Throughout history, humans have had a keen interest in the moon, creating stories, calculations, and predictions based on its phases. The full moon in particular has acted as a guide and omen for human happenings. Is it true that more accidents happen on full moons? Is there a correlation between the moon’s 29-day cycle and women’s menstrual cycle? Let’s explore!
The ocean’s tides are caused by the moon – True!
Full moons happen when the earth is directly between the moon and sun, therefore illuminating the fullest amount of moon. Tides are caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and sun on the water, and this is stronger during the new and full moon.
There is a Dark side of the moon – False! (kind of)
Earth only sees one side of the moon. The moon turns as it revolves around the earth, always showing us the same side. The other side of the moon isn’t technically darker in colour, but we do not see it from our viewpoint on earth.
The full moon causes people to go a little crazy – False! (Maybe)
The phrase “it must be a full moon,” applies here. For centuries, civilizations have thought that the full moon has mystical qualities that cause people to act differently, even summoning spirits or causing accidents. Scientists have studied these supposed phenomena and have been unable to find a solid correlation between hospital visits and accidents on full moon days. They have, however, noticed about 25% higher incidents in vet visits for accidents with cats and dogs!
The full moon corresponds with the women’s menstrual cycle – Undecided
Women’s cycles vary in length so it is hard to say that this is true. There have been studies showing that peak rates of conception and probably ovulation appear to occur at the full moon or the day before.
The moon is round – False!
The moon is actually the shape of an egg.
What is a Blue Moon?
Typically there are 3 full moons each season of the year. Because of the 29.5 day cycle that the moon has, there is sometimes a fourth full moon in a season, and this is called a blue moon.
Full Moon Names
Many civilizations throughout history have named the full moons throughout the year, usually based on the harvest, growth or planting times, or animal patterns surrounding the time of year. You may recognize some of these names as the names used for seasonal festivals and celebrations. The most well-known names come from Algonquin Tribes and are as follows:
January – The Wolf Moon
February – The Snow Moon
March – The Worm Moon
April – The Pink Moon
May – The Flower Moon
June – The Strawberry Moon
July – The Buck Moon
August – The Sturgeon Moon
September – The Harvest Moon
October – The Hunters Moon
November – The Beaver Moon
December – The Cold Moon
The full moon in current times, for believers, is said to amplify energy – positive or negative. It is a time of renewal, a culmination of the past, and a time to create new intentions for the future. Whatever you believe, the full moon can be something beautiful to look at, inspire children with stories, and make wishes for the future. You can look to local yoga studios and spiritual centres for full moon meditations, festivals and events.
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