Sleep paralysis is commonly referred to as "being held down by a ghost" in Chinese culture. Sleep paralysis usually occurs when falling asleep or while waking up, during which the patient feels that they have already awakened and can hear surrounding sounds and see surrounding images, but their body cannot move and they are unable to make any sound. Sometimes it may be accompanied by hallucinations. Most people feel panic at this moment, but fortunately, this condition generally resolves on its own either gradually or suddenly within a few minutes. Due to the feeling of panic during an episode, many people feel scared after waking up and intuitively believe that it was caused by being suppressed by some unknown entity, hence the term "being held down by a ghost".
In fact, sleep paralysis occurs during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of the sleep cycle, which is when we enter deep sleep and begin dreaming. During REM sleep, all of our skeletal muscles, except for the respiratory muscles and eye muscles, are in a state of very low tension. This is a protective mechanism to prevent us from acting out our dreams and potentially harming ourselves or others around us. Sleep paralysis happens when, for some unknown reason during REM sleep, consciousness awakens but the muscles remain in a state of low tension, causing them to not respond to conscious commands.
Actually, sleep paralysis is not uncommon, and many people have experienced it, especially teenagers and young adults aged 20-30. Sleep paralysis can be considered a normal physiological phenomenon, unrelated to ghosts or monsters, and does not have any adverse effects on physical health. It tends to occur more frequently under conditions of high stress, extreme fatigue, irregular sleeping patterns, insomnia, or anxiety. Trying to avoid over-exertion, not staying up late, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can generally reduce the likelihood of occurrence. However, if the frequency of episodes becomes too high and affects one's quality of life, or if it is accompanied by daytime sleepiness, then medical consultation may be necessary for possible medication assistance or differential diagnosis to rule out other potential issues.
Symptoms —— Typically, individuals experiencing sleep paralysis report that they find themselves suddenly unable to move their bodies while falling asleep or waking up. The sensation feels like full-body paralysis. Patients are very aware that they are awake, yet they struggle greatly to move. When the patient manages to "wake up", this symptom often triggers extreme anxiety and fear.
Is there a way to cure sleep paralysis? Currently, there is no known method to completely cure this condition, but you can take steps to prevent its occurrence.
How to prevent sleep paralysis:
Maintain a regular lifestyle, go to bed on time, wake up on time, and eat meals regularly.
Engage in moderate exercise, but avoid strenuous exercise before bedtime.
Avoid staying up late and ensure adequate sleep.
Try to reduce life stress.
Avoid sleeping on your back.
Remind yourself that you're not unique — many people experience similar symptoms.
Finally, relax! You are not in danger, nor are you abnormal. Sleep paralysis is not a harmful condition.
Related articles can be found at:
Article source: http://www.anmianyao55.com