Sleep Paralysis: The Science Behind Being 'Caught by a Ghost' in Your Dreams

• Sleep paralysis is when you're conscious but can't move or speak during sleep, often mistaken for a 'ghost' experience.
• During REM sleep, your brain is active, but muscles are temporarily paralyzed (atonia) as a natural defense mechanism.
• This paralysis prevents you from acting out dreams, protecting you and others from injury.
• It occurs when the brain wakes up but muscles remain in REM atonia, causing temporary inability to move, racing heart, or breathing difficulty.
• Reduce occurrences by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, relaxing before bed, sleeping on your side, and avoiding evening caffeine.

Why It Matters: Sleep paralysis is a temporary, harmless state where your brain wakes before your body, a natural safety mechanism.