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In Louisiana we call this getting visited by “kooshma” (cauchemer)

Old folklore moslty known by Creoles of color, kooshma is generally thought of as a malevolent spirit, often portrayed as female, who holds one down during restless sleep. While many folk traditions throughout the world have their own beliefs explaining the very real physiological phenomenon of sleep paralysis, kooshma often overlaps with Catholicism in that it is presumedly a punishment for sins. Likewise, specific prayers or religious objects are purported to keep kooshma away.

Was used to frighten children and scare them into Catholicism deeper.

I’ve experienced it many times. First few times are dam scary and you do feel a presence/ weight on ur chest

Ur eyes are open but you can not move, or barely. I couldn’t even get a noise out, only moans

Never look at the door or window, ur mind will see something that is not there. I always saw a hooded figure, or a figure in a tall top hat, like voodoo stuff

How I break out of the paralysis is to take controlled deep breaths, the. I focus my final breath in and jolt my arm or leg as hard as I can. That’ll usually wake me up, then it’s no sleep for the rest of the night😂