Non Sleep Deep Rest
Non sleep deep rest or NSDR is not new but the term was recently coined by Stanford Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman. Non sleep deep rest is a new term for Yoga Nidra which has been around for centuries. NSDR or yoga nidra is a rest like state that involves a body scan type of meditation that is used for rest, mental clairty and focus.
Non sleep deep rest is a state of deep relaxation in which the brain gets into a sleep-like state while remaining awake. During this sleep-like state our bodies are able to flip into the parasympathetic aka “rest and digest” state. While in this awake but relaxed state, the pattern of the brain waves change into the alpha and theta waves which are linked to neuroplasticity or the rewiring of the brain and its connections. This differs from actual sleep where the brain waves are dominated by delta wave activity which has restorative benefits.
NSDR has profound affects on stress and anxiety and can help enhance mental focus and clarity. I often recommend NSDR to patients who get an afternoon slump – just a 10-20 minute NSDR session can make it feel as if you’ve taken a nap, without the grogginess of falling asleep and waking back up. NSDR has been in my practice repertoire for the last couple of years and as a mom of two young kids. I find it especially beneficial to do a short NSDR while I am laying down with the kids to get them down for a nap. It’s a quick recharge that I find I need on busy days!
Non Sleep Deep Rest Benefits- Quick Takeaways:
- Reduced stress
- Improved sleep
- Enhanced cognitive function and focus
- Improved mood and reduced anxiety
- Increased physiologic wellbeing
You can find free NSDR guided recordings on YouTube and Spotify as well as by searching for Yoga Nidra. Here are a few to try!
Benefits of NSDR by Andrew Huberman, PhD
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