Take Break – Support

Take Break is a lightweight macOS menubar app that helps you build healthier work habits. It schedules regular break reminders, shows calming full-screen overlays with breathing exercises and posture guides, and provides subtle flash reminders for eye strain relief. The app automatically pauses during video calls, screen sharing, or when you're idle — so it never interrupts important moments.

How do I set Take Break to start automatically when I log in?

Open the app's Settings (click the menubar icon → Settings), go to the General tab, and enable "Launch at Login". The app will then start silently in the background every time you log in to your Mac. To stop automatic launch, simply toggle the same setting off.

Why does Take Break need Camera access?

Camera access is used solely to detect when your camera is actively in use — for example, during a video call. When the camera is active, the app automatically pauses the break timer so you are never interrupted mid-meeting. Take Break does not capture, record, or transmit any video or images at any time.

Why does Take Break need Microphone access?

Microphone access is used only to detect when your microphone is actively in use — indicating you may be on a call. The app pauses the break timer during this time. No audio is ever recorded, processed, or transmitted by Take Break.

Both Camera and Microphone permissions are optional. If you prefer not to grant them, you can still use the app — Auto-Pause for active calls simply won't be available.

Why does Take Break need Notification access?

Notifications are used to send you a 30-second pre-break warning so you can finish your thought before a break begins. You can enable or disable this in the Auto-Pause tab in Settings. Notifications are entirely optional — the app works fine without them.

My break reminders aren't showing up. What should I check?

• Make sure the current time falls within your configured Working Hours (Settings → Schedule).
• Check that the app isn't in Do Not Disturb mode (look for a DND indicator in the menubar popover).
• Verify Auto-Pause isn't holding the timer (e.g., a video call or fullscreen video may have triggered a pause).
• Confirm you haven't manually paused the timer from the menubar menu.

How do I change the menubar icon style?

Go to Settings → Appearance. You can choose between a live countdown timer, a progress ring, or a ring with a countdown number inside.

Where can I see my break history and compliance stats?

Click the menubar icon and select Stats, or go to Settings → Stats. You'll see today's compliance, a 7-day trend, and your consistency streak. All data is stored locally on your Mac — nothing is sent to any server.