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Phi Am
A Thai sleep paralysis demon that sits on your chest at night, crushing you and preventing movement. It attacks people who sleep on their backs. Many have died from 'phi am attacks'—the basis of Sudden Unexpected Death Syndrome studies.
Ancient - Present
Thailand
5000+ witnesses
Phi Am is a ghost from Thai folklore associated with sleep paralysis and sudden death during sleep.
The Legend
According to Thai tradition:
Phi Am:
- Is a ghost that attacks sleepers
- Sits on victims’ chests
- Causes paralysis
- May cause death
- Especially dangerous for men
The Attack
How it happens:
- Victim sleeps on their back
- Phi Am enters the room
- Sits on the chest
- Victim cannot move or scream
- Crushing sensation
SUNDS Connection
Phi Am beliefs relate to:
- Sudden Unexpected Nocturnal Death Syndrome
- Brugada syndrome
- Hmong Sudden Death Syndrome
- Young men dying in sleep
- Medically documented phenomenon
Protection
Traditional defenses:
- Don’t sleep on your back
- Wear women’s clothes (for men)
- Sleep with colorful clothing
- Place thorny branches by bed
- Avoid sleeping alone
Cultural Impact
The fear is so strong:
- Some men wear lipstick to sleep
- Cross-dressing to confuse the ghost
- Sleeping with lights on
- Avoiding certain sleeping positions
- Genuine terror
Medical Reality
Modern understanding:
- Sleep paralysis experiences
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Possible genetic factors
- Stress and lifestyle
- Still mysterious deaths occur
Sources
- Thai folklore documentation