Q. Can your consciousness force your brain to overcome sleep paralysis?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

No, your consciousness cannot directly force your brain to overcome sleep paralysis. Sleep paralysis is a natural and temporary physiological phenomenon that occurs when the body transitions between sleep stages, specifically between rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and wakefulness. During this state, the brain typically restricts voluntary muscle movements to prevent us from acting out our dreams.

While you are conscious and aware during sleep paralysis, your ability to move is temporarily inhibited by your brain to prevent any physical activity that might correspond with your dreams. This can lead to a feeling of being paralyzed and often comes with hallucinations or a sense of pressure on the chest, which can be distressing.

To overcome sleep paralysis, it's generally best to focus on relaxing and waiting for your body to naturally transition out of this state. Attempting to force movement or fight against the paralysis can sometimes result in increased feelings of fear or discomfort. Techniques such as slow, controlled breathing or trying to wiggle your fingers or toes gently may help signal your brain that you are waking up and can lead to a smoother transition out of sleep paralysis.

If you experience sleep paralysis frequently or it significantly disrupts your sleep patterns and quality of life, it may be helpful to consult a medical professional or sleep specialist for further guidance and potential treatment options. They can provide personalized advice and interventions to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your sleep paralysis episodes.