How to Induce Sleep Paralysis in Four Easy Steps

Let the record show that there are plenty of "experts" who believe that sleep paralysis is an automatic bodily function-and not necessarily a state that can be induced. Indeed, this is the state of being half asleep/half awake. Most people experiencing sleep paralysis can hear and see the environment around them. But, they are unable to move. These episodes can be extremely frightening, as the person experiencing the paralysis will often detect the presence of another being or entity nearby. It has also been claimed that sleep paralysis is just the first stage of the out of body experience. Medical professionals have identified sleep paralysis, categorizing it two ways: hypnopompic (upon awakening) and hypnagogic (upon falling asleep.)

This particular state of consciousness is incredibly fascinating. For all intents and purposes, it is quite possible to induce this physiological condition. But as the experience isn't always a pleasant one for some people, there are some things that you should know.

First let's examine two specific things that you should avoid before beginning the process:

Refrain from drinking alcohol (or partaking of any mind-altering substances for that matter.) You want to make sure that you have a clear mind in order to distinguish between real and imagined stimuli. Additionally, drinking alcohol will make you drowsy - which leads up to the second point. Make sure you are not sleepy, or excessively tired. Your brain should be as alert as possible before getting started. After all, if you simply drift off into sleep you will miss the entire experience. Here's how to get started.

Step One: Lie on your back in a quiet room.

Studies haven't really explained why lying on one's back seems to induce sleep paralysis more easily. But for some reason it does. Find a comfortable place where you can lie flat on your back. Make sure that the room is free of excessive noise. The only exception should be a white noise machine or one with sound effects that can help you relax.

Step Two: Focus on your breathing.

You probably already knew this was coming. But in most instances where you are attempting to train your body (for athletic purposes or otherwise) attention to breathing is imperative. As the body falls asleep, your breathing becomes more regulated. By inducing sleep paralysis, you are in essence attempting to "trick" the body into an REM state. Take several deep breaths, until you have achieved a relatively slow, yet comfortable rhythm.

Step Three: Relax your body.

This is perhaps the most important step in the entire process. As the experience involves "paralyzing" your body, it is crucial that you are acutely aware of each body part. Hypnotherapists often teach patients how to relax their bodies. The purpose of this experiment is to separate the body from the mind; in order to do that your limbs must be loose and free. Start with either your head or toes, and begin relaxing the muscle groups one by one until you can no longer "feel" them. Your regulated breathing should accompany this step.

Step Four: Become aware.

One of the reasons why inducing sleep paralysis is so tricky is because people tend to fall asleep even if they weren't already tired. Relaxing your muscles groups, clearing your brain, and regulating your breathing tend to mimic the sleeping process. This is only natural. But it is at this point that you must be completely aware of your surroundings. Pay close attention to the sensation of weightlessness. It will even help if you imagine yourself light as a feather. It is also during this stage, that some people report hearing or feeling a buzzing sensation throughout their bodies. Try to tune in to this sensation; it will help your brain to remain "conscious."

While these steps may sound pretty easy, most people will tell you that inducing sleep paralysis can be quite difficult. You may even find that sleep paralysis occurs more easily when you are not trying to encourage it. Something else to consider is the fact that your "paralysis" may last a few seconds or several minutes. But your brain may interpret the time lapse much differently. Try to become familiar with these particular elements before diving into your experience. The more you know going in, the better off (and perhaps less terrified) you will be.

SOURCES:

www.dreamviews.com
www.webmd.com
www.Stanford.edu