Sleep is the new sex. We yearn for it, fantasize about it and require it in ample amounts to keep us sane. But sadly, as is too often the case with the latter, we are getting far too little of the former.

"Reports estimate that 50 percent of the population is operating under a sleep deficit," says Elizabeth Scott, a life coach and counselor in Los Angeles. As About.com's stress management expert, Scott receives nearly a quarter-million visits per month from drowsy readers hungry for a good night's sleep. Rather than direct her flock to the nearest pharmacy, Scott favors a gentler solution. "I believe in a holistic, all-natural approach to sleep," Scott explains. "I think that medication has its place, but I think it's best to first get in tune with the processes taking place in your body."

Guided by images

Imagination can be a sleep aid. Scott suggests using guided imagery, which she describes as a "vivid daydream. It's almost a form of self-hypnosis where you get yourself into a relaxed state of consciousness." To do this, imagine you're wandering through a pleasant natural environment, like a seashore or a forest glade. "You can get guided imagery tapes that walk you through it, or you can just use your imagination," Scott says. Either way, the exercise moves your brain toward a state similar to sleep.

Make meditation your nightcap

Stress is the leading cause of short-term sleeping difficulties, according to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization that studies sleep and sleep disorders. To counter that, Scott recommends a little quiet time. "Meditation is one of the best stress management practices," she says. "And by reducing our stress levels, we can help induce sleep." For those who find meditation elusive—and you're not alone—Scott recommends any pre-sleep activity that accomplishes the same goal, like journaling, painting or practicing yoga.

Sex, the ultimate sedative

Here's where you get two for the price of one: Sex and sleep. "Not only does a healthy sex life enhance your relationship, but it relaxes your body, releases ‘happy' chemicals and even promotes wellness," says Scott. "And, of course, [sex] welcomes sleep." To get in a romantic mood, Scott suggests massaging one another with scented lotions.

Engage in light exercise

Light exercise like yoga or walking can also help promote sleep by relieving tension. While a little exercise in the evening is fine, experts at the NSF warn against engaging in vigorous exercise right before bedtime. "Exercising right before bed will make falling asleep more difficult," says the NSF. The problem: The exercise makes you more alert and increases your body temperature. That's not good, because falling asleep requires a lower internal body temperature.

Watch those naps

Though that afternoon catnap may seem tempting, especially when you haven't been getting your eight hours of shuteye at night, naps should generally be avoided. A regimented wake-sleep schedule synchronizes with the body's natural circadian rhythm, or internal body clock. "Napping longer than 30 minutes will affect your nighttime sleep rhythm," Scott says. Maintaining a regular wake time and bed time will strengthen your body's clock and make it easier to fall asleep at night.