earlymorning

Early morning is a segment of the day that begins in the hours before or around sunrise and ends as daily activities typically begin. The exact start and end times vary by latitude, season, and cultural convention, but it generally covers the period just after predawn to shortly after dawn in many regions.

Historically, early morning was the primary work period for agrarian societies, when daylight first permitted labor. In modern urban life, it is often a quiet interval characterized by low traffic, light, and a sense of stillness before the routine of work and schooling begins. People may use this time for exercise, study, prayer, or planning the day.

Physiologically, the early morning is associated with the body's circadian cycle. Cortisol levels typically rise during the early hours, promoting wakefulness, while melatonin declines in response to light exposure. Morning light, especially from the rising sun, helps regulate sleep-wake timing and mood.

Cultural perspectives on the early morning vary. Some cultures emphasize dawn rituals, silent contemplation, or markets that operate at first light. In literature and art, the early hours are often depicted as a transitional, reflective domain between night and day. The term "early morning" is flexible and overlaps with related concepts such as predawn, dawn, and civil or nautical twilight.