What is non-sleep deep rest? (NSDR)

Non-sleep deep rest (NSDR) is a set of practices that bring the body into deep relaxation while you remain awake. 1

• 1. Examples and state: Examples include meditation, yoga nidra, and hypnosis. Yoga nidra typically involves lying still, following a body scan and relaxation cues, and keeping the mind awake rather than falling asleep. 2
• 2. Potential benefits: NSDR may support learning and neuroplasticity, restore dopamine availability in the striatum and basal ganglia, improve sleep, and help restore cognitive and physical vigor, including focus and motor function. 3 4 5
• 3. Sleep and timing: It may help compensate to some degree for lost sleep, though it is not a total replacement for sleep. It can be practiced whenever you have an opportunity, including during the day or after waking at night. 6 7