March is one of the most important months of 2023 astrologically. March is going to be a game-changer for many people, and this is the month that changes everything for the collective. The month begins in Pisces Season with Mercury entering Pisces on March 2nd. Perspectives are opening to new compassion and guidance right now, and anything feels possible. Mercury in Pisces brings a spiritual approach to the world, and divine clarity is taking place this month- pay attention to the signs.
The Full Moon of the month is happening in Virgo, and this Full Moon will be occurring on March 7th. This Full Moon is the Worm Moon of the year, and new developments are taking place right now. This Full Moon is about letting go of the chaos, getting organized, and focusing on your health and what is worthy of your time. Saturn makes its significant transit from Aquarius into Pisces on the same day, and this is when things start to change. Saturn in Pisces turns the focus from the material to the spiritual. A lot of people will be moving through an inner awakening during this time, and the world at large will be more focused on transparency, compassion for humanity, and learning to trust and grow your intuition and connection to the universe.
When it comes to matters of the heart, Venus enters Taurus on March 16th, and love is about being grounded, supportive, and allowing romance to fill your world. Venus in Taurus is sensual, beautiful, and appreciates the value of love. Don’t be afraid to show others how you feel and focus on what feels stable and secure for you in your relationships right now. On the 20th, Aries Season officially begins, and there is a spark of excitement in the air right now. Aries Season is feisty and the passion runs high during this time. With a New Moon in Aries the next day on the 21st, the end of March is all about independence, courage, and setting intentions for where you want to be.
Pluto moves into Aquarius on March 23rd, where it will remain until 2043. Pluto's transits are generational, so Pluto’s move into Aquarius is a big one. Pluto now moving through this air sign is all about the progression of humanity, and about focusing more on what is going to serve the collective rather than just the self. A few days later, Mars moves into emotional Cancer after being in Gemini since August 2022, and this is good news as there will be less mental chaos, and more emotional growth, clarity, and progression.
If you are looking for a change in your life, March is the month it's going to happen for you.
Aries Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleMarch for you is all about not giving up on your dreams, Aries. Open your mind to the possibilities of what is ahead of you, and remember your strength when things feel challenging. With Saturn moving into your 12th house of endings, closure, and healing on March 7th until May 2025, you enter a multi-year journey of resolution, and a spiritual awakening will be occurring during this time.
There is a lot of energy moving through Aries in March with your season beginning toward the end of the month. Starting March 19th, Mercury enters your sign, the next day Aries Season begins, and the day after that on the 21st, there is a New Moon in Aries as well. Change is evident for you in March, and it’s all about knowing the difference between what is out of your control, and what can be transformed.
Taurus Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleMarch is a month of success for you, Taurus. You have gotten your groove back, and you are moving full speed ahead. The support, achievements, and personal growth you have been working toward are all happening for you this month, and there is a lot to be grateful for right now. Align with your determination, focus on your goals, and claim your success.
There is something beautiful happening this month and that is Venus, your ruling planet, entering your sign from March 16th - April 11th. Love is on your side and it’s time to find your balance within your relationships. You are being received especially favorably in March and it’s all about allowing yourself to feel the joy in how far you have come, and the love that is coming your way right now.
Gemini Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis is the month to put the work in, Gemini. March is all about honing in on your skills and talents in life, and also being open to learning something new. Remember that what you put in is a direct reflection of what you get and that it’s time to ground yourself in dreams you are bringing to fruition right now.
Mars has been in your sign for an unusually long time, over six months, and finally moves out of here on March 25th and enters Cancer. With Mars moving out of your sign, you can take a deep breath and release all of the pent-up energy that has been flowing through your world since August 2022. You have learned a lot about yourself during this period, and now you are more clear on what you want to invest in and prioritize moving forward with Mars now moving into your 2nd house of investments and finances until May.
Cancer Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleTrust the process this month, Cancer. It can feel like a lot is happening for you at once in March, and your main guidance for the month is to take things easy and not let life overwhelm you. Take a look at what is true, and what may be self-sabotage stemming from overthinking. Do what you can in each moment, and save what you can’t for another day.
The Full Moon happening this month on the 7th will be moving through your house of communication, and you are receiving important clarity and ready to let go of what’s been mentally impacting your happiness. Mars moves into your sign before the month ends on the 25th, and that sense of feeling drained at the beginning of the month begins to turn around for you now as you enter an action-packed next few months.
Leo Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleMarch is all about perspective for you, Leo. Life is really what you make it this month and the more you can focus on what is working out for you rather than what isn’t, the better. Look at changes to plans as new opportunities and try to see the treasures in what is presenting itself to you this month.
Saturn makes its new journey into your 8th house of transformation, debt, taxes, shared resources, sex, death, and rebirth this month as well. Over the next few years, you will be moving through a time of feeling more challenged when it comes to change and recognizing some fears and emotional patterns that need to be addressed. The month ends with a New Moon in your 9th house of adventure on the 21st, and you are embarking on a new, exciting path.
Virgo Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis is a beautiful month of clarity, pleasure, and patience, Virgo. This month is setting you up to enjoy your time more and appreciate those little moments of bliss. You have planted the seeds, and right now it’s about nurturing your garden of dreams. There is new life upon you in March and you are truly seeing the fruits of your labor over the next few months.
At the beginning of March on the 7th, there is a Full Moon in your sign. This Full Moon is giving your clarity and shining the spotlight on you and who you are. Let go of what doesn’t support you and your growth, and dream big. On the 16th Venus moves into Taurus, and this is good news for you as a fellow earth sign. Love, relationships, and personal finances are all getting a boost of excitement and adventure for you until April 11th. Enjoy your life, Virgo.
Libra Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis is a powerful month for you, and you are manifesting your dreams, Libra. The power is in your hands right now, and you have all the tools necessary to succeed. March is all about offering a new perspective and allowing yourself to give the love you are wishing to receive. Write lists of gratitude, and know that the good you are feeling this month is only the beginning for you.
Saturn moves into your 6th house of health on the 7th where it will remain for the next few years. Health and working matters become prominent in your life, and this is where you should be investing more of your time and energy. Envision what a healthy, good, daily routine would look like for you, then take those steps toward that. The New Moon of the month happens on the 21st, and you are ready to start fresh in love.
Scorpio Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleMarch is a revelation month for you, Scorpio. You are gaining clarity on what experiences need to be laid to rest, and what growth can be enhanced through your positive attention toward them. The month begins with a Full Moon in your 11th house of friendship, and you are seeing who your people are this month. Don’t be afraid to open up and express to your support systems how you are feeling.
Your ruling planet Pluto makes a significant transit in March and that is its move from Capricorn into Aquarius. Pluto has been in Capricorn since 2008, as its transits are lengthy. Pluto will now be in your 4th house of home and family from March 2022 to March 2043. Pluto's attention here brings empowerment into your home life, but you will also be experiencing some intense changes. Generational healing will be taking place now.
Sagittarius Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is all about the vision, Sagittarius. Your empowerment is coming through from your positive and open perspective, and you are seeing things clearly right now. There is a lot of passion and excitement in your life in March, and everything feels possible for you right now. Saturn moves into Pisces on the 7th and into your 4th house, and you will be laying some new foundations in your life over the next few years and will be challenged to find more stability in your life.
On the 21st of the month, there is a New Moon in fellow fire sign Aries, and this is a romantic New Moon for you. Set your intentions for your relationships and love life during this time, and see what blooms for you. March is all about broadening your horizons and considering the possibilities of what is ahead of you. Consider the best possible outcome for yourself- then imagine it going even better than that.
Capricorn Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleBalance is coming into your life this month, Capricorn. You have some important decisions to make this month, and you are also seeing the positive results of past intentions and paths that have been walked on. Karma is on your side right now and with your ruling planet Saturn making a significant transit into Pisces this month, you are feeling more light-heartedness in your life and will be working toward growth with friendships, neighbors, siblings, and business.
Moving further into the month, Venus moves into a fellow earth sign and will be in your house of love, happiness, and romance from March 16th to April 11th. There are a lot of opportunities for bliss coming into your life now and remember to remind yourself that you are worthy of this unconditional love. Express yourself and let the scales come into balance.
Aquarius Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleEverything is coming full circle for you this month, Aquarius. March is your time of culmination and seeing positive progression when it comes to your financial world. Support is there for you, abundance surrounds you, and you are growing. This month is here to bless you and make sure you feel confident, grounded, and like you have everything you need in your life.
One of the most significant transits of the year for you is happening in March, and that is Pluto's entry into your sign. Pluto will be in your sign from 2022 to 2043, and you are moving through a long-term journey of finding yourself, expressing yourself, and feeling empowered doing so. Aquarians are often changing the world in some way, and you are aligning with this power of knowing what humanity needs to grow and progress right now.
Pisces Monthly Horoscope for March 2023
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecoleThere is a settling down happening in your life this month, Pisces. March is a time to honor yourself, your energy, and your perspective, and allow change to take place gracefully. You need more time to figure some things out right now and you are choosing between two opportunities and paths forward. Give yourself space to work things out, and trust that the answers will come to you.
Saturn moves into Pisces on March 7th, where it will remain until 2025. You are entering a new journey of feeling more pressure to grow, develop, and be able to stand on your own for the time being. This time in your life isn’t here to push you around, but it is here to make sure you have enough foundation on your own to withstand the tests of time no matter what comes your way. You are growing, you are blooming, and you always have the power of choice.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Kyra Jay for xoNecole
- 12 Mantras To Cultivate 2023 Energy For The Year Ahead ›
- Saturn In Pisces Horoscopes Every Sign 2023-2026 - xoNecole: Women's Interest, Love, Wellness, Beauty ›
RELATED
A big part of the clarity that is coming through this month is due to Neptune going direct in Pisces on December 10, after being retrograde here since July. With Neptune now direct, we are able to see our inspiration and creativity a little more clearly, providing the perfect energy for dreams and manifestation to be built upon. The smoke is clearing, and it’s up to you to decide what you want to do with this newfound clarity that this transit is bringing. Mercury also moves back into Sagittarius on December 11, which is great for communication and clarity, and the adventures you were trying to see through at the beginning of November come around for you again with greater purpose and support.
On December 15, Mars enters Capricorn until the end of January 2026, and this is the extra push we need to make important changes and to be on the path towards greater abundance, stability, and prosperity. Mars in Capricorn takes care of business, and we have extra energy at our disposal during this time to do so. This transit is an ideal time to focus on your career or financial goals for next year and to start putting some of these plans into motion now. A few days later, we have the New Moon of the month, which will be in Sagittarius on December 19, and this is the perfect New Moon to manifest.
The energy is high, magic is in the air, and it’s all about moving forward with the new beginnings that are inspiring you and bringing you joy to think about right now.
Capricorn Season officially begins on December 21, and this earth sign energy is how we heal, gain closure, and build new foundations in our world. With Venus also moving into a Capricorn a few days later, there is something about peace, prosperity, and security that we are gaining in life and in love as we close out the year, and this is what we need right now. This month is about reflecting on what was, letting go of old hurt, and renewing. December is an ending and a new beginning in one, and there is magic in this space to be created.
Read for your sun and rising sign below to see what December 2025 has in store for you.
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleARIES
December is a full-circle moment for you, Aries. You are seeing the gifts in your world and have a lot of gratitude for the way things have come about for you as of late. There are culminations in your world that are providing you with more abundance, stability, and community, and you are exactly where you are meant to be this month. With the Sun in a fellow fire sign and in your 9th house of travel for most of the month, December is a good time to get out of your comfort zone, explore the world around you, and get your body moving.
Mars, your ruling planet, also makes a change and moves into Capricorn on December 15, which will fuel your inspiration and power in your career space. You are making a lot of professional progress as we close out the year; however, make sure to be more mindful of your competitive drive right now. The New Moon on December 19 is the perfect opportunity for you to create some new plans and goals when it comes to traveling, education, and where you want to gain some new inspiration in your world. Overall, this is a month of things coming together for you serendipitously.
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleTAURUS
December is about trusting your intuition, Taurus. You have a lot on your mind this month, and it’s best to delegate, communicate, and allow yourself some relief by opening up to someone and not feeling like you have to hold everything in. As we begin the month, we have a Supermoon in Gemini happening in your house of income, and the plans and projects you have been building here come to fruition for you now. This is the time to gain clarity on your financial world and to take a look at what spending habits you want to let go of here as well.
With Venus in your 8th house of shared resources for most of the month, you are doing a cleanse on your commitments, partnerships, and business ventures. You are taking a look at what you want to dedicate yourself to in the future, and what commitments you may need to let go of now in order to be in the space you truly want to be, both financially and within some of your relationship dynamics. Before we end the month, we have a New Moon in this same area of your chart, and it’s time to look at the opportunities that are presenting themselves and to trust your internal guidance system to lead you forward.
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleGEMINI
You are moving forward fearlessly this month, Gemini. December is your month of love, passion, and dignity, and you are owning the light that you shine. We begin the month with the last Supermoon of the year, happening in your sign, and you are stepping up to the plate. You are showing up, owning how much you have grown this year, and allowing yourself to heal while also acknowledging that you have done your best and you deserve to have fun in the midst of the changes you are creating.
Mercury, your ruling planet, is officially out of retrograde, and you can use this energy to the fullest potential now. With Mercury in your 7th house of love, it’s time to speak from the heart and to talk about the things that matter and that are inspiring you right now to your loved ones. You never know what kind of epiphanies you may have when you open up the conversation to others. Before the month ends, you have a New Moon in this same love area of your chart, and this New Moon is all about manifesting romance, commitment, and abundance in your world.
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleCANCER
December is an opening for more love, more joy, and more freedom in your life, Cancer. You have come to a place where you hold so much gratitude in your heart for where you are today and where your heart is shining, and things come together for you with more ease right now. With the Sun in your 6th house of health, work, and daily routines for most of the month, you are getting your ducks in a row while also putting more energy and effort into taking care of yourself, your priorities, and your well-being. This month surprises you in many ways, and it’s because you are showing up.
Mars and Venus both move into your house of love, relationships, marriage, and abundance this month, and you are making strides in your love life. You have both of these opposing forces on your side and are being recognized for the love you are while also receiving the love you want. This month, overall, is about focusing more on the positives in your world and letting your heart have its joy. Before December comes to an end, there is a New Moon in Sagittarius, and this is the perfect opportunity to create the plans you want to see through next year, especially when it comes to your work life, colleagues, business ventures, and health.
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleLEO
The scales of karma are balancing, and they are balancing in your favor this month, Leo. December is your month of truth, and of seeing it clearly in your world. The Sun is in your house of romance, pleasure, and happiness for most of the month, and it’s time to relax, be in the present moment, and allow what is meant to be, to be. With a Supermoon in your 11th house of manifestation as December begins, this is a powerful month for seeing your dreams come to fruition, and for feeling like the intentions you have set this year are finally here for you now.
Mars also moves into your 6th house mid-month, and this is the perfect energy to have to move into the new year. You have extra energy at your disposal right now and are feeling fearless with what is possible for you and your daily routine. Before the month ends, we also have a New Moon in a fellow fire sign, Sagittarius, and this is a breakthrough moment for you and your heart. December, overall, wants to show you how loved and supported you are and will be doing so in magical, unexpected, and concrete ways.
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleVIRGO
December is a month of victory, Virgo. You are showing up and experiencing some new successes in your world that move you forward on your path in life. With a Supermoon in your 10th house of career as we begin the month, the effort and intentions you have made this year come into full bloom, and you are being recognized for who you are and the good work you have done. This month is all about showing up and allowing yourself to be seen and loved, knowing that you deserve the support and opportunities you are receiving.
Mars moves into Capricorn on December 15, which brings the passion and excitement into your love life, hobbies, and little pleasures in life that light you up. You want to have fun this month and are going to be walking into the new year with this fearless, happy, and spontaneous energy within you. Before the month ends, Venus also enters Capricorn, and in this same area of your chart, you have a lot to look forward to and believe in right now. Overall, December wants you to be happy and will be doing everything possible to make that happen for you. This is your month to shine, Virgo.
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleLIBRA
December is a month of opportunity for you, Libra. New doors open, and you are financially making breakthroughs this month because of it. December begins with a Supermoon in your 9th house, and you are getting a clearer view of where you have been making strides in your life and how it has all brought you here to this present moment of freedom. This month is showing you what happens when you are fearless with your purpose and when you believe in yourself and what you are worthy of.
Moving further into December, Mars moves into your 4th house of home and family mid-month, and you are closing out the year in your safe spaces. You are spending more time with your loved ones and taking the time to quiet your mind and listen to what your heart has been telling you. Before the month ends, we have a New Moon in Sagittarius, happening in an area of your life that deals with communication. This is a great time for getting the answers you have been looking for and for feeling more clear-headed and confident about the decisions you are making as you move into the new year.
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleSCORPIO
Patience is a virtue this month, Scorpio. December is all about remaining patient and vigilant with what you are creating in your world, and knowing that the universe has your back. It’s time to be reminded of the power of hope, and this month is an opening to greater clarity in your life. There is a lot of energy in your financial zones right now, and this is providing you with new opportunities and new insight; however, the speed at which things come about for you may feel daunting. Keep your head up and eyes focused on what you want and know that you are more than worthy of receiving it.
With Mercury in your 2nd house of income this month, December is a good time to plant new seeds and to think about where you want to be financially a month from now or even a year. This month is asking you to think bigger and to think more long-term so that you can set the appropriate plans into motion now. We also have a New Moon in your house of income before the month ends, and this is when you will see more of your dreams come to fruition in this area of your life, and have more opportunities to build. Overall, December will be teaching you a lot, Scorpio.
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleSAGITTARIUS
Sagittarius Season is here, and there is a lot in store for you this month, Sag. December is all about what you are dedicating yourself to. It’s about setting your intentions and putting the work in to back up your dreams, and about getting things in order so that when the new beginnings come, you are ready for them. The Sun and Venus are in your sign for most of this month, and there are a lot of eyes on you right now. You have the potential to create a new beginning for yourself, and it’s time to invest in yourself, your love life, and your dreams.
Mercury moves into Sagittarius on December 11, and this is giving you another opportunity to see through some of the plans that you had initiated in November. Mercury was retrograde in your sign last month, and there may have been some disruptions to your vision and plans for the future, and now this energy is turning around for you. Before the month ends, we also have a New Moon in Sagittarius, and you are walking through new doors fearlessly. You are catching others by surprise by your growth this month, and you are thinking a lot about your purpose, future, and plans for the new year.
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleCAPRICORN
December is all about the vision, Capricorn. You are moving through a lot of changes and transformations this month, yet they are giving you a chance at a new beginning in the process. You are focused more on the future and what goals you want to manifest for yourself right now, and are ready to let go of what hasn’t been working for you. With the Sun in your 12th house of closure for most of December, this is your time for healing, but remember, healing doesn’t have to be isolating or boring; you can thrive while you renew, and you are this month.
Mid-month, the excitement picks up for you, and you are feeling more energized than you have in a while. Mars moves into Capricorn until the end of January 2026, and you are being proactive with your goals, intentions, and passions. You are a force to be reckoned with this month, and you are making things happen for yourself with confidence. Capricorn Season officially begins on December 21 this year, and this is definitely speeding up your healing process. You are breaking free from what was, and with Venus also moving into Capricorn before the month ends, you are leaving this year in high spirits and with love opening a new door for you.
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleAQUARIUS
December is all about community, creativity, and manifestation, Aquarius. This is the month to work together with others to help bring your dreams to life. You are in a space of inspiration, empowerment, and beauty, and are creating more of this energy around you and in your world. Look out for what support comes your way this month and know that you don’t have to do everything alone to succeed. With the Sun in your 11th house of manifestation and friendship, your intentions are coming to fruition, and it’s time to celebrate with the people you love and to own how far you have come this year.
On December 19, we have a New Moon in Sagittarius, lighting up your life in all of the best ways possible. This is your New Moon of freedom, victory, and magic, and you are seeing new beginnings appear that you were once just hoping for. Before the month comes to an end, Venus moves into your 12th house of closure, and after an active and successful month, you are ready to relax, heal, and give your heart some of the attention it has been asking for. You are moving into the new year with the need to release and renew what hasn’t been working in your relationships, and you are finally ready to.
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecolePISCES
December is a big month for you, Pisces. You are making some huge accomplishments this month, and are feeling like everything you have been through this year has been worth it for these moments that are coming to fruition for you now. The Sun is in your 10th house of career and reputation for most of the month, and this is where a lot of your focus is right now. You are claiming your successes and putting yourself out there in ways that not only serve you, but that inspire others as well.
Neptune officially goes direct on December 10, after being retrograde in your sign since July, and you are finally seeing things a little more clearly. You are feeling renewed inspiration and passion in your life, and your intuition is your strongest asset right now. Before December comes to an end, we also have a New Moon in your 10th house of career, and what happens now not only changes things for you in the present, but it also opens new doors and what is possible for you in the new year as well. Overall, you are on top of your game this month and are owning the joy and empowerment you feel.
Featured image by Kyra Jay for xoNecole
You see the title of this piece. Unfortunately, it is not an exaggeration. If you give me a moment, I will try to explain what is going on and how you should move, going forward, if melatonin is something that you have been relying on in order to get a good night’s rest.
What Is Melatonin?
GiphyOkay, so what exactly is melatonin? It’s actually a hormone in your system that your body produces in order to regulate your circadian rhythm/sleep cycle. Since melatonin tends to kick in 1-3 hours before you turn in at night, that is actually why “losing an hour” (of sunlight) during this time of the year (check out “Is The Drama Of The One-Hour Time Change All In Your Head?”) can throw off your sleep patterns a bit.
If your body doesn’t seem to have enough melatonin naturally, you might find yourself taking a melatonin supplement in order to increase your melatonin levels, although it should go on record that melatonin is also used to treat seasonal depression; a form of reflux disease (GERD); migraines and headaches; fibromyalgia, and even certain types of anxiety. Melatonin also has a reputation for helping to regulate menstrual cycles and slow down the aging of skin and hair. Something else to keep in mind? When melatonin is in supplement form, oftentimes, it is synthetic, which means that it is made in a lab.
Okay, so clearly, melatonin is needed and, as a supplement, it has its benefits.
Then there is the other side of the story. One that just recently came out.
Why Is the Supplement Currently a Cause for Alarm?
GiphyGeeze. There really is no telling how many times I have shared one of my all-time favorite quotes in my content here: “The excess of a virtue is a vice.” Aristotle is the author and it is so very true — including when it comes to melatonin usage. Because here’s the deal: If you are relying on a melatonin supplement to get some sleep, it’s important to note that most health experts say that you shouldn’t take it for more than 1-2 months, tops.
One reason is because melatonin shouldn’t be a “solution” to your sleep problems, so if you can’t get rest without it after several weeks, it really is time to see your doctor. Another reason is because melatonin supplements do have some potential side effects including nausea, vomiting, irritability, restlessness and disorientation. And then there is what has recently come out about it: the possibility of heart failure and even death.
Wild, right? Here’s the deal about that. Did you know that, according to the American Medical Association, the FDA doesn’t regulate most supplements? So, in the case of melatonin, specifically, while one brand might contain a certain amount of it, another may have a ton more. And when someone uses melatonin, consistently, for 12 months or more, they put themselves at a whopping 90 percent increase of heart failure over those who don’t take the supplement at all (the same goes for individuals who have two melatonin prescriptions filled within 90 days of each other vs. those who don’t). Something else to keep in mind? People (involved in the study) who took melatonin were 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure than those who don’t use the supplement too.
Since this is relatively new research, experts are trying to get to the root of why all of this is the case; however, one cardiologist did say that sometimes insomnia itself is the result of an underlying health issue; sometimes one that has to do with one’s heart. So, taking melatonin might further mask a health problem that needs to be immediately addressed. Sleep apnea is one that he mentioned.
These are pretty alarming results, no doubt. Now does this mean that you should avoid melatonin like the plague altogether? Eh. It’s more like you shouldn’t be using it for more than a couple of months. You should talk to your doctor if you are “treating” your sleep issues with it. And it’s always best to find more natural approaches to getting things that you need into your body. When it comes to melatonin, specifically, I’ve got a few ideas.
Other Ways to Get More Melatonin into Your System
GiphyOkay, so what are some other approaches to getting melatonin into your body?
Eat foods that are high in melatonin. Some of them include almonds, fish, milk (which is why a cup of warm milk tends to help), mushrooms, grapes, pineapples and eggs.
Stay in the light as much as possible during the daytime. Something that I like is for it to be rainy, dark and cold (whatever haters — LOL). That’s why I had to adjust the twinkle lights in my living room during the daytime because your natural melatonin levels react to darkness. So, if you’re in the dark all day, that can have your levels all over the place come nightfall.
Make sure that your room is hella dark. Remember what I just said about darkness? Well, even dim light can suppress your melatonin levels. This includes your phone’s screen, okay? So, when it’s time to go to sleep — the darker your room is, the absolute better.
Go easy on the java. It doesn’t really make sense to drink coffee at night since it’s a stimulant; however, even if it’s your jam throughout the day, 1-3 cups should be your limit and definitely earlier in the daytime. The reason? Some studies reveal that caffeine has a way of lowering your natural melatonin levels.
Have more sex. I don’t know too many people who don’t have a GREAT night’s sleep after sex. One reason why is because certain hormones within the body increase during the act; one of them is — yep, you guessed it — melatonin.
5 Other All-Natural Sleep Supplements to Consider
GiphySo, now that we’ve unpacked the current issue with melatonin supplements, if you’re wondering if there are any other sleep-based alternatives for you to consider, the answer is “yes” and here are a few of ‘em.
1. Magnesium. Something that I am forever going to be a fan of is the combination of magnesium, calcium and zinc. All work together really well to calm your nerves, so that you can sleep more soundly. When it comes to magnesium, specifically, it helps to regulate your natural melatonin levels while also relaxing your muscles, so that the quality of your sleep improves.
2. Vitamin D. Vitamin D makes the list because there are studies which say that vitamin D deficiencies are linked to certain sleep disorders. This makes sense when you factor in that vitamin D helps to create natural melatonin, it helps to keep your circadian rhythm where it needs to be and it also reduces bodily inflammation (which can also affect sleep patterns).
3. CBD Oil. Although the FDA doesn’t (currently) consider CBD oil to be a supplement, it tends to be marketed as one which is why it also made the list. Since cannabidiol (CBD) is widely used for to bring relief to pain and anxiety, that is why many enjoy using it as a sleep agent as well.
4. Roman and German Chamomile. Did you know that there are different forms of chamomile? Well, the ones that help with sleep (most) are Roman and German. That’s because both contain a flavonoid called apigenin that has a sedative effect to it. When it comes to this suggestion, individuals oftentimes prefer it in tea form.
5. Glycine. If you’ve never heard of glycine before, it’s an amino acid. When it comes to sleeping, a lot of people like it because it’s been proven to help you fall asleep faster, it soothes your muscles and joints and it also helps you to stay asleep once you fall asleep.
____
I know that reading something like this can potentially freak you out. Again, if you’re not downing melatonin like candy and you’re not on it for months and months at a time, you should be fine. If you are on edge, hit up your doctor; they will be happy to explain things further and deeper, I’m sure.
In the meantime, if melatonin is your thing — moderation, please.
After all, the supplement was supposed to be a temporary “fix.” Never a permanent cure.
Which is really what the study is reminding us of.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Shutterstock