How to Know if You Have Sleep Paralysis

Sleep paralysis can be extremely frightening, especially if you've never experienced it before, and you don't know what's happening. Here's how to tell if you're having sleep paralysis.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Sleep paralyses happens when you are in REM sleep. Your mind starts to wake up, but your body stays in it's natural state of paralysis that normally occurs during REM. The results can be extremely frightening when this happens.

2. Many people panic when they seem to be awake, yet can't move their body. Hallucinations can occur as well, usually auditory hallucinations.

3. People often feel there is a presence in the room with them during a sleep paralysis episode. Other symptoms include loud or buzzing sounds, a feeling of weight on the chest or back, heaviness, panic attacks, and out of body experiences.

4. Sleep paralyses most often occurs when someone is sleeping on their back. It can also seem worse if you're in this position when it happens, as you may feel more exposed, and unable to protect yourself.

[MyJB]

on 6/13/2009 I used to have this when I was a child, quite often, but not anymore. It is frightening. Thanks sharing. 5*

[writersmark]

on 6/10/2009 This has happended to me!!!Its freaky! I've also had lucid dreams. Good article! 5*