UFO news: Doctor lays bare key theory on 'alien abductions'
Alien abductions may sound like something out of a science-fiction movie, but it turns out that a small number of people may 'experience' a similar phenomenon.
Being abducted by aliens might seem like a plot straight out of a sci-fi flick. However, experts suggest that individuals suffering from a lesser-known issue could 'experience' a chillingly similar event.
Dr. Matt Walker, a Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, has dedicated years to studying sleep science. In a recent Instagram post, he illuminated the terrifying phenomenon of sleep paralysis, which only a small percentage of people experience.
"Experiencing paralysis upon waking is known as REM sleep paralysis," he clarified. "Normally, during REM sleep, the brain induces muscle atonia (temporary paralysis) to prevent dream enactment. Occasionally, consciousness can return slightly before muscle control, affecting roughly 25 percent of people.
- Paul McCartney's savage three-word put down of Donald Trump
- Trump closes out Saudi Arabia visit with eyebrow-raising song
"Fascinatingly, REM sleep paralysis experiences often parallel narratives of alleged alien abductions. Dr Eti Simon theorizes that muscle atonia's primary evolutionary function might be restorative, with dreaming subsequently co-opting this physiologic state."
As suggested by Dr. Walker, sleep paralysis refers to a condition where an individual is unable to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up. While it's unclear why this happens, it's generally thought to occur when someone reaches deep REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, typically the stage when we dream.
People who experience sleep paralysis often report feeling a sensation of being pushed down or sensing an unseen presence in the room, which some believe could be behind claims of alien abductions and ghostly encounters, reports Surrey Live.
Psychologist Dr Louise Goddard-Crawley has previously explained to MailOnline: "From a scientific perspective, these hallucinations in sleep paralysis are manifestations of our internal mental processes rather than meaningful messages from an external source. Some people may perceive threatening figures or monsters, while others may experience more neutral or even positive hallucinations.
"The specific form that these hallucinations take can be influenced by cultural depictions, personal beliefs, and individual psychological factors."
DON'T MISS...
The exact causes of sleep paralysis remain somewhat mysterious, but the NHS suggests it could be associated with various conditions such as insomnia, PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, with a higher incidence in individuals with a familial predisposition.
To mitigate the effects of sleep paralysis, experts recommend establishing a consistent bedtime routine and ensuring seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
Additionally, patients are advised to refrain from smoking and avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or caffeine close to bedtime. It's also suggested to avoid sleeping on one's back to reduce the likelihood of sleep paralysis episodes. If you're feeling petrified of falling asleep or are chronically exhausted because of sleep paralysis, it's vital to consult a doctor.
NHS advice also states: "A GP may be able to treat an underlying condition that could be triggering sleep paralysis such as insomnia or post-traumatic stress disorder. If this does not help they might refer you to a doctor who specialises in sleep conditions."
