Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR)
A guided relaxation practice (also known as Yoga Nidra) that increases dopamine, reduces cortisol, and can partially compensate for lost sleep while you remain conscious.
Why it works
Non-Sleep Deep Rest (also known as Yoga Nidra) allows your nervous system to enter a deeply restorative state while remaining conscious. Research shows it increases dopamine, reduces cortisol, and can partially compensate for lost sleep. It's one of the most efficient ways to recover and restore.
Good to know
Practice lying down in a comfortable position. It's okay if you fall asleep—your body may need it. Even 10-20 minutes can provide significant benefits. Many find this practice most effective in the early afternoon or after intense focus work.
The research
Increased dopamine tone during meditation-induced change of consciousnessKjaer et al.Functional connectivity changes during yoga nidra practiceFerrarelli et al.Practice this now
Free guided audio in the Protocol Cards app.