How to Survive Sleep Paralysis: 7 Things You Should Never Do!

Have you ever found yourself in a state where you're drifting in and out of sleep, unable to move despite being conscious? If so, you might have experienced sleep paralysis.

What is Sleep Paralysis?

How does sleep paralysis differ from other types of paralysis? It typically occurs when you're waking up or falling asleep and is only temporary. You're aware or awake, but your brain is still partially in a sleep state, leaving you unable to move or speak.

This condition can be triggered by various factors, such as irregular sleeping patterns, insufficient sleep, and psychological stress. Sleep paralysis can be a frightening experience, so here are seven things you should avoid doing if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Don’t Let Your Imagination Run Wild

A vivid imagination can be fun, but during sleep paralysis, it can make hallucinations more intense. Sleep paralysis is often associated with hallucinations, which are usually unpleasant. Many people report seeing a sleep demon, and when you're unable to move or speak, this can cause panic. Panicking can make your imagination conjure up even more frightening scenarios.

2. Don’t Believe What You See

Hallucinations aren't real, and believing in them can make things worse. If you see something terrifying and think it's real, you'll panic even more. Understanding that these visions aren't real can help you talk yourself out of fear and panic.

3. Don’t Focus on the Visions

Just like distracting yourself during a scary movie, try to ignore the hallucinations during sleep paralysis. By being aware that these visions aren't real, you can shift your focus away from them and reduce your fear.

4. Don’t Panic

Panic can make the situation worse. Seeing frightening hallucinations while being unable to move is understandably terrifying, but panicking will only make the hallucinations more intense. Keeping calm and tapping into the rational part of your brain can help you get through it until the paralysis passes.

5. Don’t Struggle Strenuously

Struggling to escape sleep paralysis usually doesn't work and can lead to more distress and panic. Instead, try creating small movements in your body, like wiggling your toes or pinky, to help you break free.

6. Don’t Let Your Eyes Wander

If you sleep in a large room or area, letting your eyes wander can result in seeing or creating more frightening visions. It might be best to close your eyes to shut out the hallucinations and focus on calming yourself.

7. Don’t Expect the Worst

Expecting the worst can make the experience even more terrifying. Negative thoughts can amplify your sleep paralysis experience and lead to more dreadful hallucinations. Channeling positive thoughts during these moments can help create a more pleasant experience, like lucid dreaming.

Final Thoughts

Sleep paralysis can be a scary experience, especially for those who are new to it or don't understand it well. Losing the ability to move or speak without warning is frightening. However, by exercising self-awareness, we can better control our reactions.

Share Your Experience

Have you experienced sleep paralysis? What was it like? What did you see, and how did you handle it? Share your stories in the comments below.