What is Sleep Paralysis? Everything You Need to Know About Sleep Paralysis

Numerous physiological changes occur in the brain during sleep. During the REM period, which is the most important stage of sleep, all of the muscles in the body become temporarily paralyzed. In the meantime, if consciousness is opened and paralysis continues, sleep paralysis, which we know as nightmare, occurs. Although this has been scientifically explained, people continue to link sleep paralysis to paranormal activity, black magic, and mythical creatures. So what exactly is sleep paralysis? Let's look at the details together.
1. What is sleep paralysis?
Sleep paralysis, popularly known as nightmare, is a temporary loss of muscle function that occurs at the beginning of sleep or during waking. Although this very common condition shows alarming symptoms, it does not require medical attention. Sleep paralysis, which is characterized by symptoms such as inability to move the body, inability to speak, and difficulty in breathing, occurs for reasons such as stress and insomnia.
2. What causes sleep paralysis?
Sleep paralysis occurs when the synchronization between the body and the brain is disrupted. A healthy sleep consists of 5 or 6 cycles. Each of these cycles is completed in 90 minutes. The last phase of sleep, REM cycle, is known as the most intense phase of mental activities. In REM sleep, all of the muscles in the body are temporarily paralyzed.

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