Sleep Paralysis: Understanding the Overlap of Wakefulness and Sleep
In Sleep Paralysis: Understanding the Overlap of Wakefulness and Sleep, host Harith Iskander explores the phenomenon of sleep paralysis, a condition where the mind wakes up, but the body remains in a state of sleep. Learn how the brain transitions between sleep stages, particularly REM, and why the body remains immobile to prevent us from acting out our dreams. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Got Science?, a science magazine series that explores and explains science in everyday life.
Lesson Express
Q: What is sleep paralysis and what causes it?
A: Sleep paralysis happens when you're awake, but your body is still in a sleep state, especially during REM sleep. The brain wakes up, but the body stays paralyzed to prevent us from acting out our dreams.
Q: Why do people sometimes feel scared or anxious during sleep paralysis?
A: The brain's "fight or flight" response kicks in, making you feel like you're in danger, even though you're not. This can create a feeling of fear or being trapped during sleep paralysis.
Q: What factors can make sleep paralysis more likely to happen?
A: Sleep paralysis can happen if you're stressed, sleep-deprived, or have irregular sleep patterns. About 30% of people will experience it at least once in their lives.
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