What's the name of that thing?

Margaret · 11 Jan 2009 at 05:17

That makes you suddenly feel like you are falling when trying to sleep or so, it was on QI but I forgot what it was called!

It's something everybody has apparently.

waxapple · 11 Jan 2009 at 05:22

Hypnagogic myoclonic twitch

A hypnic or hypnagogic jerk is an involuntary myoclonic twitch which occurs during hypnagogia, just as the subject is beginning to fall asleep. Physically, they resemble the "jump" made when a person is startled.[1]

Often accompanied by a falling sensation,[2] it is commonly caused by irregular sleep schedules.[3]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypnic_jerk

Margaret · 11 Jan 2009 at 06:12

Thanks.

Azagoth · 11 Jan 2009 at 06:22

Ah, the good old 'tripping over and jumping awake' thing. That does my bloody head in!