when i was younger, i woke up in the middle of a nightmare...but was still in the dream.....and forced myself to open my eyes which was really hard.....is this a subconcious form of AP?

ive also been expirementing with this for a while now, never read up on it just went by what my parents had told me... everytime i get close i force myself back..i think im gunna die or not beable to return....is this possible in this state?? if so how long should one allow themselfs to be in that state before returning?