What is sleep paralysis & why it happens?

KATHMANDU: Sleep paralysis, a condition where individuals are temporarily unable to move or speak while waking up or falling asleep, continues to affect many people around the world.

Experts emphasize that while sleep paralysis can be distressing, it is not harmful.

They recommend several techniques to alleviate the experience and prevent future occurrences.

According to sleep specialists, staying calm during an episode is crucial. “It’s important to remember that sleep paralysis is temporary,” says a neurologist. “Focusing on slow, deep breaths can help the body relax and ease the tension that comes with the paralysis.”

Additionally, experts suggest sleeping on your side instead of your back, as this can reduce the likelihood of sleep paralysis.

Establishing a regular sleep schedule is also key, as disrupted sleep patterns are a common trigger for the condition.

For those experiencing frequent episodes, relaxation practices such as yoga or meditation are recommended to reduce stress levels, which can often contribute to the condition.

Sleep paralysis episodes, while alarming, are generally harmless.

However, if the condition persists, medical professionals recommend consulting a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Experts explain why it happens

Sleep paralysis is a phenomenon that occurs when a person wakes up or falls asleep, only to find themselves temporarily unable to move or speak. While the experience can be frightening, experts stress that it is usually not dangerous. Understanding the causes behind sleep paralysis can help individuals manage and reduce episodes.

Sleep paralysis happens when a person’s brain is awake but their body remains in a state of paralysis, a protective mechanism known as REM atonia that prevents physical movement during dreaming. This misalignment between mind and body can create a feeling of being trapped in one’s own body.

The exact causes of sleep paralysis are not fully understood, but several factors have been identified:

1. Sleep Deprivation: Lack of adequate rest or irregular sleep patterns can trigger sleep paralysis episodes.
2. Stress and Anxiety: High levels of emotional stress or anxiety may contribute to the occurrence of sleep paralysis. People under pressure are more likely to experience disturbed sleep.
3. Sleep Disorders: Conditions like narcolepsy, insomnia, and sleep apnea increase the risk of sleep paralysis due to disrupted sleep cycles.
4. Sleeping Position: Some studies suggest that sleeping on your back may increase the likelihood of sleep paralysis, as it may disrupt the body’s natural REM sleep stages.
5. Genetics: Family history of sleep paralysis or related sleep disorders can increase the risk of experiencing episodes.

Experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, reducing stress, and sleeping on one’s side to minimize the occurrence of sleep paralysis.

In some cases, if episodes are frequent or severe, individuals are advised to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.