Does going to bed at the same time every night matter?

Yes, it matters. The CDC lists going to bed and getting up at the same time every day as a core healthy sleep habit. A regular schedule helps your body clock know when to feel sleepy and when to feel alert, which can make falling asleep easier and mornings less groggy.

Consistency includes weekends. A big swing, such as sleeping in two hours on Saturday, can leave you feeling like you have jet lag on Monday. If you need to change your schedule, move it gradually by up to an hour or two at a time.

The wake-up time is the best anchor. Get up at the same time, get daylight early, and let your bedtime follow when you feel sleepy.

A fixed schedule is one part of the picture, along with a quiet, cool bedroom, screens off at least 30 minutes before bed, and limited caffeine and alcohol.

If you keep a steady schedule and still have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or feel tired all day, talk to your healthcare provider.

Source: CDC - About Sleep

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