What is non-sleep deep rest? (NSDR)

Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) is a term coined by Andrew Huberman as an umbrella term to describe practices that shift the brain and body into a state of deep relaxation, which is not sleep 1. NSDR can include various protocols such as meditation, yoga nidra, and hypnosis, all designed to induce deep relaxation and facilitate recovery, reduce anxiety, and even enhance neuroplasticity and learning 2. Dr. Huberman emphasizes that NSDR practices like yoga nidra involve lying down and participating in long exhale breathing, without the movement associated with traditional yoga 2.

Scientific studies support NSDR's effectiveness in enhancing brain function, increasing learning speeds, and memory retention when paired with learning activities, and help in the recovery of sleep and restoration of dopamine levels in the brain 3. NSDR is also highlighted for its potential to improve focus, especially when sleep-deprived 4. Additionally, Dr. Huberman has pointed out that NSDR benefits emotional stability and can make it easier to fall asleep at night 5.