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But what are these fleeting moments called and why do they happen?
We dont always forget about them either.
Its estimated around two thirds of people remember twitching in their sleep the following morning.
There are some lifestyle tweaks you’re free to make to reduce your chances of experiencing hypnic jerks.
For example, adjusting your evening routine and cutting out caffeine, late exercise and other stimulants can help.
Sleep expert Lisa Artis, deputy chief executive ofThe Sleep Charity, tells us more.
What are hypnic jerks?
If youve ever woken yourself up with a jump, this is called a hypnic jerk, Lisa explains.
These are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that occur as you begin to fall asleep.
But it’s possible for you to also experience them during light sleep.
Lisa adds that hypnic jerks are part of the parasomnia group and are quite common.
Its estimated that 60-70% of people remember having them, she explains.
If they happen infrequently, theyre generally not distressing and dont affect your sleep long-term.
What causes hypnic jerks?
Caffeine acts as a stimulant and it can disrupt your transition from wakefulness to sleep.
Its thought that caffeine can also confuse your brain into misinterpreting muscle relaxation as a falling sensation.
This can then cause your muscles to involuntarily jerk or twitch.
Being highly active in the evening can leave you feeling more alert than tired.
If you still want to fit your workout in, find outhow to exercise for better sleep.
Its also thought stress andanxietycan disrupt the transition from wakefulness to sleep.
Lisa tells us more.
Stress and anxiety are common reasons for sleep disturbances, she says.
They can affect your sleep patterns and this can lead to hypnic jerks when you eventually fall asleep.
Being overtired is also a common reason why people can experience hypnic jerks.
Interestingly, sleeping in an uncomfortable position is another culprit.
Its thought fatigue can cause the bodys nervous system to misfire, and this can lead to sleep twitches.
Restless legs syndrome
For most people, twitching in your sleep isnt usually a sign of an underlying condition.
Instead, theyre simply an occasional and unpredictable part of drifting off to sleep.
In these instances, you must visit your GP.
This will make sleep transitions smoother.
Getting outdoors for fresh air or being active during the day can also help to regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
These stimulants can heighten brain activity, increasing the chances of hypnic jerks.
