Does the full moon affect your well-being?

Nov 28 / Maria Esther Rodriguez






Many women experience fluctuations in mood, energy levels, and sleep patterns throughout their menstrual cycle. Folklore often attributes these changes to the lunar cycle, particularly the full moon. While this belief is deeply ingrained in some cultures, let’s see what current scientific research tells us about this potential connection.

Lunar Influence on Sleep

A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Biology investigated the impact of lunar phases on sleep patterns. The research suggests that individuals may experience slight sleep disruptions around and during the full moon, taking longer to fall asleep and achieving less total sleep.

This could be attributed to the moon’s increased brightness, potentially suppressing the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Reduced sleep can undoubtedly affect mood and energy levels, contributing to feelings of irritability or fatigue. Cortisol levels due to fluctuations in its secretion may also play a role, but this study didn’t provide enough data to sustain it.

Fun fact: lunar cycles have been demonstrated to have an influence in some marine species, highlighted in the same article.

The Moon and Menstruation: An Unresolved Question

The potential link between the full moon and menstrual cycles remains a topic of ongoing investigation. An analysis published in Science Advances identified a possible correlation, but only in women whose menstrual cycles closely align with the lunar cycle (approximately 29.5 days). Further research is necessary to determine whether a true biological connection exists. Check out this book to learn more about your menstrual cycle and all the factors that affect it.

Optimizing Your Well-Being Throughout Your Cycle

Regardless of the moon’s influence, there are steps you can take to optimize your well-being throughout your menstrual cycle.


Prioritize a Sleep Routine: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Consider blackout curtains or facemask to minimize the impact of moonlight on your sleep environment. Go to bed at the same time and minimize use of screens 1 hour before going to bed.

Listen to Your Body: Acknowledge and respect your body’s natural fluctuations in energy levels. Schedule demanding activities for times when you feel most energized, and allow yourself rest when needed. If you’re a woman, respect your cycle, our bodies need more rest and sleep during menstruation.

Embrace Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, adjust your diet to your menstrual phase or stage of life! Engage in regular physical activity, and practice stress management techniques. These lifestyle choices contribute significantly to overall well-being.

The full moon may not directly control your emotions, but being aware of its potential influence can empower you to navigate your inner cycle with greater understanding and self-care. Remember, you are the captain of your own well-being, and by prioritizing healthy habits, you can ensure a smooth and balanced journey throughout your cycle.

If you want to learn to better manage your emotions, check out this course!

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