The use of Focused-Attention Meditation Combined with Muscle Relaxation (MR Therapy) in the treatment of Recurrent Isolated Sleep Paralysis (RISP)- two case reports
Archives of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy April 13, 2025 Paulina Wróbel-knybel, Leszek Wołkowski, Hanna Karakuła-juchnowicz
Recurrent isolated sleep paralysis (RISP) is a REM sleep parasomnia with few treatment options. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, the first-line treatment, has limited availability. Meditation-relaxation therapy (MR therapy) is a new option supported by preliminary studies. Two case reports describe MR therapy over an 8-week period. In patient 1, the number and severity of sleep paralysis episodes, as well as worry and stress related to RISP, reduced significantly. In patient 2, who also had an emotionally unstable personality and an eating disorder, RISP did not improve, but depressive symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder decreased and cortisol levels normalized. MR therapy appears promising, though its effect may be limited when other psychiatric disorders coexist.