Getting a full-night’s sleep without any interruptions is something we all desire, especially as it helps us remain refreshed and ready to tackle the day. However, it’s quite common for people to find themselves waking up between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM, struggling to fall back asleep. What many might not realize is that this waking pattern isn’t just a random occurrence. Instead, it carries both historical and physiological significance.

These particular hours are sometimes known as the “hour of the wolf.” This term was introduced by the acclaimed Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. He referred to it as the mysterious time between night and dawn when sleep tends to be the deepest, nightmares seem most intense, and when an unusual number of people are known to pass away. In Swedish folklore, this hour holds significant importance, often associated with a higher probability of both births and deaths. In these early morning hours, one’s body reaches a state where physiological processes such as core temperature, blood pressure, and metabolism slow down to their lowest points as part of our natural circadian rhythm. These changes can be particularly significant for individuals who are prone to anxiety, as this phase may heighten negative feelings, making it even more challenging to return to restful sleep.

In addition to these bodily changes, many cultural beliefs from around the world suggest that this time frame is linked to supernatural activities. Often referred to as the “witching hour,” folklore suggests there’s something mystical about these particular hours. The interplay of these cultural beliefs and biological processes could possibly make waking during this time feel unsettling, especially for those who experience it regularly or those who are more anxious by nature.