Long associated with bodily rhythms the moon is considered to have a strong effect on the body and wellness. Some consider the moon influential on sleep cycles, waking cycles, the female menstrual cycle and fertility, and pregnant women during the end of their third trimester.
The Moon and Sleep Cycles
It is not uncommon to hear the complaint, “I didn’t sleep very well last night because of the full moon.” The natural rhythm of the moon usually has something to do with light pollution – a very full moon is too much light for the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, found in the brain, to make sufficient levels of melatonin. Thus, generally speaking, the body feels more rested at the darkest time of the sky, a new moon, and less rested around the brightest time of the sky, a full moon.
For those living in an urban setting or with bright street lamps causing light pollution all month long try using these tips to improve sleep by mimicking the moon’s cycle:
- Mark the new moon and full moon on the calendar, if not already marked.
- At the time of the new moon install room darkening shades on the windows in the bedroom.
- Avoid light stimulation an hour before bed during the week of the new moon (several days before and after the new moon) – this includes computer monitors, television and nighttime driving.
- As the full moon draws close keep one window shade open to allow some light in the room. A low level night light can also be installed in the bedroom to imitate the brightness of a full moon.
The Moon’s Astrological Phase
In astrology, the moon moves in and out of Zodiac signs every two to three days, year round. For example, on December 1, 2009 the moon will be in the sign of Gemini while on December 17, 2009 it will be in Capricorn. By following the daily changes and examining them against Medical Astrology’s interpretation of the Zodiacs, one can follow routines to stay healthy.
Using the above date examples the Gemini day, on December 1, 2009, would be a day governed by the arms, shoulders and hands. For this 48 hour period the body is thought to be more susceptible to both positive and negative influences on this area of the body. Someone with a hand complaint, such as arthritis, could use this period to encourage healing, perhaps by receiving hand reflexology.
On the Capricorn day, December 17, 2009, the next 48 hours are ruling the joints, particularly the knees, as well as hair, skin, nails and teeth. This would be a good time to offer a positive influence such as a gentle facial, nourishing skin cream, or going for a massage. For those with knee complaints be aware of negative strains on the joints during this 48 hour period, avoiding strenuous activities involving the knees.
For a calendar of current Lunar Zodiac positions pick up a copy of Robert Thomas’ The Old Farmer’s Almanac and look under the astrology section. A search of astrology websites may also give current dates of Lunar Zodiac positions. To find out which areas of the body are ruled by which Zodiac signs see the above link on interpretation of the signs.
Sources:
- The Old Farmer's Almanac 2009 by Robert B Thomas.
- The Complete Natural Medicine Guide to Women's Health Kaur, Danylak-Arhanic, Dean 2005 Robert Rose Inc.
- An Overview of Medical Astrology: How the Zodiac Relates to the Body and Health by Amy Kreydin, Suite101.com (link provided above).
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