PEAK PERFORMANCEWeeks to result

Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) Framework

Reset your nervous system

Problem it solves

sleep and wakefulness

Best for

Individuals struggling with sleep and wakefulness

Not ideal for

Those who have not established a consistent sleep schedule

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) Framework involves using the body to control the mind, rather than trying to wrestle the mind into a certain pattern of relaxation. This can be achieved through techniques such as meditation, hypnosis, and yoga nidra, which emphasize breathing and body control. NSDR can help reset the nervous system, leading to improved wakefulness, emotional stability, and sleep quality.

Core principles

3 total
  1. The body can be used to control the mind
  2. NSDR can reset the nervous system
  3. Consistency is key to establishing a healthy sleep schedule

Steps

4 steps
  1. Establish a consistent sleep schedule
    Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. This helps regulate the body's internal clock and can improve the quality of sleep.
    Pro tipAvoid screens and electronic devices before bedtime
    WarningInconsistent sleep schedules can disrupt the body's natural rhythms
  2. Practice relaxation techniques
    Techniques such as meditation, hypnosis, and yoga nidra can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
    Pro tipStart with short sessions and gradually increase duration
    WarningAvoid practicing relaxation techniques too close to bedtime
  3. Use NSDR to reset the nervous system
    NSDR can be used to reset the nervous system, leading to improved wakefulness, emotional stability, and sleep quality. This can be achieved through techniques such as meditation, hypnosis, and yoga nidra.
    Pro tipStart with short sessions and gradually increase duration
    WarningAvoid using NSDR as a replacement for sleep
  4. Monitor progress and adjust
    Keep track of sleep quality, wakefulness, and emotional stability, and adjust the NSDR technique as needed.
    Pro tipKeep a sleep diary to track progress
    WarningBe patient and consistent when using NSDR

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
Case study: Improved sleep quality with NSDR

A study published in a peer-reviewed journal found that participants who used NSDR techniques such as meditation and yoga nidra experienced improved sleep quality and reduced symptoms of insomnia.

OutcomeThe participants reported improved sleep quality, reduced stress and anxiety, and increased feelings of relaxation and calmness.
Case study: Increased wakefulness with NSDR

A study published in a peer-reviewed journal found that participants who used NSDR techniques such as meditation and yoga nidra experienced increased wakefulness and improved cognitive function.

OutcomeThe participants reported increased wakefulness, improved focus and concentration, and enhanced creativity and productivity.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Inconsistent sleep schedule
Going to bed and waking up at different times can disrupt the body's natural rhythms and make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Not using relaxation techniques
Not using relaxation techniques such as meditation, hypnosis, and yoga nidra can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Using NSDR as a replacement for sleep
NSDR should not be used as a replacement for sleep, but rather as a technique to reset the nervous system and improve sleep quality.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of NSDR is rooted in the understanding of the autonomic nervous system and its role in regulating sleep and wakefulness. By using the body to control the mind, individuals can bypass the limitations of trying to control the mind with the mind, and instead, tap into the body's natural ability to regulate the nervous system.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Master Your Sleep & Be More Alert When Awake | Huberman Lab Essentials
Andrew Huberman · 2024
Open source →