Sleep Paralysis: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Prevent It
Sleep paralysis is a temporary sleep disorder that occurs when the mind wakes before the body can move. It often happens during the transition between sleep and wakefulness and may involve an inability to speak or move, along with vivid hallucinations or a sense of pressure on the chest. While episodes can feel frightening, sleep paralysis is generally harmless. Common triggers include disrupted sleep schedules, stress, sleep deprivation, and sleeping on the back. Understanding how sleep cycles work and recognizing contributing factors can help explain why episodes occur and how they relate to overall sleep quality and neurological function.
