I will never forget my first, and, fortunately, only experience with sleep paralysis. I was about eleven or twelve years old when it happened; I woke up in the middle of the night unable to move. I panicked and wanted to scream, but the words never came out.
After a few seconds, something let go of me and I ran as fast as I could to tell my parents about the episode. In the years that followed I couldn’t understand what happened to me that night, but it fascinated me so much so that I became determined to find out more.
I have, on various occasions, been told that this condition is the work of demons (a very popular belief in some parts of the world); however, I now know that there is a scientific explanation for this phenomenon.
Most people, at some point in their life, will experience Sleep Paralysis. The condition is broadly defined as it sounds – paralysis during sleep. While it may also occur in people who don’t suffer from any apparent sleep problems, sleep paralysis has been linked to narcolepsy, cataplexy and hypnagogic hallucinations. .
Lack of sleep, sudden lifestyle or environmental changes and stress may trigger Sleep Paralysis, and you can take several steps to prevent such episodes:
- Get at least 8-10 hours of sleep every night
- Have a set schedule for bed time
- Avoid consuming alcohol when you are sleep deprived
- Exercise
- Avoid stress and relax few hours before bed time.
- Avoid sleeping in a face upwards or supine position
Sleep Paralysis is not generally considered dangerous and, although some people may be frightened by it (like me), in reality it isn’t anything to be afraid of . If you’d like to find out more about this topic, please visit: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2585517/facts_about_sleep_paralysis.html?cat=5
Have you ever experienced Sleep Paralysis? Share your experience and continue the discussion in the comments below.
By Agnieszka.
-- Important: The Sleep Blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Instead, this website provides general information for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider if you have questions or concerns regarding any medical condition or treatment.