In our fast-paced society, many of us struggle with getting enough rest. We live in a society that places a higher value on productivity and achievement than well-being. Getting enough rest is necessary for a healthy life.
Have you ever felt great after taking a short “power nap?” That’s because your body was able to relax and break free from the stimulation of your day, entering a body state of rest and rejuvenation. While we sleep, the body is repairing itself in essence. Non-sleep deep rest refers to a state of relaxation that allows our bodies to restore and replenish themselves without actually falling asleep. It's a state in which we can let go of stress and tension, and give our minds and bodies a break from the constant demands and stimulation of our daily lives. While we may not be fully unconscious during this time, our bodies and minds are still able to enter a state of deep relaxation and rejuvenation. 15-20 minutes.
Here are some ways to get NSDR:
Meditation: Focus on your breathing in a comfortable seated or lying position. Try to quiet your mind and let go of stress and tension. Focus on your breathing and/or a mantra. Research has shown repeatedly that meditation can help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep.
Yoga: Gentle yoga can help calm our minds and relax our bodies. Practicing simple yoga postures can help release tension in our muscles and improve circulation, while paired with deep breathing, it can calm our mind and promote deep relaxation. If you notice a thought about something distressing come in, let it be there, accept it, and send it along.
Breathing exercises: Breathing exercises are a simple and effective way to achieve deep rest. By taking slow, deep breaths and focusing on our how it feels and where our breath goes, we can calm our minds and relax our bodies.
Simulate sleep: Lay down in a comfortable couch or recliner, get as comfortable as possible, and try to get right to the edge of sleep.
Getting NSDR is not a substitute for getting adequate sleep, it is a tool that can be used to rest and recover throughout the day. Try it, and see what happens.