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Interval variables control how frequently each type of reminder is triggered. All values are in seconds.

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Available Intervals

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VIBE_CHECK_MICRO_INTERVAL
integer
default:"1200"
Seconds between micro-break reminders (eyes, wrists, shoulder rolls).Default: 1200 seconds (20 minutes)Micro-breaks follow the 20-20-20 rule endorsed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce digital eye strain.
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VIBE_CHECK_FULL_INTERVAL
integer
default:"3000"
Seconds between full-break reminders (stand up, walk, full-body stretch).Default: 3000 seconds (50 minutes)Based on the 52-17 work-break ratio from the DeskTime productivity study, which found that top performers work for approximately 52 minutes before taking a 17-minute break.
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VIBE_CHECK_HYDRATION_INTERVAL
integer
default:"1800"
Seconds between hydration reminders (water, snacks, caffeine check).Default: 1800 seconds (30 minutes)Regular hydration is critical for cognitive performance. Research shows that even 1-2% dehydration can impair performance by up to 25%.

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How Intervals Work

Vibe Check tracks three independent timers:
  • One for micro-breaks
  • One for full breaks
  • One for hydration
Each timer counts up from the last time that specific break type was taken. When a timer reaches its configured interval, a reminder fires.

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Priority Order

When multiple reminders are due simultaneously, Vibe Check uses this priority:
  1. Full breaks (highest priority)
  2. Hydration reminders
  3. Micro-breaks (lowest priority)
Firing a full break resets all three timers, since a full break typically includes stretching, moving around, and an opportunity to hydrate.

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Example: Testing Configuration

From the README, here’s a real example for testing with faster intervals: 
VIBE_CHECK_MICRO_INTERVAL=60 \
VIBE_CHECK_HYDRATION_INTERVAL=120 \
VIBE_CHECK_FULL_INTERVAL=180 \
claude
This accelerated configuration will:
  • Fire micro-breaks every 60 seconds (1 minute)
  • Fire hydration reminders every 120 seconds (2 minutes)
  • Fire full breaks every 180 seconds (3 minutes)
Use shorter intervals like this when testing the plugin or if you want more frequent health reminders during intense coding sessions.

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Spontaneous Break Detection

Vibe Check also detects when you naturally step away from your computer. If you’re inactive for at least VIBE_CHECK_GAP_THRESHOLD seconds (default: 15 minutes) without a pending reminder, all three timers reset automatically. This means you get credit for taking breaks on your own, and won’t be bombarded with reminders when you return.

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