Sleep is the greatest rejuvenator; it restores strength to muscles, nerves, and brain. During sleep the body repairs, reenergizes, and prepares for renewed activity. One hour of sleep before midnight is equal to 2 hours of sleep after midnight. During a day of work and activity, toxins build up in our system which cannot immediately be thrown off. These toxins product fatigue—that well-known weariness at the end of the day. Sleep gives the body time to expel wastes and to make repairs.
My brother, you are in need or rest…Make it a habit not to sit up after nine 0’clock. Every light should be extinguished. This turning night into day is a wretched, health destroying habit…, is very injurious to health. It calls blood to the brain and then there is restlessness and wakefulness, and the precious sleep, which should rest the body, does not come when desired. MR vol 9: pg 46.