How tonight's Beaver Moon could have unexpected affect on your relationship

The full moon has often been linked to strange behaviour throughout history, from erratic moods to sleepless nights, but could it also be causing drama in your relationship? Studies suggest that the lunar cycle can impact a variety of hormonal systems, and there might be some truth to the idea that full moons can cause emotional chaos, miscommunication, arguments, and maybe even break-ups.

Hormonal health expert Mike Kocsis at Balance My Hormones reveals how the full moon could lead to problems in your love life, and how to full moon-proof your relationship. November's full moon, which has had everyone talking on TikTok, will rise in the UK at around 15:55 GMT today (November 5). It is set to be the brightest full moon of the year, and is sometimes nicknamed the Beaver Moon.

This should be easily visible to the naked eye, as long as the clouds cooperate, and will be the second of three so-called 'supermoons' this year - meaning it will look especially big.

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Full moon vs sleep: A domino effect

The most obvious impact of the full moon is sleep disruption, even if you don't notice it. Even if the bright light of the full moon doesn't wake you up, it can cause a chain reaction throughout your body and your hormones; cortisol rises, serotonin becomes dysregulated, and oxytocin can decrease – and this can lead to problems.

Melatonin, the sleep hormone, can decrease during a full moon, making it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Serotonin, which is highly responsive to light exposure, tends to drop in winter due to less sunlight, contributing to conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Lack of restful sleep can make you more emotionally reactive, prone to conflict, and less empathetic, potentially causing relationship issues.

Cortisol (the stress hormone) increases

Many individuals report increased emotional sensitivity during a full moon; a study involving morning and evening blood samples during a full moon and a new moon revealed higher cortisol levels during the full moon.

Cortisol typically peaks in the early morning to aid waking up and decreases throughout the day, but disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle caused by the brightness of the full moon can lead to imbalances in cortisol levels, affecting metabolism, immune function, and even causing emotional instability.

Even if only one person in a relationship experiences increased cortisol due to the full moon, it can result in tension, arguments, and emotional withdrawal. High cortisol levels signal that you're in a state of emotional distress and may indicate it's time to end the relationship.

Serotonin (the mood stabiliser) decreases

Serotonin, the hormone that regulates your mood, sleep, and emotional balance, helps you feel steady, calm, and content. It's abundant in happy and healthy relationships.

However, during a full moon, poor sleep can cause serotonin levels to drop, making you more sensitive and tearful, easily overwhelmed by disagreements and conflict, and less capable of rational thinking during emotional highs.

Oxytocin (the love hormone) decreases

Oxytocin, often referred to as the love hormone, is the emotional adhesive that keeps couples bonded. It's released during moments of connection and trust, playing a crucial role in social bonding, empathy, and intimacy.

However, in stressful times, when cortisol levels are high and sleep is disrupted, oxytocin production can decrease.

This can lead to feeling less connected to your partner and emotionally withdrawn - potentially triggering resentment and insecurity in the relationship, especially if the bond is already under strain.

Oestrogen and testosterone are unbalanced

Oestrogen plays a significant role in regulating sleep, body temperature, and mood. Changes to sleep and emotional stability, like those caused by the full moon, can exacerbate symptoms such as insomnia and mood swings, intensifying them - leading to snapping at each other over minor things that wouldn't usually bother you.

Research has indicated that testosterone levels can dip during a full moon. It's not just a hormone for men, but also plays a significant role in women's health, impacting mood and libido.

Natural declines in testosterone levels occur during menopause and perimenopause, and this decrease can be further exacerbated by the full moon, leading to heightened symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and a further reduction in sexual desire.

Is it possible to full moon-proof your relationship?

While the full moon doesn't directly cause arguments or break-ups, it can trigger subtle hormonal shifts and biological changes that may heighten tension, amplify negative emotions, and reduce your tolerance of each other - these are the factors that can lead to issues.

However, with a bit of self-awareness and understanding of your body and emotions, there are ways to navigate these cycles smoothly, using them as a reminder to take it easy and reconnect with your partner.

Communication is key Recognise that you both might be more emotional or irritable during this period. Validate each other's feelings - even if you're sceptical about the theory, don't dismiss their feelings and emotions as nonsense.

If you're aware that you're often more sensitive during the full moon, give your partner a heads up, so you can both be more mindful.

Bedtime routine is essential

Sleep disruption is a common cause of hormonal changes during this period, so it's crucial to prioritise good sleep hygiene. This includes establishing a calming bedtime routine and ensuring your bedroom is pitch black so that moonlight doesn't disturb your slumber.

Manage stress levels

Cortisol levels spike during the full moon, so it's important to keep stress in check. Consider stress-busting activities like deep breathing exercises, spending time outdoors, yoga, and meditation to help lower cortisol levels.

Adjust expectations

Try to exercise more patience, not just with your partner but also with yourself. Keep in mind that this period of heightened sensitivity and irritability is likely temporary, so try not to take things to heart.

Steer clear of major decisions and stressful discussions around the full moon if you're both susceptible to its effects. If either of you feel overwhelmed, take a breather and give each other some space.

Reframe and reconnect

Rather than viewing the full moon as a catalyst for inevitable conflict, reframe it as a time for introspection and increased awareness. Reflect on the emotions that surface and what they reveal about you, your partner, and your relationship.

If something feels amiss in your relationship, use this time to figure out why and determine your next steps.

By adopting empathetic and proactive strategies, you can transform a potentially challenging period into an opportunity for deeper understanding and connection.