What are the benefits of NSDR, and can reishi mushrooms help us to achieve this state?
NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Relaxation) is a technique that combines elements of meditation, yoga, and breathwork to induce a state of deep relaxation without sleep.
It was developed by Dr. Andrew Weilin the 1970s and has been used by millions of people around the world to improve their sleep, reduce stress, and boost their overall health and well-being.
The origins of NSDR can be traced back to the ancient practice of yoga nidra, yogic sleep, is a form of meditation that involves lying down in a comfortable position and focusing on the breath. Yoga nidra is believed to have originated in India over 5,000 years ago to promote relaxation, healing, and spiritual growth.
In the 1970s, Dr. Andrew Weil combined elements of yoga nidra with other relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, to create NSDR. Dr. Weil believed that NSDR could be used to achieve a state of deep relaxation that was even deeper than sleep.
NSDR has been shown to be effective in improving sleep quality, reducing stress, and boosting the immune system. It has also been shown to be helpful for people with anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.
Simple steps to achieving NSDR
If you are interested in trying NSDR, here are the steps on how to get you started in NSDR:
- Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed.
- Lie down on your back in a comfortable position.
- Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
- Focus your attention on your breath.
- As you breathe in, imagine that you are inhaling peace and relaxation.
- As you breathe out, imagine that you are exhaling stress and tension.
- Continue to breathe deeply and focus on your breath for 10-20 minutes.
- When you are finished, slowly open your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
Who is Andrew Huberman, and how has he enhanced NSDR?
Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University. He is also the host of the popular podcast Huberman Lab, where he discusses the latest research in neuroscience and its applications to human health and performance.
Dr. Huberman has been a vocal advocate for NSDR, and he has helped to popularize the practice through his podcast and his work with the company Madefor. He has also conducted research on NSDR, and he has published several articles on the topic in scientific journals.
Dr. Huberman has made several changes to NSDR, including:
- He has added a focus on the breath, which he believes is essential for achieving a deep state of relaxation.
- He has incorporated elements of mindfulness meditation, which he believes can help to improve focus and concentration.
- He has made the practice more accessible by creating a series of guided NSDR recordings that can be used at home.