Why You Keep Waking Up Between 3 and 5 AM

Waking up between 3 and 5 AM is a common sleep disruption that can leave you tired and frustrated. While occasional waking is normal, frequent awakenings during this window may signal something deeper—physically, emotionally, or even spiritually.

From a scientific perspective, this period coincides with REM sleep, which becomes more active toward morning. Sleep disorders like apnea, stress, aging, or even diet can also cause early waking and difficulty falling back asleep.

Spiritually, some refer to this window as the “Witching Hour”—a time of heightened energy or intuitive awareness. You may be more sensitive to emotional or subconscious messages during this time.

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers another lens: between 3 and 5 AM, the Lung meridian—associated with grief, emotional release, and breath—is most active. The Large Intestine meridian, linked to detox and letting go, follows closely.

Waking at this time may reflect energy imbalances or unresolved emotional stress. If it’s happening often, consider what your body—or your spirit—may be trying to process or release.

Your early wake-ups might be more meaningful than they seem.