Focus breaks,
simplified.
A menu bar timer for the 20-20-20 rule, smart pauses, and gentle wellness reminders. Protects your eyes and focus without getting in the way.
v1.0 · macOS 13+ · Free & Open Source
App Screenshot
Short + Long Breaks
Quick eye rest and deeper recovery breaks. Choose presets or customize your rhythm.
Multi-Monitor
Break overlay on all screens or just your main display. Your choice.
Private
No analytics. No accounts. Everything stays on your Mac.
Open Source
Free forever. Inspect the code, contribute, or fork it.
Named after Kanso (簡素) — the Japanese principle of simplicity. Every feature serves a purpose.
Everything you need
Smart break reminders, wellness nudges, and full customization. No bloat, just features that matter.
20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. The optometrist-recommended routine for healthier eyes.
Smart Pause
Detects meetings, video calls, screen recordings, and fullscreen gaming. Pauses automatically so breaks happen when you are actually working.
Office Hours
Set your working days and hours. Kanso stays quiet outside your schedule and on weekends.
Wellness Nudges
Optional reminders for posture, hydration, and blinking. Customize the intervals or turn them off entirely.
Beautiful Themes
Eight gradient themes from Midnight to Aurora, plus custom images and system wallpaper support.
Automations
Run AppleScript, shell scripts, or Shortcuts when breaks start or end. Pause Spotify, toggle Do Not Disturb, and more.
Up and running in minutes
No accounts. No complicated setup. Pick a preset or customize every detail.
Install
Download and drag to Applications. Grant permissions when prompted.
Pick a Preset
Balanced, Deep Focus, Eye Care, or Wellness. Or build your own schedule.
Focus
Kanso lives in your menu bar and reminds you when it is time to rest.
Ready to protect your focus?
Download Kanso for free. Your eyes and mind will thank you.
v1.0 · macOS 13+ · Free & Open Source