Deep Focus

Constant availability via smartphone and email, endless input from social media, or a constant whirlwind of thoughts because there are so many tasks to complete. This app helps you focus and set aside blocks of time to work, study, or simply read without distractions. Each Deep Focus time block is preceded by a Box Breathing warm-up session to mentally prepare for the upcoming concentration block using this special breathing technique. The box breathing technique (in which you inhale for example for 4 seconds, hold your breath, exhale, hold your breath, etc.) is one of the most efficient techniques for reducing stress and entering a state of calm within a few minutes. It became known primarily through the US Navy SEALs, who use it to maintain full control and a cool head in extreme situations. In contrast to the Pomodoro Technique (which uses 25-minute work blocks and 5-minute breaks), neuroscientific research advocates significantly longer concentration phases of 60-120 minutes. Some scientists emphasize that our brains work in approximately 90-minute ultradian cycles that control various physiological processes, including our ability to focus and concentrate. Even 60-minute work blocks can lead to efficient results. Some people are even able to work with concentration for longer than 90 minutes, although fluctuations in concentration levels are completely normal during this time. But there are other time settings available as well. The Deep Focus view shows the set timer and the current time in a minimalist design to minimize power consumption. If you call up the menu in “Deep Focus” mode (by pressing the menu button, e.g., on the Fenix 8, hold down the Menu/UP button), you have the following setting options: - Frequency (3, 4, 5, or 6 seconds): Frequency of box breathing - Box breathing timer (1, 3, or 5 minutes): Duration of box breathing - Deep Focus (30, 45, 60, 90, or 120 minutes): Duration of the concentration block - Heart rate (on/off): Heart rate display during box breathing - Sound (on/off): Beep during box breathing (if supported by the watch) - Vibration (on/off): Vibration during box breathing - Exit Completed Deep Focus blocks are saved in a history. Deep Focus sessions that are terminated prematurely are not saved, as the goal is to actually use the set time in a focused manner. If several Deep Focus sessions are completed in one day, they are added together. This provides a good overview of the time spent working in a focused manner each day. Deep Focus as well as the History can be selected by touch or by usind the Up or Down Button. Here are a few tips for using the app efficiently: - Put your cell phone out of reach and, ideally, set it to airplane mode - Turn off automatic email notifications - Make sure there are no distractions on your desk - Before you start, think about what you want to accomplish during your deep work session - Take at least a 10-minute break after each Deep Focus session.

Version 1.1: Fixed some timer issues