How do I practice NSDR?

To practice NSDR, find a comfortable place to lie down or sit—a bed, couch, or comfortable chair works perfectly. Put on headphones and follow a guided NSDR audio track. Unlike meditation, NSDR doesn't require intense focus or prior experience, making it accessible for complete beginners.

What can NSDR be used for?

NSDR is incredibly versatile. Use it to fall asleep faster, return to sleep if you wake during the night, or recover from a poor night's rest. During the day, NSDR protocols help increase focus, energy, and motivation—research shows significant dopamine increases.

When is the best time to do NSDR?

There are three optimal times for NSDR practice: Morning—especially after poor sleep, to reduce the cognitive impact of sleep deprivation. Afternoon—to reset your focus and boost motivation when energy naturally dips. Evening—to transition your nervous system for sleep.

How is NSDR different from meditation?

Meditation typically requires active focus and concentration—following the breath, observing thoughts, or maintaining awareness. NSDR is passive; you simply follow guided instructions without effort. This makes NSDR more accessible for beginners and particularly effective when you're already exhausted or stressed.

How long should an NSDR session be?

NSDR sessions typically range from 10 to 30 minutes. For beginners, start with 10-minute sessions. Research by Dr. Andrew Huberman suggests that just 10 minutes can significantly impact alertness and cognitive function.

Honest Comparisons

How NSDR Compares

Honest, side-by-side comparisons of NSDR with popular focus music apps. See where we excel and where competitors do things differently.

Why pay $60-120/year for focus music?

NSDR offers binaural beats focus tracks, a Pomodoro timer, and NSDR recovery protocols — all free, no account required.

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Brain.fm vs NSDR

AI-generated functional music with neural phase locking

NSDR advantage: Free forever, includes NSDR recovery protocols

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AI Powered$5.99/mo

Endel vs NSDR

Adaptive AI soundscapes with wearable integration

NSDR advantage: No app download needed, free binaural beats

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Neuroscience$7.49/mo

Focus@Will vs NSDR

Neuroscience-curated music with productivity tracking

NSDR advantage: Built-in binaural beats, simpler UX, Pomodoro timer

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Ambient$10/mo

Noisli vs NSDR

Ambient sound mixer with custom combinations

NSDR advantage: Pre-built focus tracks, binaural beats, NSDR protocols

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Ready to try the free alternative?

NSDR Focus Mode gives you everything you need for deep work sessions — binaural beats, lo-fi tracks, a Pomodoro timer, and NSDR recovery. No subscription required.

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