What is the effect of yoga nidra (aka NSDR, non-sleep deep rest) on dopamine levels?

Practicing Yoga Nidra, also known as Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR), can notably enhance dopamine levels in the nigrostriatal pathway, which is vital for divergent thinking and creativity. During periods of motionlessness and deep relaxation while awake, there's an increase in dopamine in this pathway. This elevated dopaminergic tone sets the stage for engaging in creative thinking following the relaxation session, though it's important to note that the creative thinking or divergent thinking does not occur during the NSDR session but afterwards 1.

Additionally, research shows that NSDR can lead to up to a 65% increase in dopamine release; this effect is associated with increased theta activity, which is linked to creative and divergent thinking states 2. Another study highlights that even a single Yoga Nidra session can increase the baseline levels of dopamine by about 60%, emphasizing the profound impact this practice can have on the brain’s dopamine system 3.