Many people wonder why they often wake up in the early hours of the morning, especially between 3 and 5 AM. While we might think going to sleep early guarantees restful sleep, it’s surprisingly common to awaken during this “quiet” time.
This time slot is known as the “hour of the wolf,” a phrase from Swedish folklore and made famous by filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. It’s described as the moment when the gap between night and dawn feels darkest, sleep is deepest, and fears can feel the strongest. This period is even associated with a higher number of births and deaths.
The “hour of the wolf” connects with how our bodies function during the night. Around 4 AM, our body temperature, blood pressure, and metabolism slow to their lowest points, as part of the natural circadian rhythm tied to the sun’s rising and setting.
For people with anxiety, these early morning hours can be difficult, as their feelings of worry often peak, making falling back asleep harder.
While some see it as a spooky or supernatural time, science explains it as a natural phase of deep rest, though sometimes filled with restlessness for some.
