“I try to scream (though I have great difficulty making any sound), attempt to flail around, anything, to get the attention of my husband. It is a feeling of panic, entrapment, and desperation, so horrifying that I have difficulty describing its magnitude. 4"If my spouse notices my discomfort and responds, in my mind it's never soon enough. One cannot simply tell me to wake up and tap me on my arm. Often, I need to be shaken somewhat to be fully present. At that point, I would not care if he slapped me hard, as the terror of being in that paralyzed state, totally helpless, is overwhelming. Knowing that it will eventually end is uncomfortable. Every second is hell." In this section of the text, "Sleep Paralysis: A Waking Nightmare,” by Lexi …show more content…
Author Lexi Taylor explains the scale of the reaction to sleep paralysis by presenting real-life symptoms and experiences. For example, she describes "additional symptoms: trouble breathing due to a reported pressure on the chest (as if someone or something were sitting on the dreamer's chest); hallucinations (frequently seeing or hearing an intruder in the room); and intense panic. Taken together, the signs of sleep paralysis may explain accounts of "alien abduction" as well as past demon harassment. An intruder's hallucination could explain the presence of an "alien" or "demon." The reason this procedure is so frightening is that our brains do not understand the idea that this experience is not real, as Allegra Ringo writes, "To truly enjoy a scary circumstance, we must know we are in a safe atmosphere. It triggers an incredible fight-or-flight reaction and the release of adrenaline, endorphins, and dopamine. However, the triggers must occur in a safe environment." As most people who suffer from sleep paralysis are unaware that their experiences are not real, this helps explain why the process can be even more