On Wednesday June 12th at 10.58 AM, it was the Summer Solstice also known as the June Solstice, marking the astronomical start of summer in the northern half of the globe. In the southern hemisphere, the Summer Solstice marks the astronomical start of the winter seasons.
The relationships between menstrual cycles and moon cycles has been an area of interest for centuries, with many cultures unwaveringly believing that the two are intertwined. From the solstices to the alignment of the stars, the synchronisation of the two cycles can provide deep insights into the human body and even our innermost psyches.
The lunar moon cycle is the same amount of days as the average menstrual cycle, so is this a coincidence or is there evidence to show this is a real thing?
The idea that the female body is connected to the lunar cycle is ancient and profound, with countless cultures around the world developing traditions and rituals that revolve around it. But how does this mystical connection manifest itself, and what can be learned from it?
Scientifically, there is limited research on the direct relationship between the summer solstice and menstrual cycles. However, it is believed that the increased exposure to sunlight during the summer months can affect the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that plays a role in regulating menstrual cycles.
Changes in melatonin levels can result in altered menstrual cycle length, timing and intensity. Additionally, the summer solstice marks the beginning of summer, which can bring changes to daily routines, stress levels and diet, all of which can indirectly affect menstrual cycles.
We will explore how menstrual cycles and lunar cycles intersect, and how it can affect our lives and health in ways we may never have expected. By looking at centuries of research and folklore, we will learn how the changing cycles can affect hormones and emotions, and investigate whether there is any scientific validity to the belief that our bodies can follow the rhythms of the universe.
Marvellous Tip: It is important to note that every person’s menstrual cycle is unique and can be influenced by a variety of factors beyond the summer solstice.
The Ancient History of the Connection
The relationship between menstrual cycles and moon cycles has been studied for centuries. Ancient cultures from all around the world believed that women are connected to the moon, and that their menstrual cycle follows the lunar cycle.
The Ancient Egyptians believed that the moon was the goddess of fertility, and that a woman’s cycle could be predicted by the waxing and waning of the moon. The Ancient Greeks also held similar beliefs, with the philosopher Aristotle writing that the “seasons of the moon govern the courses of women”. In Native American cultures, the connection between the moon and a woman’s cycle was seen as a source of power and strength. The Aztecs, in particular, believed that the moon had a direct influence on fertility and menstruation.
The connection between the two cycles was seen as a powerful force that could be used as a predictive tool. Ancient cultures developed rituals and practices that revolved around the moon and menstruation, including the use of moon charts to predict when a woman was most likely to conceive. In some cultures, the alignment of the sun and moon was seen as a time of great power and energy, and many festivals and rituals were designed around this time. This was seen as a time of heightened fertility, when women could more easily conceive.
Modern Science and the Connection
Modern science has largely dismissed the idea that menstrual cycles are connected to lunar cycles, and instead suggests that it is our own internal hormones and biology that dictate our cycles. Research has shown that our menstrual cycles are controlled by the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, and that they follow a 28-day pattern. It is true that the length of the cycle can vary, but it is generally consistent and predictable.
However, there is some evidence to suggest that the moon may still play a role in our menstrual cycles. A few studies have shown that women tend to ovulate more often during a full moon, which could suggest that the lunar cycle does influence our biology in some way. It is also possible that the moon could have an effect on our emotions and behaviour. Studies have shown that during the full moon, people tend to feel more energetic and experience shifts in their moods. It is possible that these changes in mood and energy could be related to the lunar cycle.
Examining the Cultural Significance of the Connection
Although modern science may not support the notion that menstrual cycles are connected to lunar cycles, there is still much to be learned from the ancient belief that the two are intertwined. The connection between the two cycles has been seen as a powerful symbol of harmony and connection, and many cultures have developed rituals and practices that revolve around it. This is especially true for women who have long seen the moon as a source of strength and power.
Fertility
In some cultures, the alignment of the sun and moon is seen as a time of heightened fertility, and many festivals and rituals are developed around this time. For example, in some Native American cultures, the full moon is seen as a time of great power, and women are encouraged to celebrate and honour their bodies.
Emotions & Behaviour
The connection between the two cycles can also be a source of comfort and understanding. By understanding the rhythms of the moon and our own bodies, we can gain insight into our own emotions and behaviour, and develop a more harmonious and balanced relationship with ourselves.
Connection With Nature
It can also provide an opportunity to connect with nature and the natural world in a deeper and more meaningful way. By understanding and appreciating the power of the moon, we can gain a greater understanding of ourselves and the universe around us.
What the Connection Means for Today’s Women
The idea that our menstrual cycles and the moon are connected can be seen as a source of empowerment and understanding for today’s women. By understanding the relationship between the two, we can gain insight into our own behaviour and gain a deeper understanding of our bodies and emotions. It can also be a source of comfort.
Many cultures have long seen the moon as a source of strength and power, and by connecting with the moon, we can tap into this power and gain a greater sense of peace and balance. The connection between the two cycles can also be a helpful tool for women who are trying to conceive.
White Moon Cycle – associated with growth, manifestation, and abundance.
When women ovulate with the full moon and menstruate with the new moon. It is influenced by the increased amount of bright light from the full moon and sunlight. It really connects with the four phases of the menstrual cycle because with each new period, you cycle with a new moon. The highest rates of conception are on the full moon or the day before! It makes sense because this is when you are most fertile. It is thought that women in the white moon cycles are in the fertile stage of their life.
Red Moon Cycle – associated with release, letting go, and cleansing.
If you are cycling in reverse this is called the Red Moon Cycle. This is when you menstruate with the full moon and ovulate with the new moon. These women are thought to be medicine women, wise women, midwives or healers because they can help menstruating women while they themselves are ovulating. This allows them to have more energy to give while helping and teaching others.
By understanding and tracking the phases of the moon, women can get a better idea of when they are most likely to conceive. Ultimately, the connection between the two cycles is an ancient and powerful one. By understanding the relationship between menstrual cycles and lunar cycles, we can gain insight into our own bodies and emotions, and develop a deeper connection with the natural world.
Suggestions for Further Exploration
If you are interested in learning more about the connection between menstrual cycles and lunar cycles, there are a few ways to explore the topic. First of all, you can research and read up on the topic. There is a lot of information available online, and it can be a great way to gain an understanding of the subject.
You could also keep a journal of your own menstrual cycle, lots of apps available to do this and observe how it corresponds to the phases of the moon. This can help you to gain an understanding of your own body and emotions, and can provide insights into the relationship between the two cycles.
Finally, you could explore some of the rituals and traditions that have developed around the connection between the two cycles. This can help you to gain a deeper understanding of the power and significance of the connection.
Conclusion
The connection between menstrual cycles and lunar cycles has been a source of fascination and mystery for centuries. Although science does not fully support the notion that the two cycles are connected, there is still much to be learned from the belief that the two are intertwined. Understanding the relationship between the two cycles can be a source of empowerment and understanding for women, and can help us to gain a deeper appreciation of our bodies and emotions. It can also be a useful tool for women who are trying to conceive, and can provide insights into the rhythms of the universe. At the end of the day, it is up to each of us to decide whether or not we believe in the mystical connection between menstrual cycles and lunar cycles. But learning more about it can be an enlightening and empowering experience, and can help us to gain a greater understanding of ourselves and the natural world.
