Why Do Hypnic Jerks Happen?
The exact cause of hypnic jerks is not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed to explain why they occur. One prevailing theory suggests that hypnic jerks may be a result of the body’s natural transition from wakefulness to sleep. As your muscles begin to relax and your brain activity slows down, certain neurons may misfire, leading to the sudden muscle contractions associated with hypnic jerks.
Another hypothesis is that hypnic jerks may be linked to stress, anxiety, or fatigue. High levels of stress and anxiety can increase muscle tension, making individuals more susceptible to experiencing hypnic jerks as they try to relax and fall asleep. Similarly, fatigue and irregular sleep patterns can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, potentially triggering hypnic jerks during the transition to sleep.
