One of life’s simple pleasures is going to bed on Friday night without setting an alarm for the next morning. Those extra hours of rest after a long week are incredibly satisfying.
Many of us enjoy sleeping in on weekends, perhaps as a way to catch up on sleep debt accumulated during the workweek. But according to clinical health psychologist Kelly Glazer Baron, this habit might not be as beneficial as we think. “People like to sleep in on the weekends because it makes them feel better,” she explains. “The problem is, you’re at a greater disadvantage for getting on track during the week.”
Research indicates that irregular sleep patterns between weekdays and weekends don’t actually help us adjust to less sleep; instead, we may simply become less aware of its effects. Psychologist Brant Hasler from the University of Pittsburgh suggests a more consistent approach: waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. While this might seem challenging given work demands, aiming for consistency can improve overall sleep quality.
Rather than indulging in long weekend sleep-ins, Hasler recommends balancing sleep with short naps during the weekend and, if possible, during the week. This approach promotes a healthier sleep routine. For instance, instead of fluctuating between five hours of sleep on weekdays and twelve on weekends, aiming for seven hours during the week and nine on weekends can establish a more sustainable pattern.
By prioritizing sleep consistency, you might find yourself less inclined to sleep in excessively on weekends. This adjustment could lead to better overall rest, allowing you to enjoy your weekends fully refreshed—without the need for an alarm.
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