Have you ever noticed that you have trouble sleeping during a full moon?

You're not alone. Ha! So many people say they can’t sleep when the moon is full, and some even experience what’s known as "lunar insomnia."

But does the full moon really affect sleep, or is it just a coincidence? Let’s see how the full moon might influence your sleep patterns and what you can do to sleep better during those bright, moonlit nights.

Does the Full Moon Affect Sleep?

The idea that the full moon affects sleep isn’t new. People have long believed that the moon has some kind of mysterious influence on human behavior, including sleep. But is there any science to back this up?

Research suggests that the full moon impacts sleep for some people. Studies have shown that during a full moon, people tend to take longer to fall asleep, sleep restlessly, and experience less deep sleep overall.

One theory is that the full moon's brightness disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. This internal clock is highly sensitive to light, and the additional light from a full moon might make it harder for your body to wind down and fall asleep.

But, not everyone is affected the same way. While some people may notice a significant change in their sleep patterns during a full moon, others might not notice any difference at all. Factors like how sensitive you are to light, your sleep environment and even your mindset can play a role in how the full moon affects your sleep.

Why Can't You Sleep When There Is a Full Moon?

If you find yourself fighting with the bed sheets during a full moon, there could be several reasons why. Let’s break down the most common factors:

1. Increased Light Exposure

The most obvious reason you might struggle to sleep during a full moon is the increase in light exposure. Even though it’s not as bright as daylight, the light from a full moon can be surprisingly strong, especially if your bedroom isn’t completely dark. The extra light can trick your brain into thinking it’s not time to sleep, making it harder for you to drift off.

2. Heightened Sensitivity

Some people are sometimes more sensitive to environmental changes, including light. If you wake up easily or find it hard to sleep when there’s noise or light, you might be more prone to full-moon insomnia. Your body might react to the subtle changes in light and energy during a full moon, keeping you awake longer than usual.

3. Psychological Factors

There’s also a psychological component to consider. If you know it’s a full moon, you might expect to have trouble sleeping, which can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. Worrying about whether you’ll be able to sleep can make it even harder to relax and fall asleep, leading to a pretty restless night.

What Is Lunar Insomnia?

Lunar insomnia meant that some people have difficulty sleeping during certain phases of the moon, particularly the full moon. It’s a term used to describe the phenomenon where people experience disrupted sleep patterns or insomnia around the time of the full moon. This isn’t an official medical diagnosis, but it’s something that many people report experiencing.

During lunar insomnia, you might find it takes longer to fall asleep, you wake up more frequently during the night, or you don’t feel as rested when you wake up in the morning. While lunar insomnia might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it’s a real experience for those sensitive to the moon’s phases.

Moon Phases and Their Effect on Sleep

The full moon isn’t the only phase that can affect your sleep. Each phase of the moon might have a different impact on how well you sleep, though the effects are most pronounced during the full moon.

1. New Moon

During the new moon, the sky is darker, which can actually be beneficial for sleep. With less light pollution, your body is more likely to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. This phase might be the easiest time to get a well-deserved good night’s rest.

2. Waxing and Waning Crescent

These phases happen as the moon transitions from new to full (waxing) or from full back to new (waning). During these times, the moon’s light gradually increases or decreases. Some people might notice slight changes in their sleep patterns, but these phases generally don’t have as strong an impact as the full moon.

3. First and Last Quarter

The first and last quarter moons create a half-moon effect in the sky. The light during these phases is less intense than during a full moon, so the impact on sleep is usually minimal. But, if you’re particularly sensitive to changes in light, you might notice a slight difference.

4. Full Moon

As discussed earlier, the full moon is the phase most commonly associated with sleep disturbances. The bright light and increased energy during this time can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Effects of Full Moon on Men vs. Women

Interestingly, the full moon’s impact on sleep might differ between men and women. Some studies suggest that women are more likely to experience sleep disturbances during a full moon than men. This could be due to hormonal differences, as women’s sleep patterns are more closely tied to their menstrual cycles, which can be influenced by lunar cycles.

Women may experience more vivid dreams, increased restlessness, or a hard time falling asleep during a full moon. Men, on the other hand, might be less affected by the full moon, but they can still experience shorter sleep durations or less deep sleep.

Tips to Better Sleep During Full Moon

If you struggle to sleep during a full moon, don’t worry. There are several strategies you can try to get better rest:

• Use a Sleep Mask: Blocking out the extra light from the full moon can make a big difference. A sleep mask can help create complete darkness, signaling to your brain that it’s time to sleep. The Bía Smart Sleep Mask is designed for comfort and effectiveness, helping you sleep better even on the brightest nights.
• Create a Bedtime Routine: Establishing a calming bedtime routine can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
• Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light from screens can interfere with your body’s melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Try to avoid screens at least an hour before bed to help your body prepare for sleep.
• Keep Your Bedroom Cool and Dark: A cool, dark bedroom is ideal for sleep. Use blackout curtains to block out any extra light, and keep the room at a comfortable temperature to promote better rest.
• Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: If you find that the full moon causes anxiety or restlessness, practicing mindfulness or meditation before bed can help calm your mind and prepare your body for sleep.
• Consider Melatonin Supplements: If you’re still having trouble sleeping, consider taking a melatonin supplement. Melatonin can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and make it easier to fall asleep. But, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

The full moon has fascinated us for centuries, and its impact on sleep is just one of the many ways it influences our lives. While not everyone is affected by the full moon in the same way, it’s clear that the bright light and increased energy can lead to sleepless nights for some.

By understanding how the full moon affects sleep and taking steps to mitigate its effects, you can enjoy restful nights, no matter what phase the moon is in. Whether using the Bía Smart Sleep Mask, creating a bedtime routine, or practicing mindfulness, small changes can make a big difference in how well you sleep during a full moon.