Sleep Paralysis: Awake But Frozen

BY: PRAGATI UPADHYAY

Imagine opening your eyes but finding yourself unable to move or cry out—a terrifying state known as sleep paralysis.

Sleep and Wakefulness

Sleep paralysis is a sleep phenomenon where the body stays frozen while the brain becomes alert, creating a frightening experience.

Sleep Disorder

It happens when the brain wakes up from REM sleep, but the body’s muscles remain temporarily paralyzed to prevent physical movement.

Brain Awake, Body Asleep

Many sufferers describe seeing dark shapes, shadow people, or even intruders watching them during an episode—hallucinations fueled by fear.

Shadowy Figures in the Dark

Modern research links it to REM sleep disruptions, showing it’s a natural brain glitch, not paranormal interference.

Science Explains the Fear

Though not harmful, sleep paralysis is terrifyingly vivid—blurring the line between dreams and reality in ways that feel chillingly real.

A Nightmare That Feels Real