My main question and an intro?

I'm at/close to APL. I have worn a braid at times to bed but usually just sleep with it down with a satin pillow case. I feel like a high ponytail/loose bun ends up with breakage in the back. What length was wearing your hair up a necessity for sleeping? How do you wear it?

I'm 45 and my hair has mainly been between my chin and shoulders all my life. I was told my hair was too thin/fine to grow. I realized i was damaging my hair by heat styling daily and have done a lot of things to maximize the health of my hair. It's the longest it's ever been! It looks great and has more body than when it was shorter/damaged. I've always wanted long hair. Not sure my end goal...