An Awakening

But, she’s not wrong. Many adults with ‘normal’ sleep schedules stir awake between 3:00 and 4:00 in the morning before finding a way to fall back to sleep until the alarm clock announces it’s time for that first cup of coffee. But what’s so special about this time?

Physiologically, it might be explained by your emergence from the REM sleep phase, the deepest sleep possible, when your heart rate slows down, your body temperature drops, and as many bodily functions as possible gently dull so you can get truly deep rest.

In folklore, this early morning time slot is called the “witching hour”, because it’s believed that’s when supernatural activity is highest and more accessible. It’s then that the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is at its thinnest; an opportune time for the spirit world to connect with you. You are nudged awake physically so you can be awakened spiritually. Is there a message or a sign you are meant to receive to which, during waking hours, you are not paying enough attention to or just cannot see? Perhaps these two reasons are related – the spirits dance as the physical body lies quieted from its REM sleep.

If this is true, we are all faced with a choice: accept this connection for what it is and embrace it, engage it. Or, we could continue to complain about it as if we are in control, shutting down the communication with the spirit realm and convincing ourselves we really need this sleep for more important earthly reasons and really can’t be bothered right now by this annoyance.

If we choose to embrace it or at least try it a few times, it’s helpful to center oneself and calm the mind before bedtime. This will benefit both realms. Here’s what experts suggest we do when the spirit world beckons:

• Take some deep breaths to relax,

• Place your arms by your sides, palms face up, signifying that you are ready to receive,

• Breathe deeply and focus on your breathing,

• When ready, ask: “what am I to know, see, or to learn?”

• Trust any and all impressions that come to you; don’t overthink or analyze it.

• Thank your spirit guides and loved ones for the messages, even if they are not clear - you will receive more by expressing gratitude.

• Later, journal your impressions, feelings, and thoughts.

If this is working for you, pay attention to the symbols and synchronicity presenting themselves in your world. Did you notice a particular bird or animal hanging around your home or crossing your path? Was a particular book or movie mentioned to you again and again? Did you hear a song that you haven’t heard in a long time? Are the same numbers always showing up? Is there a message on a billboard you’ve seen hundreds of times but now holds a different meaning? Did you get a call or text from someone you have been thinking about?

These are all signs from the universe and your spirit guides leading you to your highest good. They all have significant meaning. The more you pay attention, the more signals you are likely receive and the better you will be at deciphering their meaning. And, paradoxically, the better sleep you will enjoy.