The Effects Of A Full Moon On People May Be Real

I'm glad to know that it isn't just me that feels like strange things always happen when there’s a full moon.

If you feel like that too.... we may be right, but the reason isn’t in the sky, it may be closer to home... like in our bedroom close.

According to a new study by the University if Washington, the moon cycles can have a major impact on our "human sleep patterns".

Researchers say people go to bed later and sleep less on nights before a full moon. Apparently, this has been going on for centuries, we have blamed the moon for accidents, natural disasters, and even effects on our moods. However the study suggests being cranky, and blaming it on a full moon may have more to do with how much rest we are getting than anything else.

The University of Washington study discovered that sleep cycles oscillate during the lunar cycle. So in the days leading up to a full moon, we generally go to bed later at night and then sleep for less hours overall, and generally have a less satisfying sleep.

According to Prof. de la Iglesia who is involved with the study:

“In general, there has been a lot of suspicion on the idea that the phases of the moon could affect a behavior such as sleep –even though in urban settings with high amounts of light pollution, you may not know what the moon phase is unless you go outside or look out the window."

The professor feels there is still a lot to understand about this effect.