And is it all the full moon’s fault?

Whether scientists, astrologers or esoterics, they agree on one thing: the moon influences earth and life on earth. For instance, it regulates the tides through its magnetism. Also continents feel the consequence of this magnetism and either raise or lower their position sometimes up to 26 cm.

But are humans also influenced by the moon, in particular full moon? Generally speaking, one has to admit, that so far science has proven merely that the moon has no impact on humans. In the midst of it all, evaluated studies about the connection between the moon and human behaviour, whether homicides or suicides, admissions into mental health institutions, drug consumption, accidents or emergency calls to the police, the reoccurring results were either negative or proved to be doubtful in their methods of conduct. Often, the evaluated period of time was too short, for example, and was therefore affiliated with other reasons like a specific day of the week. Even the widespread belief that full moon causes insomnia could not be confirmed statistically.

But one fact remains without any doubt: the more light surrounds us while we sleep, the less melatonin (sleep hormone) our body produces. This experience may have been the cause for restless sleep in the past, when electric light did not light up our nights yet. Incidentally, hence the bon mot: “… against insomnia during full moon: simply let down the shutters! …”

But indeed, 40 percent of Germans report of their moon sensitivity, according to a survey. It can neither be explained scientifically nor psychologically that one searches for a plausible cause for specific experiences, mostly negative. For example, if an accident happens on full moon, this event will be attributed to full moon. Events in other moon phases remain less important and are evaluated less critical by the observer. Often the personal attitude plays a big part: for instance, who is convinced that they sleep poorly during full moon, will find less sleep due to this expectation alone. And the more people occupy their minds with full moon, the more intensely will this field of information be fed.

However, the truth is that a great need for research in this area remains and that even science with all its statistics and attempts to explain, can never clearly affirm nor negate.

The moon teaches patience. Just like everyone knows that a low is followed by a high and vice versa. How long each of this condition lasts however, can not be predicted in most cases. So it might be helpful for many people to create a time frame for themselves. For example, by believing in the phases of the moon.


Photo: ARMMY PICCA/bigstock.com

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