Dream invader Watch your back
Dare you close your eyes tonight?
he words ‘night hag’, or ‘witch on your back’, conjure up visions of wizened creatures with talons and fangs – and that’s not too far from the truth for those who suffer this nighttime torment. It usually starts with a feeling of pressure on the chest, as if something’s pushing the air from the lungs. Then there’s a falling or drowning sensation, and almost always paralysis. If this isn’t scary enough, these episodes can also trigger ghostly visions of dark, demonic figures or shadowy creatures. Victims report being attacked by something supernatural, and are left feeling drained and shaken. Worse, once a hag invades someone’s thoughts, it rides on their back until dawn, tormenting their dreams.
TSweet dreams!
lthough night hag visitations can be A distressing, they’re not physically harmful. The experience usually lasts a couple of seconds, though it feels much longer, and can be caused by stress or lack of sleep. Here are some tips to banish the hag! Try to alleviate stress. Make time before bed to relax and calm your mind. One way to do this is to go back through your day, retracing your steps. See each event from a distance and know you did your best. Let the images fade, and say to yourself, ‘I am happy and relaxed. I am calm and at peace’. Repeat until you nod off. Make yourself a soothing cup of hot milk with honey, or a chamomile tea, before bed. Avoid sleeping on your back. Research shows victims are five times more prone to attacks in this position. Try to programme your body into sleeping on the side.
Plant power
It’s surprising how many plants can be used in protection rituals. Aloe vera has healing properties, and the leaves are shaped like spears to prevent psychic attack. Keep one on your bedroom windowsill. Blueberry leaves repel spirits. Soak them in hot water and sprinkle the mixture near your bed. Cactus provides a prickly defence to any spiritual onslaught. Keep a small one on your windowsill Rosemary is a good or bedside table. for general strength and power. Keep pots of it a sprig under your pillow in your house, and for protection.