NSDR
OK to fall asleep

Slow Exhale — Settle

nsdr
Guided · 10 min
10:27

remaining

0:0010:27

A slow, breath-led practice that gently draws the exhale longer and softer, settling the body and inviting a calmer, quieter state.

Type

nsdr

Best Time

Anytime you feel wound up, or as a way to wind down at the end of the day

Duration

10 min

Mode

Guided

Phases

1Welcome45s
2Settle50s
3Natural breath54s
4Lengthen the exhale40s
5A few rounds, your pace1m11s
6If it feels easier1m2s
7Let the exhale soften you1m16s
8Soften the face50s
9Soften the shoulders40s
10Soften belly and hands50s
11Quiet rest2m13s
12Gentle return38s

Benefits

A softer, calmer body as the breath slowsA gentle shift toward rest and settlingRelease of held tension in the jaw, shoulders, and handsA quieter, more grounded feeling to carry with you

NSDR puts your brain into a state similar to sleep while remaining conscious. It is perfectly okay to fall asleep. Your body will get what it needs.

About This Practice

A slow, breath-led practice that gently draws the exhale longer and softer, settling the body and inviting a calmer, quieter state.

Benefits

A softer, calmer body as the breath slows
A gentle shift toward rest and settling
Release of held tension in the jaw, shoulders, and hands
A quieter, more grounded feeling to carry with you

When to Practice

Anytime you feel wound up, or as a way to wind down at the end of the day

How to Practice

Find somewhere you won't be disturbed, and settle into a position you can hold comfortably — sitting or lying down both work well. Have something soft beneath you if you like. Let the guidance lead the breath, but never force it. If lengthening the exhale ever feels like effort, simply drift back to your natural rhythm and rejoin when it feels easy. There is no ratio to hit. When it feels comfortable, simply let the out-breath trail a little longer than the in-breath. At any point, you can return to your natural rhythm.

Science & Research

Slow breathing is commonly used to support relaxation. Some people find a slightly longer exhale comfortable, but ease matters more than reaching any particular pace.

Tips

Let the exhale, not the inhale, be the focus — an out-breath a little longer than the in-breath is the heart of this practice.
Breathe through the nose where you can, keeping the breath quiet and smooth.
If your mind wanders, that's completely normal — just return to the next slow exhale.
A folded blanket or cushion under the knees or head can make lying down more comfortable.

Precautions

If lengthening the breath feels uncomfortable, simply return to your natural rhythm. Never practise while driving.