“Go to bed with a grateful heart and wake up with a purpose—each night and morning shaping the best version of you.”

What time do I go to bed and wake up currently? Let me share my sleep routine with you—and why it matters so much!

Right now, I aim to go to bed around 10 p.m. and wake up at 6 a.m., giving myself about eight hours of sleep. This schedule aligns perfectly with what many sleep experts recommend for optimal rest and health[6]. Why 10 to 6? Because around 9 p.m., our bodies start producing melatonin, the hormone that signals it’s time to wind down. By 10 p.m., I’m usually ready to fall asleep, and waking up at 6 a.m. means I complete a full night’s rest without cutting into those crucial REM and deep sleep stages[6][8].

Sticking to this consistent sleep-wake time every day—including weekends—helps regulate my internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This rhythm is like my body’s natural timer, telling me when to feel sleepy and when to be alert. When I vary my bedtime or wake-up time too much, it throws off this rhythm, making me groggy and less focused during the day[1][2][4]. Consistency is key!

I’ve also learned that it’s not just about how many hours I sleep but when I wake up in my sleep cycle. Sleep cycles last about 90 minutes, and waking up at the end of a cycle (rather than in the middle) makes me feel refreshed instead of foggy[4]. So, my 6 a.m. wake-up is timed to catch the light sleep phase, making mornings smoother.

Of course, life isn’t always perfect. Sometimes late meetings or stress push my bedtime later, or I wake up feeling restless. But I try to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening and get some sunlight and exercise during the day to support better sleep at night[1][5]. Even a short walk outside helps keep my internal clock on track.

Why do I care so much about my sleep times? Because good sleep impacts everything—from mood and mental health to metabolism and immune function. When I’m well-rested, I’m more productive, happier, and just generally feel better[8]. Poor sleep, on the other hand, can lead to anxiety, sluggishness, and even weight gain.

In short, my current sleep routine of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. isn’t just a habit—it’s a foundation for my well-being. If you’re curious about your own best sleep times, try picking a wake-up time that fits your schedule and counting back 7 to 9 hours to find your ideal bedtime. Then, stick to it as closely as possible. Your body—and brain—will thank you!

So, what about you? What time do you go to bed and wake up? Let’s make sleep a priority and wake up feeling amazing every day!

Citations:
[1] Tips on Forming Healthier Sleep Habits – Pine Rest Newsroom https://www.pinerest.org/newsroom/articles/tips-on-forming-healthier-sleep-habits-blog/
[2] What is the best time to sleep and wake up every day? Two specialists explain https://www.womanandhome.com/health-wellbeing/best-time-to-sleep-and-wake-up/
[3] Practicing Good Sleep Hygiene (The Realistic Version) https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/studentmentalhealth/2020/10/20/practicing-good-sleep-hygiene-the-realistic-version/
[4] Sleep Calculator: Ideal Bedtime & Wake Up Times – Sleepytime https://sleepopolis.com/calculators/sleep/
[5] Breathe Easy, Sleep Well: A Guide to Healthy Sleeping Habits | Blog … https://www.depts.ttu.edu/rise/Blog/sleepawareness.php
[6] Exactly When You Should Go To Sleep & Wake Up, From A Neuroscientist https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/ideal-time-to-go-to-sleep-and-wake-up-from-neuroscientist
[7] Sleep Blog | Tips, News and Information https://sleepeducation.org/blogs/
[8] Best Time to Sleep and Wake Up According to Science https://www.betterup.com/blog/best-time-to-sleep-and-wake-up
[9] 80+ Best Sleep Related Blog Post Topics & Content Ideas [2025] – Starter Story https://www.starterstory.com/sleep-products-business-blog-post-ideas
[10] I wake up at 5:00 a.m. — and I love it – The Black and White https://theblackandwhite.net/72415/opinion/i-wake-up-at-500-a-m-and-i-love-it/