What Is Sleep Paralysis Demon & How To Stop?

Did you know? Almost 7.6% of the general population in India experiences sleep paralysis. But in sporadic cases, sleep paralysis is accompanied by hallucinations where you feel like you can hear or see something in the room, which in reality, is absent.

During these sleep-related hallucinations, some come across a sleep intruder, which has also been named a sleep demon.

If you think you have ever seen one, this article is for you. Ahead, we explore more about the sleep paralysis demon and all the remedies you can embrace to prevent this condition. Let's get started!

What Is Sleep Paralysis Demon?

There is so much more to sleep than just going to bed and waking up, don't you think?

Infact, a small percentage of the population, almost 8 in 100 people, go through the phenomenon of sleep paralysis. For some, it may occur only once while others may encounter it often.

This is a condition where you are caught between wakefulness and sleep. Here, your body is still in a dream-like state and completely relaxed whereas the mind is alert. This disconnect between the mind and body for a short time, usually a few seconds to minutes, makes you feel frozen.

Some may also experience frightening hallucinations, like seeing or hearing things that aren't really there, which includes a sleep demon.

Sleep paralysis happens when you are falling asleep or waking up. In most cases, it is harmless and goes away on its own.

Here are some of the sleep paralysis symptoms that are commonly experienced.

• Unable to move despite being awake partially
• Seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t real
• Feel fear and anxiety
• Finding it difficult to breathe

Sleep Paralysis Demon Depictions

Now that you know what is sleep paralysis, let's proceed to understand more about the sleep paralysis demon.

In all the descriptions, two things are always common. The person who goes through this experience feels like they are frozen and unable to move or speak. Second, they feel like they are held down by this unnatural creature.

While they are hallucinations, it can feel incredibly real for whoever is going through it. Now, the depictions of the sleep paralysis demon vary from one individual to another but here are some of the common forms.

Shadowy Figures

One of the usual descriptions of the sleep paralysis demon is that it feels or looks like a shadowy figure. Many describe seeing a dark, human-like entity that stands close to the bed or somewhere in the corner of the room.

Old Hag

Some people may notice seeing an old witch or a woman. She usually sits on the chest and here, you may also find it difficult to sleep.

Monster

Some may sense the presence of a terrifying creature, such as a demonic figure.

An Intruder

Sometimes, it may feel like an intruder has broken it, which can be equally terrifying.

Alien-Like Creature

Extraterrestrial figures may also be creatures that some encounter during the sleep paralysis episode.

Are They Real?

​​No, as aforementioned, the sleep paralysis demon isn't real but just hallucinations that occur during a sleep paralysis demon. They happen when the mind is awake yet your body is asleep.

One of the reasons for these hallucinations is that the mind mixes reality and dreams. So, you may see things that aren't really there.

Therefore, the scary figures that you may see or sense are your mind playing tricks on you. Even though the experience feels very real at the time, it's just a part of the sleep process, and there's no actual danger or supernatural presence involved.

Why Does A Sleep Paralysis Demon Occur?

The hallucinations where you sense a demon is due to sleep paralysis. One of the most common reasons for sleep paralysis is lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep or poor quality sleep can increase the chances of sleep paralysis, and this can further lead to you spotting the sleep paralysis demon.

Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations may also be the reason. What happens here is that when you are in REM, which is a sleep state where dreams occur, you become partially conscious. So, in this case, you are also awake but dreaming. That's when a sleep paralysis demon may appear. A few other reasons that increase the likelihood of a sleep paralysis demon include;

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Too much alcohol
• Jet Lag
• Heartburn
• PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Narcolepsy

How To Stop Sleep Paralysis Demon

Here's how to treat sleep paralysis demon. Take a look!

Improve Your Sleep Hygiene

When we say improve your sleep hygiene, this is what we are trying to convey.

• Create a consistent sleep schedule where you wake up and go to bed at the same time, even on weekends.
• Avoid screen time an hour or so before bed, this includes phones, computers, and TV.
• Keep stress away. You can practice relaxation techniques to help you out.
• Have a relaxing bedtime routine, which can include a warm bath, journaling, etc.

Comfortable Sleep Environment

Discomfort can lead to sleep deprivation, which can cause sleep paralysis, and you spotting the demon. Hence, create a comfortable sleep environment that's cool, cozy, dark, and quiet.

To keep it cool, make sure you set the AC temperature that you find comfortable and can help you snooze without disruptions throughout the night. Next, to keep it cozy, you need an advanced mattress like the Smart Ortho by The Sleep Company. It brings you advanced SmartGrid technology and offers the best sleep of your life.

To keep the room dark, you can bring home blackout curtains and a white noise machine if the outside noise feels too much.

Address Any Underlying Conditions

Sleep disorders like narcolepsy or mental health issues like anxiety or depression can also cause sleep paralysis. Therefore, always address any underlying health conditions you may be suffering from. Don't hesitate and visit your doctor for the right treatment. This can make a difference.

Learn How To Deal With The Sleep Paralysis Demon

During a sleep paralysis episode, train your mind to not give in to fear. Instead, focus on your surroundings and physical sensations to tell yourself that you are safe. You can repeat positive affirmations or have one mantra that tells you that this is just a dream and not real.

Avoid Sleeping On The Back

It is believed that most vivid dreams occur in those who sleep on their back. This position makes it easy for the body to induce sleep paralysis. So, if you are someone who has been having frequent sleep paralysis encounters you can try sleeping on the side. That said, more research is needed on this subject but you can give it a try.

Sleep Paralysis Hypnosis

Today, you will come across self-hypnosis techniques that can be very effective in managing sleep hypnosis or reducing any anxiety. But for this, it is best you speak with a professional so they can steer you in the right direction.

Should You See A Doctor?

If you have suddenly started experiencing sleep paralysis after a change in medication, always speak with your doctor as it can be the reason. Also, if your sleep paralysis episodes are severe or frequent, it is best to consult a doctor because it can also be a symptom of an underlying condition. Medical intervention can help you get better.

Conclusion

Remember, while sleep paralysis can feel frightening, it is normal. Most people will go through it at least once in their lifetime. It is not a sign or symptom of anything serious.

If you experience it often, learn more about the cause and symptoms to have a better understanding of the sleep paralysis demon. You can also come up with techniques to help you out during an episode.

Lastly, don't hesitate to speak with your medical practitioner. They can guide you in the right direction.

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FAQS

What is a sleep paralysis demon?

A sleep paralysis demon is not a real entity but occurs due to hallucinations when you are in a sleep paralysis state. You may sense or see demonic or shadowy figures that aren't actually present.

Why do people experience sleep paralysis demons?

The reason why some experience sleep paralysis demons is because of lack of sleep or hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations. What happens is that you become partially conscious when in the REM state. However, your body is still asleep. And, this lack of coordination leads to sleep paralysis and spotting of the demon.

What are the common symptoms of sleep paralysis?

The most common sleep paralysis symptoms are the inability to move despite being awake, feeling or sensing someone who's not present, a sense of fear or anxiety, and difficulty breathing.

Can sleep paralysis be a sign of a sleep disorder?

Yes, sleep paralysis can be a sign of sleep disorders like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or REM sleep behavior disorder. That said, it is also common to experience sleep paralysis without any underlying condition.