Break timer

A free break timer that loads five minutes, the most common length for a real break between work blocks. It runs in a browser tab, so the countdown shows in the tab title while you step away, and Repeat turns it into a recurring reminder. Also searched as work break timer, rest timer, eye break timer.

The 20-20-20 rule for eyes

Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Set the 20 minute timer, tick Repeat, and let it run all afternoon. For the 20 seconds themselves, the 20 second timer is enough.

A micro-break schedule

Break	How often	What to do
20 seconds	Every 20 minutes	Look far away, blink, roll your shoulders
2 minutes	Every 30 minutes	Stand up, walk to a window, refill water
5 minutes	Every hour	Leave the desk, stretch, no screens
15 minutes	Every 2 hours	Walk outside, eat something, reset your task list

If you already work in Pomodoro blocks, the Pomodoro timer schedules the 5 and 15 minute breaks for you.

What to do in a five-minute break

Stand and stretch hips, chest and neck. The stretching timer runs 30 second holds.
Drink a glass of water and step away from the screen.
Do not open social media. A five-minute scroll turns into twenty.
Write one line about what you will do next, so restarting is easy.

Keeping breaks honest

Set the break length before you stop working, press Space, and go. When the alarm rings, sit back down. A break with a hard edge is easier to take and easier to end. The 5 minute timer works the same way without the extra advice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 20-20-20 rule?

Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It relaxes the focusing muscles in your eyes and reduces strain from screens.

How do I get a break reminder every 20 minutes?

Open the 20 minute timer, tick Repeat and press Start. The alarm sounds every 20 minutes and restarts on its own until you press Reset.

How long should a break be?

Short and frequent beats long and rare. Twenty seconds for the eyes, two minutes to stand every half hour, and five minutes every hour is a common pattern.