May is a month where passion, freedom, and growth are all coming together in alchemy. Some significant transits that Astrologers alike have been anticipating are occurring this month, and it’s changing dynamics moving forward. May begins with Venus moving into the fiery energy of Aries on May 2, and will remain in this independent and direct sign until May 28. While Venus is moving through Aries this month, love and relationships are about initiating intentions, being confident in your pursuits of love, and recognizing that you deserve the love you give.
The second out of the four Mercury retrogrades of 2022 is happening on May 10 and will begin in the sign of Gemini until May 22 before finishing its retrograde transit in Taurus until June 3. With Mercury retrograde moving through one of its ruling signs, Gemini, communication haywire can feel even more prevalent for the time being. Extra precaution should be used when it comes to transportation, communication, networking, and investments with this Mercury retrograde. Mercury retrogrades are all about having a sense of humor and acknowledging that sometimes we don’t always know why things are happening the way they are, but that they probably needed to.
On the same day that Mercury goes retrograde, the most significant transit of the month occurs as Jupiter, the planet of blessings, moves out of its year-long transit from Pisces and moves into Aries. Jupiter will be in Aries this year from May 10 through October 28 and will be retrograde in Aries from July 28 to October 28. Jupiter will move back into Pisces for a brief moment at the end of this year, and then finish its year-long transit in Aries from December 20 until May 16, 2023. While Jupiter begins its transit in Aries this month, the vibes turn from emotional expansion and understanding to inspired direction and understanding of thy self. While Jupiter is moving through Aries, there is a lot of drive, inspiration, and momentum to grab ahold of, and it is exciting energy for the world.
Moving more into May, there is a powerful Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio on May 15-16, and transformations are evident. Whenever the moon is in Scorpio, emotions run deep and intimacy levels are heightened. Scorpio’s strong intuition never goes missed and during this eclipse, the revelations will be plenty. This is the Eclipse to release any emotional and financial restrictions you have been feeling, and soak in the gratitude of what is present for you right now.
Gemini Season begins a few days later on the 20th, and there is a New Moon in Gemini on May 30 before the month ends. Gemini likes to keep things light and exciting, and moving out of May the collective is bringing light to the inspired ideas and visions that this month has brought.
Aries Horoscope for May 2022
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a month of flow, grace, and abundance for you, Aries. A lot of the powerful energy and changes this month in the stars are directly influenced by Aries. Venus, the planet of love, enters your sign on the second day of May, signifying the flow of love that is coming to you this month. There is positive energy with you right now when it comes to self-love, expressing yourself, and allowing others to shower you with some love and attention right now as well.
Jupiter enters your sign on May 10 for the first time in over a decade, bringing an extra dose of good luck into your life right now. With Jupiter in Aries until October 28 and going retrograde in your sign starting July 28, you are moving through a time of self-development and putting more focus on what you see for your path moving forward, what your personal goals are, and how you can show up in your authenticity. There are some mountains to climb this month, but your confidence is at the forefront making everything happen for you with ease.
Taurus Horoscope for May 2022
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleYour season is here beautiful, Taurus! May is a month of emergence, synergy, and things coming to the surface that you have been planning and intending for. This is your time of making power moves and rising above the transformations that have been occurring for you this year. You are getting your ducks in a row in a sense this month and making sure the plans you have been working on are starting to see growth and unfoldment.
Mercury goes retrograde this month, and this is an important Mercury retrograde cycle for you, being that this retrograde will be in your sign from May 22 to June 3. You are taking a step back and processing what is ahead of you right now. Some plans need reworking this month and taking things day by day will help this healing process. With Venus in your 12th house until the end of May before moving into your sign on May 28, you are emotionally replenishing right now. It is out with the old and in with the new for you this month.
Gemini Horoscope for May 2022
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a game of balance for you, Gemini. You like to keep things moving and fuel your infinite curiosity in life, and this month is reminding you of the importance of taking things slow, having patience, and allowing the magic to come to you. There is a sense of stillness, contemplation, and peace with you this month, Gemini. The second Mercury retrograde of 2022 is occurring in May, and it begins in your sign. From May 10 to May 22, Mercury will be retrograde in your sign, and taking your time with communication, transportation, and gaining clarity is needed.
Gemini Season begins on May 20 and there is a little bit more of a sparkle in the sky for you right now. Things are coming to you this month, and the magic is being felt better than expected. The key is staying hopeful about the opportunities and experiences that are presenting themselves at this time, and remembering that the sky's the limit for you. There is a New Moon in Gemini on May 30 before the month ends, and you are owning your power in life, and walking through new doors.
Cancer Horoscope for May 2022
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a time of life coming full circle, and seeing your happy outcomes bloom to fruition, Cancer. There is a bright radiance shining forth from you this month, and you have your eyes on the prize. You know what you want, and you have the confidence and passion to go after it right now. With Venus and Jupiter in your 10th house of career in May, your professional life and goals are at the forefront. May is all about putting your best foot forward and receiving the recognition and acknowledgment for the hard work you have been putting in.
The energy is transforming and moving around for you in May, and with a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in fellow water sign Scorpio from May 15 to May 16, you are feeling the passion and excitement in your romantic life. The eclipse this month will be transiting your 5th house of romance, happiness, children, hobbies, and creativity, and there are some wake-up calls when it comes to your gifts, talents, what makes you happy, and how you want to shine in life coming through for you this month.
Leo Horoscope for May 2022
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a karmic and eye-opening month for you, Leo. Things are getting deep for you this month and there is alchemic energy with you as you see the patterns of your life when it comes to the past, present, and where you are headed. Taking time for your healing, acceptance, and for time to process the adventures of the month is necessary. You are embarking on a new journey in May as many different paths in life open up for you from previous intentions and actions.
Friendships, community, and spirituality are key themes for you in May as you work with others in collaboration and learn more about how to balance your needs with the other responsibilities on your plate as well. Mercury will be retrograde in your 11th house of friendship from May 10 to May 22, and there will be a New Moon in this area of your chart on May 30 before the month ends. What comes up for you right now is happening so that you can process, reflect, and release. Go to the places that feel like home or that excite you in life, and remember that you are evolving.
Virgo Horoscope for May 2022
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is all about purification and forward movement for you, Virgo. You have been waiting, hoping, and intending for the things that are showing up for you in May, and they're doing so through you dropping the doubt and the worries. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong this month, take note of everything that is going right. Chapters end, emotions get cleansed, and the sky is clear for new possibilities. What is washed away this month is the density that has kept you in one place out of restriction rather than comfort, and you are ready for some new landscapes.
There is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your 3rd house on May 15 and May 16, and this is a magical time for you when it comes to communications and self-expression. Your ruling planet Mercury goes retrograde this month and will be moving through the areas of your life having to do with career, achievement, travel, and adventure. The universe is asking you to look at the goals and career steps you have put into fruition and what you are working on and make sure these same intentions align with the end goal you are hoping for.
Libra Horoscope for May 2022
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a month of reflection and growth for you, Libra. Life is mirroring to you what your emotional world has been telling you within, and you are seeing clearly why things have been playing out the way they have recently. With Jupiter and Venus moving into your opposite sign of Aries this week, you begin a very significant, once-every-decade journey of love. The opportunities are there, and your vision of love in general right now is colored with enthusiasm, openness, and opportunity.
Moving more into the month, there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your 2nd house of income on May 16. Mid-month is a good time to pay off any bills, clean out your purse, and release any financial plans or restraints that have done you more harm than good. The key this month is the space that is being created for your growth. What you do in this space, in these moments of reflection, allows you to let go of what’s keeping you from growing connections, and putting you in the right space to receive and gain clarity.
Scorpio Horoscope for May 2022
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis is a month of release, replenishment, and freedom for you, Scorpio. There is a sense of a clearing coming into your life in May. There are big chapters in your life coming to a close this month as you take the time to let things develop into where they want to be. With Venus in your 6th house of health from May 2 to May 28, a lot of the month you are focused on what is going to make you happy and healthy. You are putting the effort into your daily routine, habits, and working life, and are feeling the love in your everyday environment with this energy.
We also have an important Full Moon Eclipse occurring in your sign from May 15 to May 16 this month. This eclipse is hitting home for you and is bringing the personal growth, insights, and goals you have been focusing on to the forefront of your life. La Luna will be shining its light on you in mid-May and you are feeling all the feels this month, Scorpio. By the end of the month, there is a New Moon in your 8th house of intimacy and you are seeing new beginnings within love, shared finances, and commitment.
Sagittarius Horoscope for May 2022
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleThis month is a time of rebirth for you, Sagittarius. The flowers in your life are blooming, and you are birthing something new right now. With your ruling planet Jupiter changing signs this month and moving into a fellow fire sign, you are receiving all the good luck energies from this change. Jupiter is entering a long transit having to do with love, romance, creativity, children, and entertainment for you. The good vibes are flowing from you and to you and there is a lot of gratitude in your life in May.
Moving more into the month, Mercury goes retrograde in your opposite sign of Gemini from May 10 to May 22, and during this time you are learning through love. Relationship balance may take some more effort during this time, and keeping an open mind when it comes to these partnerships is needed. This isn’t the month to rush things or to force things to happen, it’s all about having patience, taking intentional action, and believing in your ability to do great things.
Capricorn Horoscope for May 2022
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleNurture your world, Capricorn. May is a time of inspiration, nourishment, and development for you as you ground your heart in the present moment. Jupiter in Pisces and Pluto in Capricorn come together on May 3 and form a sexy sextile, giving you a boost of empowerment and self-confidence. There is a guardian angel on your side this month, and you are feeling this sense of support in your life. With a Lunar Eclipse occurring a few weeks later in your 9th house, you are realizing that a lot of the adventures, intentions, and plans you had set out for yourself have come true and continue to for you.
With the second out of four Mercury retrogrades happening this year occurring this month starting May 10, you get some important opportunities to plan, replan, then plan again. This Mercury retrograde transit is asking you to take a look at where your habits, routines, and patternings are on the day-to-day and to see what has been benefiting you and making you happy, and what doesn’t anymore. Don’t let the pressure get to you this month, and make being kind to yourself your biggest priority in May, Capricorn.
Aquarius Horoscope for May 2022
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleLife is changing for you right now, Aquarius. May is all about the growing perspectives you have been tapping into. You have been connecting to your spirituality, your gifts, and your deep insights, and your heart is giving you all the clarity you need right now. With Venus and Jupiter moving into your 3rd house this month, you get the communication breakthroughs you have been looking for in May. Confusion clears, clarity enters, and the hope remains.
On May 10, Mercury goes retrograde in fellow air sign Gemini, moving retrograde in your 5th house of romance until May 22, and there is also a New Moon in this same area of your chart on May 30. What is switching up for you this month is the way you have been going about love and allowing it to come to you. Some boundaries may be necessary to put into place during this Mercury retrograde, but once the New Moon hits on May 30, you are overall seeing the gifts of where your heart has been heading in love. This month is all about what’s going to make you happy and feel like you are living out your purpose.
Pisces Horoscope for May 2022
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecoleMay is a wake-up call month for you, Pisces. You are experiencing a major chapter of your life closing this month as Jupiter moves out of your sign where it has been since December 28, 2021, blessing your life. While Jupiter begins its transit in Aries on May 10, (it will briefly dip back into your sign in retrograde from October 28 to December 20) you begin a journey of financial growth, expansion, and development. Jupiter, the planet of blessings, has been giving you clarity on thy self, your authenticity in life, and your personal goals, and now is moving into the energy of your chart having to do with assets, financial growth, and income.
From May 15 to May 16, there is a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in fellow water sign Scorpio, that will be moving through your 9th house of adventure. Although life is looking a lot different than it used to right now, you still see the full picture of everything you’ve ever wanted. The completions you are seeking and obtaining right now are creating spaces for more stability to grow for you and your emotional world is giving you the clues on what paths are going to take you there.
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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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