Our ancestors always attributed to the Moon a considerable influence on natural elements, tides or plant growth. It is therefore not surprising that it also has a certain impact on our own body, and in particular on our mood. But can we really speak of “luno-sensitivity”? In this article, we will study the different effects of the full moon on sleep, periods, libido and depression.
The moon and sleep: a millennial connection
For as long as we can remember, the Moon has accompanied our nights and given rhythm to our lives. According to some popular beliefs, its cycle of approximately 29 days would have directly inspired our cycles of wakefulness and rest, long before the appearance of the first clocks or calendars. If this hypothesis is today largely refuted by scientists, the fact remains that the full moon seems to promote insomnia and sleep disorders.
Disturbed sleep: studies to prove the influence of the moon
Even if the link between the Moon and sleep remains poorly understood, several studies show tangible evidence of its influence. For example, Swiss research conducted in 2013 found that the time to fall asleep was increased by 5 minutes during a full moon, while paradoxical sleep decreased by 30%. Similar results were observed in studies carried out in Japan, the United States or Germany.
Periods and full moon: a disturbing coincidence
There is no smoke without fire, they say. And it seems that menstrual cycles continue to add fuel to the fire! Indeed, according to certain ancestral beliefs, the full moon would promote fertility and even influence the rhythm of periods. Although this idea may make you smile, it has nevertheless been supported by some scientific research. For example, a French study published in 2001 suggests that women who were exposed to the light of the full moon would be more likely to become pregnant.
Chinese medicine, a different perspective on the issue
Ancient Chinese medicine also grants an important role to the Moon in the field of fertility. For example, it considers that the new moon (when the Moon is invisible) represents the start of the menstrual cycle, symbolized by the yin (cold/quiet) phase, while the full moon symbolizes the yang (warm/lively) phase, auspicious to fertilization. This approach confirms the idea that the full moon would have an impact on women’s periods and fertility.
The full moon, a boost to boost libido?
Even if the scientific process remains cautious on the subject, some studies seem to suggest that the full moon could actually have an influence on our sexual desire. Thus, a French study carried out in 2011 demonstrated that men were more attracted to women during the full moon. Likewise, another research published in 2009 indicated that the full moon would promote an increase in testosterone levels, the hormone linked to sexual desire in men.
Lunar cycles and female libido
In women, its action on the libido is more complex, but would be no less real. Some studies have shown thatat the time of the full moon, they were more inclined to have sexual experiences outside the marital context. An observation which deserves to be taken with caution, but which nevertheless reminds us that the Moon weaves its web in all areas of our lives.
Moon-sensitivity and depression: when the full moon plays with our emotions
It seems that under the influence of our natural satellite, our emotions can be exacerbated. Thus, the full moon would act as a real emotional disruptor, accentuating our psychological vulnerability and contributing to making us more nervous or stressed.
The power of the Moon on our mood
Here again, studies on the subject are rare and their conclusions are sometimes contradictory. However, some research has shown that the full moon causes a significant increase in emotional manifestations and stress levels in human beings. A phenomenon that could help explain why the full moon is often associated with spikes in accidents or heart attacks.
Although the concrete effects of the full moon on our body are still difficult to prove scientifically, it seems that a good deal of empirical evidence tends to support this popular theory. So, are you moon sensitive? There is no doubt that everyone can answer it based on their own feelings and experiences!
