NSDr, or Yoga Nidra, often referred to as 'yogic sleep', is a deep relaxation technique that has been practiced for centuries. Recently, scientific research has begun to explore the potential benefits of Yoga Nidra, particularly its impact on dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in how we feel pleasure. View our NSDR tracks here.
A study titled "Dopaminergic stimulation enhances confidence and accuracy in seeing rapidly presented words" by H. Lou et al., discusses how dopaminergic activation can increase confidence in seeing rapidly presented words and improve performance in a forced-choice word recognition task. Interestingly, the study also mentions the increased sensory experience in Yoga Nidra meditation linked to striatal dopamine release. This suggests that Yoga Nidra may have a positive impact on dopamine activity in the brain.
In another study, "Electrophysiological Evidence of Local Sleep During Yoga Nidra Practice" by K. Datta et al., the researchers provide electrophysiological evidence of local sleep during Yoga Nidra practice. The study shows improvement in sleep duration, efficiency, quality, and total wake duration after 2 weeks of practice, further highlighting the potential benefits of Yoga Nidra.
A comprehensive review titled "The Origin and Clinical Relevance of Yoga Nidra" by S. Pandi‑Perumal et al., summarizes the basic steps used to achieve the final state of yoga nidra relaxation. It also discusses recent experimental findings regarding its physiological and psychological effects. The review mentions that yoga nidra produces changes in endogenous dopamine release, further confirming its potential impact on dopamine.
Finally, a pilot study titled "A pilot study on effect of yoga-nidra programme on depression, anxiety, and stress among patients with chronic kidney disease receiving haemodialysis" by Jayshree Kalita and Dr. Purujit Choudhury, shows that Yoga Nidra is a very effective relaxation technique in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression among patients receiving haemodialysis.
The scientific research into Yoga Nidra and its impact on dopamine is still in its early stages. However, the studies mentioned above suggest that this ancient relaxation technique could have a significant positive impact on our mental and physical health. As research continues, we can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the benefits of Yoga Nidra.
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