Journey into sleep by Reuters

Many of us routinely force our bodies to fight sleep. We drink caffeinated beverages by day to stay alert and alcohol to wind down at night. Some of us work all night and sleep in daylight. Others switch time zones and struggle with jet lag.

At the same time, neuroscientists are realizing that the timing of our sleep may be just as important as the amount. We are beginning to understand how we might work with, rather than against, the rhythms of our bodies.

This piece aims to take readers on an information-packed, illustrated tour of why scientists are finding that sleep matters more than we know.

The story is packed with science, data, and information graphics to help clearly explain what happens when our bodies sleep and how important its timing is.