You might find these feelings familiar. Sleep paralysis hallucinations are alarming; the uncertain state between sleep and wakefulness is scary.
You sense a formidable presence in the room but try as you might, you cannot scream.
Sleep paralysis is universal. Though a sufferer’s experiences vary in type and severity, its symptoms are the same across cultures. Its causes remain unclear, though certain factors may prompt the condition.
A man recounts his sleep paralysis experiences through spine-chilling photographs. They are a stark reminder that this is not a situation in which you want to find yourself. If you have trouble sleeping, you will want to do all you can to avoid this situation.
Features of Sleep Paralysis
Sleep paralysis hallucinations are eerie and leave a person gripped by fear. Almost every sufferer recalls uncannily similar experiences.
1. Being ‘Awake.’
First of all, sufferers may have a feeling of wakefulness, though they are asleep through the process.
2. Realism
Next, hallucinations take part during the Rapid Eye Movement (R.E.M.) period of sleep, so they are part of a person’s wakeful consciousness. That increases their fear factor.
3. Inability to move
Furthermore, as its name suggests, victims freeze during the occurrence. They cannot move at all.
4. Crippling Fear
And, an overwhelming fear grips them. It is so powerful that sufferers cannot explain it. They can only tell you that it was intense.
5. Perceived Presence
Also, there is a fearsome presence in the room. Victims may or may not see it, but they can sense it.
6. Chest pressure
Victims will feel a dead weight pressing on their chests, which they claim is the work of an external, dreadful force. It could explain why they have difficulty breathing.
7. Supine (Sleeping on the back)
What is noteworthy is that sleep paralysis often occurs when suffers lie on their backs. Knowing that most people do not fall asleep this way may bring you some relief.
8. Additional Unusual Sensations
Lastly, a sufferer may have different feelings, including the smell of rotting flesh or an overwhelming sense of death.
Causes of Sleep Paralysis Hallucinations
Mystery shrouds sleep paralysis hallucinations; hence, their exact cause is unknown. However, you may experience them if they have these tendencies.
You may find yourself experiencing sleep paralysis if you lack sleep, or your sleep schedule changes often. Sleeping on your back also increases its likelihood, so you may not want to stay supine while you sleep.
You are a likely candidate for nighttime hallucinations if you have sleep disorders such as apnea or narcolepsy. If you take medication for conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a condition characterized by impulsive behavior, you may find yourself privy to them.
A man recreates his sleep paralysis hallucinations in creepy photos
Photographer Nicolas Bruno recalls his sleep paralysis hallucinations in this set of dazzling pictures. You can feel his terror. The images may reflect his personal fears, so you may wonder if they trigger his condition. Note that the interpretations below each picture are not conclusive.
Preventing Sleep Paralysis Hallucinations
So, what can you do to stop this weird phenomenon? Sleep paralysis hallucinations are traumatic but preventable.
Since the attacks tend to happen when victims sleep on their backs, it makes sense to sleep on your side. Avoid nightcaps like coffee with alcohol. Also, make it a point to get at least seven hours of sleep.
Find ways to calm yourself down. Meditation and recording your nightmares will help you ease your fears.
Sleep paralysis hallucinations, in conclusion, drain your face of all color. That said, you can prevent their occurrence. Practice good health habits and relieve your pressure when possible.
Image credit: Nicolas Bruno
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