12/01/2026
Most people chase hours.
The brain chases rhythm.
Eight hours is a useful guide — but it’s not the whole story.
Sleep quality depends heavily on circadian alignment: when your brain knows the day begins.
A consistent wake time anchors the brain’s clock.
That steady signal helps coordinate melatonin, cortisol, body temperature, and daytime alertness — even after a short night.
When wake times drift, the brain experiences social jet lag.
Sleep duration may look fine, but the nervous system feels off-beat.
After a poor night, sleeping in often adds more confusion.
Going to bed earlier — or using a brief, well-timed nap — is usually more stabilising.
If you’re choosing one place to start with better sleep, start with rhythm.
The brain responds best to consistency. 🧠
Comment SLEEP for my simple sleep checklist.
Neuroscience
