Meditation Timer
Short daily practice, built up over time.
Timed 4-4-4-4 breathing to calm down.
A longer, guided-length relaxation.
A one to three minute pause during a busy day.
Related Online Timers
Meditation Timer - FAQ
Can I meditate in silence?
What length should I start with?
Should I use this or the breathing timer?
What is a good meditation timer length for beginners?
Should my meditation timer have a bell?
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