Sleeping through the night without interruptions is crucial for feeling refreshed, but many people wake up between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM and struggle to fall back asleep. This pattern has both historical and physiological significance.
This period is known as the “hour of the wolf,” a term popularized by Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. It refers to the time between night and dawn when sleep is deepest, nightmares are most vivid, and many people pass away. Swedish folklore also associates this hour with an increased likelihood of births and deaths.
During these hours, the body reaches its lowest physiological state, slowing down core temperature, blood pressure, and metabolism as part of the circadian rhythm. For those with anxiety, this phase can intensify negative emotions, making it harder to stay asleep. Many cultures also associate this time with supernatural activity, calling it the “witching hour.”
