Sleep Paralysis

Sleep paralysis is beginning to be noticed in the news and many are wondering exactly what sleep paralysis is, what the symptoms are, what causes it, and if there are any cures.

Sleep paralysis is a normal body function that makes us paralyzed while we are asleep. This is actually a precautionary measure of our body to ensure we do not hurt others or ourselves while we are dreaming. Sleep paralysis only becomes a disorder when it is present during the waking state.

Causes of Sleep Paralysis

The cause of sleep paralysis disorder has been associated with stress, anxiety, sleeping on the back, puberty, depression, bipolar disorder, and narcolepsy.

Symptoms of Sleep Paralysis

The symptoms of sleep paralysis include the inability to mover the limbs or the truck which can occur at beginning of sleep or when a person is beginning to wake up. Hallucinations such as seeing things or even auditory when a person believes they hear things. In some cases, odors can also be noted. Feelings of pressure as if someone is holding you down which can bring on fear. Many people feel disassociated with their bodies as if flying above their body.

There are no real cures; however, reducing anxiety and stress has been shown major improvement. Establishing a bedtime routine and sleep environment is one of the top suggestions. A bedtime routine is easy to get into if you have the desire. The main thing is to have a relaxing period prior to going to bed, take a warm bath, or read a relaxing book. You should go to bed at the same time each night and awaken in the morning at the same time.

A sleep environment may be the best thing for anyone that has any type of sleep disorder. For a sleep environment, you will need to have a room that is dark and cool. Take out all distractions, such as the television or computer.

Other great investments are the white noise machine. According to the type of white noise machine you choose, you will be able to have a variety of sound emitted while absorbing all distracting noise inside and outside of your home such as the television in the other room or the neighbor’s dog howling at the moon.

If you have trouble relaxing prior to bed, a tabletop water fountain is a great item for letting you relax. Many people sit by their table top water fountain while reading before retiring. The soothing sounds of the waterfall help to melt away the stress so you can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.