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Sleep paralysis is a phenomenon in which a person, either falling asleep or awakening, temporarily experiences an inability to move, speak or react. It is a transitional state between wakefulness and sleep, characterized by complete muscle atonia (muscle weakness). It is often accompanied by terrifying hallucinations (such as an intruder in the room) to which one is unable to react due to paralysis, and physical experiences (such as strong current running through the upper body). Sleep paralysis has been linked to anxiety disorders, however, it can occur in isolation.

I’ve experienced this before and I have to say that it’s pretty scary. If this happens to you, it’s important to realize that you are not being possessed by an external being. Try to slowly move one of your fingers or toe to regain control of your body.