Sleeping is a vital part of an energetic, fulfilled day, but sometimes getting to sleep can be difficult. Natural sleep aids might be exactly what you need.
Culinary chef and nutritionist Sheree Clark answers a question from a viewer about sleep in this video. You don’t always have to reach for a prescription medication to fall asleep and stay asleep. Sheree starts with a question: What can you change in your life to support your attempts to sleep well without having to reach for a sleep aid of any kind?
Most of us do things throughout the day and toward our bedtimes that get in the way of sleeping. When we exercise, when we eat, how active we are, what we eat, what stimulants we use (like caffeine), our stress levels, noise, light, sleeping with pets, and similar activities all influence our ability to get some shut eye. Examine what’s getting in the way, and make changes. Exercise earlier, and don’t eat too late. Avoid stimulants, and adjust where and how you sleep to find what works for you.
If you’ve evaluated your lifestyle, and you still feel you need some sleep help, try natural sleep aids first. Start with magnesium sulfate, aka Epsom salt. Add it to a bath to help you relax, unwind, and calm both muscles and the brain. You can increase the relaxation with a calming essential oil added to the bath. You can also drink magnesium in supplement forms to calm nerves. Many teas, like chamomile, valerian, and passion flower, can help you relax and fall asleep too. Melatonin is a beneficial supplement that resets your circadian rhythms and promotes sleep. 
Start at the lowest dose, and use it only when you really need it, like when you travel. Lavender and other essential oils can be used to create a calming effect outside a bath too. Use it on your pillow case, behind your ears, or on your feet.
There are plenty of ways to get the sleep you need without getting drastic. Try meditation and breathing techniques as well. Good luck!
