The month of May continues to up the ante as the majority of the celestial bodies shift from Aries into Taurus and Gemini. On the 3rd, Mercury enters its home sign, Gemini, submerging us into the quickening. Over the next few weeks, your manifestation abilities are moving at the speed of light. Tap into this energy before Mercury goes Retrograde later this month. The New Moon in Taurus invites you to expand your net worth through new opportunities and financial gains. Luck is on your side when Jupiter enters Pisces on the 13th. Check out your horoscope to see what magic May has in store for you!
Aries
May kicks off with Mercury shifting your focus towards your busy daily affairs. To-do lists will help you stay on top of all the small tasks that have a tendency to get lost in the shuffle. On the 6th, you're feeling inspired by your journey and motivated to share your success story with others. When Venus joins the Gemini party with Mercury, your personal magnetism is heightened through your gift of gab and online presence. The New Moon on the 11th encourages you to explore new terrain to increase your income.
The Sun enters Gemini on the 20th, enhancing your popularity. Although you typically roll solo, it doesn't hurt to have a group of loyal supporters. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, inviting you to deepen your knowledge of your craft and implement new routines that will turn your dreams into reality. A magical Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th shines the spotlight on you and the gems of wisdom you've acquired throughout your journey. The month wraps up with Mercury Retrograde helping you review current projects, revamp your website, and get a little more organized.
Taurus
Your personal values and finances come into focus when Mercury enters Gemini on the 3rd. On the 8th, Venus shifts into this same part of your chart, inviting you to assess your beliefs about your body image. Writing love letters to yourself and reading them to yourself in front of a mirror can do wonders for your self-esteem. The New Moon in your sign encourages you to take healthy measures in improving your appearance. A new hairstyle or wardrobe may be just what you need to boost your confidence. On the 13th, Jupiter enters Pisces, emphasizing the importance of networking and friendship.
Team work makes the dream work.
Gemini season officially begins on the 20th to revitalize your bank account. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde which could create some friction between you and an authority figure. Stick to the rules during this transit to avoid unnecessary conflict—unless, of course, you are your own boss. If you're self-employed, leadership development could benefit you personally and professionally. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th illuminates emotional wounds that need your attention. Remember—you have to feel it to heal it. The month comes to a close with our second Mercury Retrograde of the year inviting you to revisit conversations about your earning potential. By the end of the time Mercury goes direct, you'll have a more holistic perspective of how much you truly bring to the table.
Gemini
This month is action-packed from start to finish with Mercury, kicking the party off when it enters your sign on the 3rd. Let's just say that life is going into overdrive for you. When Venus joins this part of your chart, your magnetism has you attracting financial blessings and possibly some romance, too. On the 11th, the New Moon invites you to disconnect for a moment to recalibrate your subconscious so you can experience more guilt-free abundance and pleasure because you deserve it! When Jupiter shifts into Pisces on the 13th, you'll be challenged to stay disciplined in your career endeavors. By this time next year, you'll be amazed at how much progress you made.
Your birthday season begins when the Sun enters your sign on the 20th! All eyes are on you as you celebrate your Solar Return. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde inviting you to redefine any aspects of your spiritual truth that were bestowed upon you by those in positions of power. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th helps you resolve any relationship conflicts. If a win-win situation can't be agreed upon, then it just may be time to sever ties. Our second Mercury Retrograde of the year closes the month out, granting you the opportunity to tie up loose ends in relationships and projects.
Cancer
May invites you to into your shell to reflect on the past year as you prepare for your Solar Return. With Mercury and Venus in Gemini, the outside world can be a bit overstimulating, making it imperative for you to prioritize some time to retreat into your quiet, safe space. The New Moon on the 11th dissuades you from convincing anyone of your worth and encourages you to nurture connections with people that already recognize your value. This is also a supportive time to start building the foundation for how you want to impact your community—both online and offline.
When Jupiter enters Pisces on the 13th, you've got the Midas touch.
If you work in communications, the cosmos is stretching you to actualize your potential while also offering opportunities to share your content on a bigger platform. Try not to overthink yourself out of the blessings coming your way! On the 20th, the Sun shifts into Gemini which has your energy levels lower than usual. Get plenty of rest and sleep during the next month. When Saturn goes Retrograde on the 23rd, it will encourage you to create a strategy to tackle any debts that you have. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th will help you resolve a long-standing negative habit. The month wraps up with Mercury going Retrograde, encouraging you to tie up any loose ends before your birthday season.
Leo
Mercury shifts gears at the top of the month, drawing your attention to your friends and social network. Per usual, you're the life of the party and everyone wants to be in your circle. When Venus joins this part of your chart, you may be surprised that an acquaintance is interested in you romantically. The New Moon on the 11th challenges you to make some adjustments in your career which could result in you pivoting in a different direction. On the 13th, Jupiter transitions into sensitive Pisces. During this transit, you're encouraged to face some of those suppressed emotions and experiences from a different perspective (if you're into Tarot, think of "The Hanged Man").
Towards the end of the month, the Sun shifts into Gemini which has your mind abuzz with all of the grand ideas that you want to bring into reality. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, inviting you to reassess your boundaries and contractual agreements. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse liberates you from watering yourself down in any way. You deserve to show up in the world in all of your brilliance. May wraps up with our second Mercury Retrograde of the year, encouraging you to breathe new life into an old dream.
Virgo
The first half of the month may be a little irritating with so much action taking place in Gemini. Between Mercury and Venus in this part of your chart, you could run into some power struggles particularly with someone in a position of authority. It's best to choose your battles wisely. The New Moon on the 11th invites you to expand your mindset by going back to school or attending a workshop that can help you refine your skills and ultimately align you with more financial abundance. On the 13th, Jupiter enters Pisces, giving you the opportunity to grow through your closest connections.
Choose wisely when partnering up in love and business matters.
When the Sun shifts into Gemini, your work performance is under review. Some important eyes may be on you so make sure you're on top of your shit. You'll be surprised by what opportunities come from your ability to hold down the fort. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, encouraging you to make some adjustments with your routine. You may feel like you don't have enough time but there's really just a need for you to prioritize what's most important. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse helps you resolve a longstanding issue with family, bringing you the peace and clarity that you need. The month ends with Mercury going Retrograde inviting you to a seat at a table with some pretty influential power players.
Libra
The month kicks off with Mercury entering Gemini on 3rd expanding your platform & influence. When Venus joins this part of your chart on the 8th, you're attracted to individuals capable of stimulating your mind. Exploring different cultures or traveling internationally can be just the experience you need to inspire you. The New Moon on the 11th could invite you into a financial partnership making this a good time to apply for a loan for your business start up or your new home. On the 13th, Jupiter enters Pisces giving you the opportunity to get a handle on any harmful habits—particularly those that result in overindulgent or escapist behaviors.
Towards the end of the month, the Sun enters Gemini on the 20th encouraging you to reconnect with your deeper sense of truth. Your beliefs are up for review. Grant yourself the freedom to change your mind. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde which has you thinking more seriously in matters of romance. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th provides you with the cathartic release that you need to show up in the world more authentically. It's time to get that throat chakra poppin! The month wraps up with Mercury going Retrograde giving you a chance to tie up loose ends with a project or school.
Scorpio
The first part of the month brings your attention to deepening your closest connections. With Mercury and Venus shifting into Gemini, you're more curious about others and someone around you could share the same sentiment, making this a good time to gain a better understanding of each other which will ultimately strengthen the relationship. The New Moon on the 11th invites you into a new partnership—whether romantic or professional. If you're signing any contracts around this time, try to do so before Mercury goes Retrograde later in the month.
On the 13th, Jupiter enters ethereal Pisces where good fortune finds you through your creative self-expression, hobbies, and romantic connections. When Saturn goes Retrograde on the 23rd, you'll have a chance to revisit your earlier foundations in life, giving you a chance to redefine how you manage your emotions. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th illuminates your financial weak spots which are more than likely attributed to a limiting mindset. Check your money beliefs to make sure they support your goals and aspirations. May comes to a close with Mercury going Retrograde, inviting you to revisit that plan to pay off your credit card debt or student loans.
Sagittarius
The first part of the month is building up to the beginning of eclipse season which kicks off later in the month. With both Mercury and Venus entering Gemini, your relationships are your primary focus. This is a time to reevaluate the dynamics within your close connections—both personal and professional. The New Moon on the 11th invites you to commit to some better habits that can transform your lifestyle in a positive way. On the 13th, Jupiter shifts into Pisces during a transit that will stretch you to grow beyond your family's expectations.
Towards the end of the month, the Sun shifts into Gemini, revitalizing any waning connections. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, encouraging you to revisit your earlier foundations that shaped your internal dialogue. Once you get more clear on these limiting beliefs, you'll have the power to change them. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your sign initiates you into the next phase of your ascension. Allow the old narratives and identity to fall away as more of your true self is revealed. On the 29th, Mercury goes Retrograde, making this a good time to revise existing contracts and agreements.
Capricorn
Life gets a little more busy for you when Mercury and Venus team up in Gemini. You may be a little scatter-brained during this transit. Try making to-do lists and marking special events on your calendar to help keep you on track. The New Moon on the 11th has you assessing whether any of your romantic contenders have the potential to be a long-term partner. If love is the last thing on your mind, a new creative project can be just what you need to immerse yourself into as you pave your legacy (and make your inner child proud along the way). On the 13th, Jupiter enters Pisces, inviting you to nurture your connection to the Divine.
Magical opportunities await but you have to be in the right frame of mind to recognize them.
The Sun enters Gemini on the 20th which could be stimulating your anxiety. Avoid caffeine and get into a fitness regimen to keep you grounded. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, giving you a chance to restructure your money beliefs, which in turn, can expand your earning potential exponentially. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse serves to liberate you from the shackles of inauthenticity. Past-life regression and hypnotherapy can help you resolve deeply ingrained fears that keep you from expressing your true self. The month ends with Mercury Retrograde challenging your will power. You've made some healthy changes. Don't fall back into old habits!
Aquarius
The month kicks off with Mercury entering your sister sign, Gemini, on the 3rd. When Venus joins this part of your chart on the 8th, the world takes on a rose-colored tint because love is in the air. You could be attracting the witty type of character that will entertain you with some interesting, and random, ideas that may challenge you to expand your own way of thinking. The New Moon on the 11th could bring up some challenging energies within your family dynamic or home which may lead to you considering a relocation. If you're looking to make an investment, flipping a house could be a good place to start.
On the 13th, Jupiter leaves your sign (for the time being) and transitions into Pisces. Tap into your spiritual power to leverage more abundance in all areas of your life including your finances. On the 20th, the Sun enters Gemini, revitalizing your inner child, making this a good time to get into a hobby or express yourself creatively. When Saturn goes Retrograde, you'll be retracing the lessons you've been (un)learning as it pertains to your identity. Your needs in friendship are changing around this Full Moon Lunar Eclipse, resulting in you outgrowing a connection. The month wraps up with Mercury Retrograde, giving you a chance to put the final touches on a project you've been pouring yourself into.
Pisces
Tension may be brewing with Mercury and Venus, entering Gemini during the first part of the month. Be mindful of getting pulled into gossip or playing both sides if you find yourself in the middle of a family conflict. The New Moon on the 11th supports your financial endeavors, particularly if you work in communications or are in the public eye in some way. Using social media to your advantage can actually create new streams of income for you if you actually start putting your brilliant ideas into motion. On the 13th, Jupiter enters your sign, granting you the Midas Touch.
Fortune favors the bold so don't shy away from some big opportunities coming your way over the next year.
Towards the end of the month, the Sun shifts into Gemini, making this a good time to host a small gathering at your home. Not all of your visitors will be welcomed with open arms but do your best to remain courteous, especially if you share a home with a roommate or significant other. On the 23rd, Saturn goes Retrograde, giving you a chance to reassess your boundaries and make any necessary changes. The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 26th motivates you to align with a career path that reflects the expanded version of yourself. May comes to a close with Mercury going Retrograde, encouraging you to revisit a conversation with a family member to clear up any misunderstandings. Home renovations and family planning may also be up for discussion as well.
Read all about astrology and horoscopes on xoNecole here.
Featured image by Laci Jordan for xoNecole
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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.
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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.
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