There’s so much to do in one day that sleep seems to be expendable. It’s not, though, and if we don’t get enough sleep, our beauty suffers (who wants dark circles under her eyes?). It’s also important to health. Best of all, sleep doesn’t cost a thing, and it’s worth the investment of our time.

But what if you’re having a hard time getting enough sleep? Maybe you’ve set aside enough time, but sleep isn’t coming. Wait – before you spend any of your hard-earned cash on a sleeping pill, try these one of these time-tested, inexpensive ideas instead:

Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Get up at the same time every day, and try to hit the hay around the same time too. If you have a hard time getting to sleep one night, make yourself get up at your usual time anyway. Sleep should come a little easier the next night. Train your brain! Use your bedroom only for bedroom activities. And make sure your bedroom is as dark as possible.

Try some relaxation techniques. Sometimes we just don’t know how to let go of stress when it’s bedtime. Take a warm bath – it helps relax and soothe muscles. Use a white noise device to help mask any unusual sounds that might keep you from drifting off into a deep sleep. Conair makes a Sleep Therapy Sound Machine that retails for around $12.

So save your money and your health and get your beauty sleep!