The psychology behind manipulating peoples' behavior
With more and more people recognizing the importance of rest and treating it as essential to productivity as well as quality of life, the practice of non-sleep deep rest (NSDR) has been gaining traction. Essentially, NSDR is all about reaching that state of extreme relaxation that you feel just before you fall asleep.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.
In a nutshell, non-sleep deep rest (NSDR) is a set of relaxation techniques that puts one into a deep state of relaxation without drifting off.
The term was first coined by neuroscientist and podcaster Andrew Huberman, in 2022.
Since then, the practice has rapidly been gaining traction in wellness circles. Indeed, more and more people have been trying it out.
NSDR has received attention for its touted health benefits, which include stress reduction, cognitive recovery, and general well-being.
NSDR is different from sleep because it involves active engagement in relaxation techniques, rather than being a passive and unconscious relaxation process.
If you are familiar with the ancient practice of yoga nidra, you may be thinking that NSDR sounds remarkably similar.
Indeed, yoga nidra is a specific technique that facilitates deep relaxation while maintaining consciousness.
The practice has deep roots in the yogic tradition, and it has gained popularity in the West as a form of guided meditation for stress-relief.
Although there are similarities between NSDR and yoga nidra, there is a key distinction in terms of approach.
While yoga nidra is a structured practice, NSDR is not bound by any particular spiritual or cultural framework. Rather, it is a general term that aims to encompass a range of relaxation techniques.
As previously mentioned, NSDR is believed to offer a range of health benefits, both mental and physical. First is the reduction of stress and anxiety.
With meditation as one of its key components, NSDR helps reduce cortisol levels, which in turn reduces the overall stress response.
NSDR has also been linked with enhanced cognitive function, leading to a better performance in both personal and professional settings.
By increasing connectivity in the brain’s default mode network, NSDR techniques such as mindfulness meditation help improve memory, attention, and processing speed.
Studies have also shown that NSDR practices, such as yoga nidra, can serve to improve sleep quality and alleviate the symptoms of insomnia.
This improvement in sleep quality can be particularly beneficial for those people who suffer from chronic sleep disorders.
There is also evidence to suggest that NSDR can help increase psychological well-being and thereby improve overall well-being.
According to a 2014 systematic review and meta-analysis from Goyal et al., regularly engaging in NSDR practices can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pain.
Last but not least, NSDR has been associated with various physiological benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced heart rate.
These positive changes can contribute to a lower risk of chronic diseases and help people have a healthier, more resilient body.
If you are interested in trying NSDR, here are a few tips to help you get started. Firstly, it is important to practice in the right environment.
Aim to find a quiet, comfortable space, where there are minimal distractions. This might be a dedicated room, or even just a quiet corner in your home.
Once you have found your environment, it is important to adopt the correct posture. As a general rule, the posture should be comfortable, yet supportive.
Many people prefer sitting upright when practicing NSDR, since it allows the body to fully relax, while minimizing the risk of actually falling asleep.
By contrast, the preferred posture in yoga nidra is generally lying down. In yoga terminology, the position is known as savasana.
Many people find it helpful to follow a guided NSDR meditation, especially when they are just starting out.
There are guided NSDR meditations available in various formats, from audio recordings to guided sessions from a trained instructor.
Many guided sessions include instructions for body scanning, breath awareness, and visualization. This can help lead the practitioner into a deep state of relaxation.
Finally, it is important to remember that with NSDR, as with many practices, consistency is key.
Bear in mind that regular practice enhances the benefits of NSDR, and that even just practicing for a few minutes a day can make a difference.
Sources: (Verywell Mind) (PositivePsychology.com)
What is NSDR, and is it good for you?
Unpacking a popular wellness trend
LIFESTYLE Mental health
With more and more people recognizing the importance of rest and treating it as essential to productivity as well as quality of life, the practice of non-sleep deep rest (NSDR) has been gaining traction. Essentially, NSDR is all about reaching that state of extreme relaxation that you feel just before you fall asleep.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.