Blog – Likely Dreaming | Exploring Dreams & Sleep

What Is Sleep Paralysis and How to Stop It

July 21, 2025
Ever wake up in the middle of the night, fully aware—but totally unable to move? Maybe your chest feels heavy. Maybe there’s a dark figure standing in the corner. Maybe it’s just pure panic.

Yeah. That’s sleep paralysis.
And it sucks.

What Actually Happens?

Sleep paralysis is kind of a glitch between sleep and wake. Your brain wakes up, but your body is still in REM mode—aka temporarily paralyzed so you don’t act out your dreams.

You’re conscious, but stuck in your own body.
And sometimes your dreaming brain keeps doing its thing, which is why you might hallucinate weird sounds or shadowy figures.

Why Does Sleep Paralysis Happen?

Some people experience it once in a lifetime. Others deal with it more regularly.
Here’s what usually triggers it:
- Sleep deprivation
- A messed-up sleep schedule
- Stress or anxiety
- Sleeping on your back
  - 🧪 Studies have shown that sleep paralysis is 3–4 times more likely to happen while sleeping on your back. One study found that people who experienced recurrent sleep paralysis episodes were most often in the supine (back) position during REM sleep when it occurred. (Cheyne et al., 2002 – PubMed)
- Napping too long during the day
- Irregular REM cycles (especially if you’re waking up a lot at night)
Basically, anything that messes with your sleep rhythm makes it more likely.

Is It Dangerous?

Nope. Not physically.
It just feels terrifying.

Most episodes last less than a minute, and then your body catches up and you can move again. But if you don’t know what it is, it’s easy to think you’re dying or being haunted by a demon. (You’re not.)

Even though the experience lasts only a few moments, those seconds can feel like the longest of your life—especially when you’re completely unable to move and being stared down by a terrifying dark figure.

How to Stop Sleep Paralysis

There’s no magic switch, but here’s what actually helps:
- Get enough sleep — seriously
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule
- Sleep on your side, not your back
- Avoid screens and stress right before bed
- Don’t overdo naps, especially late in the day
Some people find that tracking their sleep or keeping a dream journal helps spot patterns.

How to Deal With Sleep Paralysis When It Happens

If you wake up and realize you can’t move—don’t panic. That just makes it worse.

Instead, try this:
- Focus on slow, steady breathing
- Wiggle a finger or toe if you can—small movements often break the paralysis
- Remind yourself: this is temporary, and you’re safe
- Don’t fight it—stay calm and let it pass
The episode usually ends in seconds, even if it feels longer. The more you understand what’s happening, the easier it is to deal with. And with better sleep habits, you might not have to face it again anytime soon.

I have experienced sleep paralysis while sleeping on my stomach. Although I couldn’t see any figure (since I was paralyzed looking at my pillow), I strongly felt a presence nearby. I heard strange sounds and felt as if something was climbing onto my back, pressing down on me so heavily that it became hard to breathe.
What Is Hypnagogia and Why Does It Happen?

July 20, 2025
Have you ever seen strange flashes of light, random images, or even felt like you’re falling just as you’re drifting off to sleep?

That’s hypnagogia.

It’s the strange, in-between state your mind passes through when you’re not fully awake, but not quite asleep either. And while it might feel random or even a little unsettling, it’s actually a completely normal part of how sleep works.

Hypnagogic hallucinations can be totally random, which often makes them hilarious. No wonder so many memes in this subreddit come from hypnagogia.

What Exactly Is Hypnagogia?

Hypnagogia (also called the hypnagogic state) is the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It’s often filled with short bursts of dream-like thoughts, visuals, or sensations — almost like tiny dreams sneaking in early.

These moments usually happen just before you lose full awareness and fall asleep. For most people, they come and go unnoticed. But if you’re even slightly aware as you’re falling asleep, you might catch a glimpse of them.

What Does Hypnagogia Feel Like?

Everyone experiences it a little differently, but common sensations include:
- Visual flashes – colors, shapes, or even quick scenes
- Sounds – like someone calling your name or hearing soft music
- Falling or jerking – your body might suddenly twitch (a “hypnic jerk”)
- Floating or spinning – weird body sensations that don’t match reality
- Thought loops – repetitive or nonsensical thoughts
Sometimes these things can be vivid. But they’re not full dreams — not quite yet.

Why Does Hypnagogia Happen?

When you’re falling asleep, your brain is slowly powering down. But not every part shuts off at the same time.

Your body might be deeply relaxed while your mind is still half-awake. Or vice versa. This uneven shutdown creates space for these strange moments to leak through.

Things like stress, sleep deprivation, and irregular sleep schedules can make hypnagogia more noticeable. It might also happen if you keep waking up in the middle of the night. Hypnagogic experiences are often more common during daytime naps or when you fall asleep slowly and gradually.

Most of my recent hypnagogic memories are from days when I didn’t sleep well and started dozing off during the day — which only proves my point.

Is It Something to Worry About?

No. Hypnagogia is a natural part of the sleep process. Most people experience it in some form — even if they never notice it.

That said, if these experiences are disturbing or come with other sleep issues (like sleep paralysis), it’s worth looking at your sleep habits more closely.

But on its own, hypnagogia isn’t harmful. In fact, it’s a sign your brain is moving toward sleep.

Final Thoughts on the Hypnagogic State

Hypnagogia is a doorway. You pass through it every time you fall asleep, whether you realize it or not.

For most people, it’s just a brief blur. But for others, it’s a fascinating glimpse into how the mind slips into dreamland.

If you’ve ever felt caught between sleep and waking — seeing things, hearing sounds, or feeling like you’re floating — now you know: that was hypnagogia. And it’s nothing to fear.

Just part of the quiet process of drifting away.

$Green string-like fractal hypnagogic visuals when falling asleep.$
Why Do I Have Recurring Nightmares?

July 19, 2025

Recurring nightmares are frustrating. You wake up sweating, heart pounding, mind racing—and sometimes it’s the same dream all over again. Why?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Even I have gone through phases of recurring bad dreams. Here’s what might be causing them—and a few simple ways to stop them.

1. Stress and Anxiety

This is the most common cause. If you’re going through a tough period—school pressure, relationship problems, or just everyday life stress—your brain might process that tension through dreams.

The problem is, it can become a loop: stress → nightmare → poor sleep → more stress.

Tip: Journaling before bed or doing a short breathing exercise (like 4-7-8 breathing) can help calm your nervous system before sleep.

In addition, exercising and eating well are key foundations for a less stressful life—keep that in mind.

2. Past Trauma or Unresolved Emotions

Nightmares often repeat when your mind is trying to work through something it hasn’t fully processed. This could be an old memory, a recent event, or even a feeling you’ve been avoiding.

If you keep having the same nightmare for a very long time, it’s likely caused by some deeper trauma. When I was young, I used to have a very bizarre, terrifying, and abstract nightmare where everything somehow went wrong because of one small mistake—and it was unfixable. And to this day, I still sometimes have dreams like that.

Tip: Writing down your dream and asking, “What could this represent?” can help uncover hidden meanings.

3. Sleep Disorders or Disrupted Sleep

Waking up multiple times a night, having an irregular sleep schedule, or experiencing sleep disorders like sleep apnea can lead to more intense REM sleep—where most nightmares occur.

Tip: Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Even on weekends. Yes, really.

4. Medications or Substances

Certain medications—especially antidepressants, beta blockers, or even melatonin in high doses—can affect your dreaming patterns.

Tip: If the nightmares started after beginning a new medication, talk to your doctor. Never stop meds on your own.

5. Recurring Dreams With a Message?

Some believe recurring nightmares are more than just random—they’re trying to tell you something. A fear you’re not facing? A change you need to make?

Not everything has to be symbolic, but it’s worth asking: What part of my life feels stuck or out of control right now?

Final Thoughts on Recurring Nightmares

Recurring nightmares aren’t just “in your head”—they’re real experiences that can seriously affect your sleep and wellbeing. But with a little awareness and some simple tools, you can begin to break the cycle.

If nightmares are affecting your life often or severely, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional. You don’t have to deal with them alone.
How to Stop Waking Up at 3am Every Night

July 18, 2025

You fall asleep just fine, but somewhere around 3am, your eyes open. You’re wide awake. Maybe anxious. Maybe just… alert.

And then you lie there. Again. Every night.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone — I’ve dealt with it myself from time to time. Here’s what might be causing it — and a few simple ways to fix it.

1. Stress hormones kick in too early

Cortisol starts rising in the early morning, but if you’re under stress, that rise might come too soon. Your body thinks it’s time to act — not sleep.

What to try:

Avoid screens before bed. Write down your worries. Try deep breathing or a short guided meditation before sleep.

2. Low blood sugar wakes you up

If you eat too little before bed, your blood sugar might drop overnight. Your body releases adrenaline to bring it back up — and suddenly, you’re awake.

What to try:

Eat a small snack before bed. Something with protein and complex carbs works best (like a banana with peanut butter or a boiled egg with toast).

3. You wake at the end of a REM cycle

Around 3am, you’re often finishing a dream. If something interrupts you right then — noise, temperature, tension — you might not fall back asleep.

What to try:

Make sure your room is dark, quiet, and cool. Earplugs, blackout curtains, and even white noise can help.

4. Your mind kicks in

Sometimes the body’s fine, but the brain starts running. Plans. Regrets. Random thoughts. And you’re stuck in your head for an hour.

What to try:

Don’t pick up your phone. Don’t overthink it. Focus on your breath. The 4-7-8 breathing trick works for many.

Wrapping it up

Waking up once at night is normal. But waking at 3am every night — and struggling to get back to sleep — is often a sign something’s off.

Listen to your body. Adjust what you can. Fortunately, many times the situation can fix itself as time goes on, even if any of these don’t immediately work.
How to Do the 4-7-8 Breathing Technique: A Simple Way to Fall Asleep or Relax Fast

July 16, 2025
If you’ve ever found yourself lying in bed wide awake, struggling to fall asleep, this might help.

The 4-7-8 breathing technique is a simple, science-backed way to calm your body and mind — and it takes under a minute to try.

Here’s how to do the 4-7-8 breathing technique, step-by-step.

What Is the 4-7-8 Breathing Technique?

It’s a breathing pattern designed to slow your nervous system down. It’s often used as a natural way to reduce anxiety, fall asleep faster, or relax quickly.

This method was popularized by Dr. Andrew Weil, and it’s based on ancient yogic breathing practices.

How to Do the 4-7-8 Breathing Technique (Step-by-Step)

Here’s exactly how to do it:
1. Inhale quietly through your nose for 4 seconds
2. Hold your breath for 7 seconds
3. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds, making a soft whoosh sound
4. Repeat the cycle 4 times, or more if needed
You can do this sitting or lying down, at night or anytime during the day.

Why the 4-7-8 Method Works

This breathing technique helps activate your parasympathetic nervous system — the part of your body that tells you to relax and unwind.
- The slow breathing reduces your heart rate
- The extended exhale helps release tension
- The breath hold shifts your focus away from anxious thoughts
Some people use it to fall asleep faster. Others use it to calm down quickly during moments of stress — like before a presentation or after a tough day.

Does 4-7-8 Breathing Help You Sleep?

Many people say yes. It’s not a magic trick, but if your mind races at night, this is a low-effort way to slow things down—and unlike sleeping pills, it has no side effects.

The 4-7-8 breathing technique may also help you fall back asleep if you wake up during the night. And since it helps reduce stress, it might even lower your chances of having nightmares or experiencing sleep paralysis.

Wrapping it up

There are dozens of breathing methods that share similarities, but the 4-7-8 method definitely ranks high in both reliability and popularity—alongside box breathing and the Wim Hof method.

Now that you know how to do the 4-7-8 breathing technique, try it tonight. It only takes a minute — and you might be surprised how fast your body responds.

If nothing else, it’s a simple tool to keep in your back pocket when life gets noisy.
I Couldn’t Trust My Best Friend With a Knife – Dream Journal

July 16, 2025

I had a dream where I went camping with two of my best friends, but it ended up feeling kind of anxious and bizarre.

I was going camping with two of my friends. Jack, a good friend of mine, wouldn’t give up a knife he had, which made me uneasy — especially since he was planning to do drugs.

For some reason, I was carrying a bunch of really thin wooden sticks or splinters. I was oddly protective of them and thought Jack had taken them at some point, but later I found them again somewhere.

The setting shifted a bit, and I was getting ready to sleep next to my other friend, Daniel. There were “rooms” filled with people already asleep in crappy bunk beds. The so-called rooms were big holes dug into the ground in the middle of a forest.

Daniel and I climbed around and over the bunk beds, moving from one room to another, until we found a spot for ourselves. Our room was a deep pit like the others, but in its mud walls there were narrow alcoves carved out, each with a mattress inside. That’s where we were about to sleep.

It looked like this
How to Make Your Room Completely Dark for Better Sleep: Ultimate Guide

July 11, 2025
Getting a good night’s sleep is easier when your room is completely dark. Light messes with your body’s natural rhythm and makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Here’s how you can make your room pitch black — yes, even in a Finnish summer where night looks like noon.

Why Does Darkness Matter?

Your body produces melatonin, the sleep hormone, mostly when it’s dark. Even small amounts of light can lower melatonin levels and disturb your sleep cycles. So the darker your room, the better your chances of deep, restful sleep. Kids or adults using a nightlight for “better sleep” are just afraid of the dark—let’s be honest.

Common Light Sources That Sneak In
- Streetlights or car headlights shining through your window
- LED lights from electronics like chargers, clocks, or TVs
- Light leaking in through gaps around doors or windows
Simple Ways to Block Out Light
- Use blackout curtains or heavy blinds—they make a huge difference
- If you can’t get your room fully dark, try a comfortable sleep mask
- Cover or unplug devices that have bright lights at night
- Seal light leaks around windows and doors with weather stripping or tape
Extra Tips for Total Darkness
- Consider blackout shades that cover the entire window area
- Rearrange your furniture so light sources don’t shine directly on your face
- Use dim red or orange night lights if you need some light—these colors mess less with your melatonin
- Block gaps around vents or cracks where light can sneak in
Final Thoughts on Creating a Dark Room for Better Sleep

Making your room completely dark isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the effort. Better darkness means better melatonin production, which means better sleep and better energy for the day ahead. Try these tips and see how much difference it makes.

I’m planning to replace my thin curtains with proper blackout blinds to block all the light coming through the window. Summer nights in Finland are incredibly bright, and it definitely makes both falling and staying asleep harder.
My Neighbour woke me up so I kicked his door – Dream Journal

July 11, 2025

I had this ridiculous dream that kicked off with pure chaos, only to slow down into a strangely peaceful moment.

I woke up early because of some loud noises and racket — it sounded like someone was aggressively opening and closing a door while throwing furniture around the apartment like a maniac. Someone also shouted a typical teasing insult from the Finnish army that only those who served would get.

I was furious and jumped out of bed. Somehow, I knew right away who it was — my neighbor. I walked up to his door and kicked it just as he was trying to open it.

He was stunned and mumbled something angrily. I started to calm down when I saw him coming out of his apartment with two young kids. He claimed he didn’t wake me up. I don’t think I believed him — but now there was another problem: my dog had escaped into the staircase.

Soon my brother, the neighbor, his two kids, and I were down by the outside door trying to catch my dog. For some reason, we had to wait until it was done eating something — which made absolutely no sense, because the dog was right in front of us.

When the dog was done eating, we finally caught it. My neighbor made a few army references, and I knew the bastard who’d caused all the havoc and woken me up was him — but I couldn’t prove it.

The dream, starting with conflict and chaos only to settle down, felt like my mind was trying to show me that things aren’t always as bad as they seem.

Don’t Panic! — The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

My neighbour after destroying my house and waking me up.
The Hornet of Fire – Dream Journal

July 10, 2025

This dream was full of chaos and urgency — fires breaking out unexpectedly and a strange giant hornet causing havoc. It left me thinking about control, fear, and how we react in moments of crisis.

I was walking down a street when I noticed a tree on fire. I pointed it out, and the people I was with immediately started panicking and doing random things. My sister grabbed an oddly thin fire extinguisher from the outside wall of a nearby building and ran toward the trees, spraying wildly in a panic.

By the time I took the extinguisher from her — since she wasn’t really helping — more trees had already caught fire. I started putting the flames out myself.

Then I saw what was causing them: a giant hornet flying from tree to tree, setting them on fire. I kept spraying at it for a long time until it finally fell to the ground. Once it hit the ground, it didn’t seem that big anymore, and I was able to put out the remaining flames.

I believe this dream showed me how my ideal self would react in urgent situations. I’d like to stay calm and calculated under pressure, just like I did in the dream.
I travelled to Thailand in my dreams – Dream Journal

July 10, 2025

I had an especially vivid dream about being on vacation with my family. I visited Thailand within the past year, so I was probably reliving that trip — just in a slightly different setting.

I was on a vacation with my family. It was a warm and lush location — might’ve been Thailand. We were in the resort’s lounge, and there was a guy I went to high school with.

He asked my dad which cabins were ours, as if he knew him. My dad said 2 and 9. He said he was staying in 11.

I was walking somewhere nearby and saw a miniature lighthouse in the middle of a grassy field, surrounded by forest. The lighthouse was an exact replica of a real one I knew, but it was miniature — at least five times smaller than the actual one.

I kept walking around and found a cliff where people were running and climbing up super fast. There was some sporty family there, and even a young kid speed-climbed the cliff within a few seconds. It was just one obstacle in a longer race.

Later, I was in a boat with my sister and my dad. My dad was driving — the boat had a roof and windows. It was narrow, with just one seat in each row. My sister was sitting in front of me, and my dad in front of her. I opened the windows on both sides of me and enjoyed the wind as we cruised along a wide river, surrounded by forests.

A picture from our IRL Thailand trip

The dream was very vivid, especially the ending where we cruised on the river. I could feel the wind and saw everything clearly — just like it was real life.