[rwfromkansas]

Interesting...I have heard similar stories like that of some sort of entity paralyzing people. I can't remember what it may have been, but I don't think it was just an ordinary ghost.

[Momaw Nadon]

[Japedo]

I have heard similar stories like that of some sort of entity paralyzing people.

It's called Sleep Paralysis. I have it,(and it can be very scary if you're not aware of what's going on) and All while growing up my mother use to tell me it was a demon. Everyone... when their in REM sleep are paralyzed. Sleep Paralysis is when you are half stuck in REM and half awake. You can not move one muscle or even talk. However "dreams" can take on a extremely odd reality. It is just a sleep disorder. Doesn't even happen all the time. Lots of time happens more to me when I'm "stressed". But now that I know what it is.. I try to will myself back to sleep! :)

[stands2reason]

I believe they're called night terrors--not an uncommon occurance experienced across all cultures. The typical features: Upon waking or drifting off to sleep, a figure appears over the person, sometimes seemingly "sitting" on his chest. The person cannot move or speak for several minutes, then the figure fades and the person can move again.