Do you frequently wake up at 3 or 4 AM with a feeling of intense anxiety? You’re not alone. Many people regularly wake up at this time, and there’s a reason for it.
As your body prepares for the day, it reduces melatonin (the sleep hormone) and increases cortisol (the stress hormone). If you’re dealing with stress, this cortisol spike can wake you up.
Experts suggest simple techniques like focusing on your breath to redirect your mind from spiraling thoughts and help you get back to sleep.