If sleeping is so essential, how come we cannot really control it?

Question

Like the way we can control our muscles, or the way we can hold back peeing. How come we cannot control to fall asleep or to wake up?

In: Biology

Answer 1

I can honestly control not falling asleep better than not breathing or not drinking. And I mean, try to not pee for 24 hours and not to sleep for 24 hours, my bet is that you can control not peeing a lot less than you think. Your body needs certain things and has systems that regulate those things. Sleep is just one of those necessary things your body will force you to do.