Sleep Paralysis is a phenomenon that occurs when a person is temporarily unable to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up. This condition can last for a few seconds to a couple of minutes and often happens during transitions between sleep stages. It is most commonly experienced during REM Sleep, when the brain is active, but the body is in a state of temporary paralysis to prevent acting out dreams.
During an episode of Sleep Paralysis, individuals may experience hallucinations, which can be visual, auditory, or tactile. These hallucinations can be frightening and often lead to feelings of fear or anxiety. While Sleep Paralysis is not harmful, it can be distressing and is sometimes associated with sleep disorders like narcolepsy.