Aiding sleep, naturally

<style type="text/css"> .ContentImageRight img { box-shadow: none; } </style>

Sleepless nights are no fun. About.com offers some natural remedies to help one catch some much-needed Zs, including:

• Valerian root: Capsules of this herb, which is not believed to be addictive or leave one feeling groggy in the morning, are available in the supplement section of drug stores and natural-foods stores.

• Relaxation techniques: Yoga and visualization (such as vividly imagining oneself on a tropical island) are excellent methods of relaxation, thus helping one fall asleep faster and sleep longer.

• Diet: Cutting out caffeine and sugar can have a positive effect on sleeplessness, as can eating foods containing tryptophan and magnesium, a natural sedative.