Feeling full moon fever? Unravelling the lunar influence on your emotions and well-being

South Africans, like people across the globe, have always felt a pull towards the moon, especially when it hangs full and bright in our velvet night sky.

There's a magic to it, a whisper that speaks to something deep within us. But is it just folklore, or is there something more to the full moon's influence on our well-being?

Stunning photos were taken of the strawberry moon earlier this month as it rose in the night sky.

According to LAist, a strawberry full moon occurs during the time of year when strawberries fully ripen. The name originated with the Algonquin tribes in the northeastern US, according to the Old Farmer's Almanack.

June 10-11 was the lowest full Moon in nearly two decades, a phenomenon that won't repeat until 2043.

Each full moon throughout the year is given a traditional name that reflects natural events or seasonal changes occurring at that time.

For instance, February’s full moon is the Snow Moon, while July is the Buck Moon since it coincides with the period when male deer, or bucks, begin to grow their antlers.

From the ancient San people’s reverence for the moon as a celestial guide to the Zulu tradition of linking the moon's cycles with agriculture, the moon on Thursday, July 10, holds a special place in our diverse cultural heritage.

Many of us grew up hearing stories about the moon's power, its connection to the tides, and even its supposed influence on human behaviour.

What is the effect of the moon on emotions? Have you ever felt more vitality or agitation during a full moon?

Many believe the full moon amplifies our emotions, bringing what's hidden to the surface. It's like the moon's light shines a spotlight on our inner world, illuminating both the good and the challenging aspects of ourselves.

This heightened emotional intensity can be a double-edged sword. It can lead to increased creativity, passion, and a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves. #

But it can also make us feel more sensitive, irritable, or even anxious. It's like the volume is turned up on our feelings, making everything feel more intense.

The Lunar cycles and well-being are also often associated with a sense of completion and release.

Moon and mental health

Just as the moon reaches its fullest form, it's a time for us to let go of what no longer serves us – old habits, negative thoughts, or emotional baggage.

Think of it as a cosmic decluttering, a chance to make space for new beginnings. Whether it’s folklore or fact, the full moon has long been linked to:

• Trouble sleeping.
• Mood swings.
• Heightened emotions.
• Restlessness.
• A strange sense of clarity or emotional release.

Some hospitals have even reported spikes in ER visits and psychiatric admissions around full moons, although research, like a 2014 study published in the journal "Psychiatry", found no consistent pattern.

While science hasn't definitively proven a direct link between the full moon and emotional effects of the full moon or mental health, some studies suggest a subtle influence on our sleep patterns.

You might find it harder to fall asleep or experience less deep sleep during a full moon. This could be due to the increased brightness of the moon, disrupting our natural sleep-wake cycle.

But beyond the science, there's a deeper, more symbolic meaning to the full moon. It represents a time of culmination, a peak in the lunar cycle. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, so too do our lives have natural rhythms and cycles.

Here are a few tips:

• Embrace self-care: Prioritise rest, relaxation, and activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. A warm bath, a gentle yoga session, or simply spending time in nature can help you ground yourself during this heightened energy period.
• Journal your thoughts and feelings: The full moon can be a powerful time for introspection. Writing down your thoughts and emotions can help you process them and gain clarity.
• Set intentions: Use the full moon's energy to focus on what you want to manifest in your life. Write down your goals and dreams, visualise them coming true, and take concrete steps towards achieving them.
• Connect with your community: The full moon is a time for connection and celebration. Gather with loved ones, share stories, and create meaningful memories.