Summon the Sandman Sooner

After tossing and turning and counting sheep, many people turn to over-the-counter sleep aids to drift off to dreamland. But if sleeping pills leave you groggy in the morning, think about introducing one or more of these shut-eye enhancers into your bedtime ritual:

Noise machines. The sweet sounds of a rain shower, ocean waves or the rain forest help tune out other sounds that can disrupt sleep. Adjust the volume to a level that’s soothing and not distracting.

Sleep-sound apps. If you're not ready to commit to another device on your nightstand, download one of the many sleep-sound apps available to lull you into slumber.

Eye masks. Too much light can disrupt quality sleep, even if it’s just from the glow of a nightlight or alarm clock. Wear a comfortable eye mask to see if complete darkness makes a difference in your sleeping patterns.

Ear plugs. If noise is your nemesis when it comes to snoozing, ear plugs effectively block out background sounds.

Calming colors. If your bedroom is decorated in loud hues, it may hinder your ability to fall asleep. Create a calming environment in soft blues or warm, neutral shades.

Remember, relying on doodads to doze off does not replace the need for healthy sleeping habits. Create a bedtime ritual that works for you and consider replacing your mattress or pillow if you still can't get comfortable. Sweet dreams!