Summary
NSDR, or non-sleep deep rest, is a term introduced by Dr. Andrew Huberman and inspired by practices like yoga nidra, body scans, progressive muscle relaxation, and savasana. The goal is simple: to guide you into a deep state of relaxation while staying consciously aware.

Many people wonder if falling asleep during NSDR is a mistake. The answer is no. If your body needs rest, falling asleep is perfectly natural and even beneficial. NSDR can serve as a bridge into sleep, help during midday dips in energy, or support you when you wake in the middle of the night and struggle to fall back asleep. While it shares similarities with yoga nidra, NSDR is broader, combining different techniques that all work to calm the nervous system and quiet the mind.

At its core, NSDR is meditation. It trains awareness and presence by guiding attention through the body, helping release stress and unhook from racing thoughts. Whether you remain awake or drift into rest, the practice is healing and effective.

Key Learnings

• NSDR is inspired by yoga nidra and other relaxation methods, but it is a broader set of practices designed for deep rest

• Falling asleep during NSDR is natural and can be beneficial, especially if you are sleep-deprived

• Practicing in the afternoon or at night can help restore balance and even ease you back into sleep if you wake during the night

• NSDR provides many of the same benefits as sleep, such as calming the nervous system and restoring energy

• It is a form of meditation that strengthens awareness by guiding attention through the body and away from racing thoughts