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What Is NSDR Non Sleep Deep Rest?

by Sandhya Coyle

rating.1a6a70b7
Rated
5
Group
Type
Activity
Meditation
Suitable for
Everyone
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3

Curious about NSDR? In this short beginner-friendly video, you’ll learn what Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) is, how it differs from sleep and meditation, and why so many people use it to support relaxation, recovery, focus, and nervous system regulation. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, mentally tired, stressed, or simply looking for a way to rest during the day, NSDR may be a helpful practice to explore. Perfect for beginners who want a simple introduction to one of the most popular deep rest practices on Insight Timer.

Transcript

NSDR,

What is it?

NSDR stands for non-sleep deep rest.

And was designed by Andrew Huberman by Stanford University.

And NSDR comes from actually yoga nidra.

Andrew Huberman did some experiments.

On NSDR and now has evidence to back up.

That it is effective for reducing stress and overwhelm and putting you into a relaxed state of mind.

So you'll be invited to lie down in a comfortable position.

But it can also work if you're seated.

The idea of lying down is that you're more relaxed.

It then also involves focusing on different parts of the body.

And then also breath work to help calm an overactive mind.

And make you more present into the here and now.

So whether you do a yoga nidra or an SDR,

They are both very similar in terms of how they allow you to rest.

Become more present.

And in turn reduce stress,

Anxiety and overwhelm.

I find them particularly useful to use as a pick-me-up in the middle of the day.

If I'm feeling particularly tired.

I would do a 10 or 20 minute yoga nidra or NSDR practice.

And then my head feels a lot clearer to help me remain focused throughout the rest of the day.

Thank you so much for listening.

My name is Sandhya.

5.0 (1)

Recent Reviews

Heather

June 6, 2026

Thank you 🙏

© 2026 Sandhya Coyle. All rights reserved. All copyright in this work remains with the original creator. No part of this material may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

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