For many people, uninterrupted sleep throughout the night feels like a rare privilege.

However, deep, restorative rest is crucial for maintaining productivity and energy during the following day. Even if someone goes to bed at a proper time, it is common to suddenly wake up between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m.—a pattern that may seem random but has significant meaning behind it.

The Origin of “The Hour of the Wolf”

This early morning period is often referred to as “the hour of the wolf,” a phrase introduced by Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman in his psychological horror film. He suggested that this is when sleep reaches its deepest stage, nightmares become more intense, and personal fears feel heightened. Some traditions even claim that these hours are when births and deaths most frequently occur.

According to Professor Birgitta Steene, the idea comes from Swedish folklore, where the time between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m. is seen as a critical moment. During this interval, the body enters complete rest, influencing various biological processes. In many cultures, it is also associated with supernatural activity, with beliefs that witches, spirits, and other entities are most active during these hours.

A Scientific Look at the Early Morning Wake-Up

While folklore offers a mystical view, science provides its own insight. The circadian rhythm—the internal clock that responds to light and regulates bodily functions—causes reductions in body temperature, blood pressure, and metabolism during the night. Around 4:00 a.m., these functions are at their lowest, placing the body in its deepest sleep stage.

However, those who struggle with anxiety may find this time particularly difficult. When the body is deeply relaxed, anxious thoughts can feel more intense, triggering sudden awakenings. Many people report a feeling of discomfort or unease that prevents them from falling back asleep.

Why You Might Be Waking Up at This Time

Waking up consistently during these hours can be linked to stress or anxiety, but other factors may also be involved. These include inconsistent sleep routines, consuming caffeine too close to bedtime, or poor nighttime habits. Sticking to a regular sleep schedule, limiting screen time before bed, and using relaxation methods can help reduce these early-morning disruptions.

Whether viewed through the lens of science or folklore, the phenomenon of waking during the “hour of the wolf” continues to intrigue many. What remains clear is that quality sleep is vital for health and well-being, and gaining insight into what happens in the body during these early morning hours could be the key to improving sleep patterns and overall rest.