But what exactly is moon bathing? “It’s a calming cosmic pursuit that offers infusions of gentle, yin energy to balance the yang energy of direct sun rays,” Nadine Artemis, author of beauty book Renegade Beauty and creator of natural skincare brand Living Libations, says.
Fans of the practice believe that harnessing the moon’s lunar energy brings the body's systems into harmony and promotes healing and wellness.
You’ll need to familiarise yourself with the moon’s phases: Moody’s daily lunar report can help you keep track of what phase the moon is in. Artemis recommends venturing outside when the moon is in its waxing gibbous, waning gibbous and full moon phases. “Bright moon days, the period of waxing lunar days, are the optimal times for moon bathing,” she says.
Some women claim that the moon has an influence over their moods. Natalie Fox, a surf and yoga instructor, says that at the new and full moons, “my emotions tend to be heightened, and I’m more sensitive.” While those who study lunar cycles say that different phases of the moon can be used to help plan events, such as starting new projects during a full moon.
How do you practise moon bathing? Well, there are many ways to moon bathe. You can go outside when there is a full moon and conduct a ceremony, “Anoint your brow and under your nostrils with frankincense,” Artemis explains. “Relax, breathe deeply, and soak in the stars, trusting in life and knowing that we are also stardust.”
While Natasha Richardson of Forage Botanicals collects jars of “full moon water” that she then uses in baths throughout the month. “I use it to supercharge the intentions I made myself through the month,” she says. “You fill up a clear glass receptacle with spring water and take it outside on the full moon after sunset. Preferably you'd go and collect it again before the sun comes up and make sure it doesn't touch the ground again until you pour it into the bath.”
But it can be as simple as running a bath during the new moon, a time it is believed to be a good time to cleanse and set out new plans for the upcoming month, while a full moon salt soak can aid reflection and relaxation. “It makes me feel like I've put some real effort into my self-care,” Richardson adds.
How to take a (simple) moon bath:
Step one: Run a bath on a waxing lunar day and pour in some bath salts (our bodies are thought to be best at absorbing minerals during a full moon). Try Himalayan pink salts, which are renowned for their healing properties.
Step two: Switch off artificial lights and lamps. Use candles for extra light if required.
Step three: Brew some antioxidant-rich rose tea or warm lemon water to stay hydrated.
Step four: Breathe deeply three times, then soak for 30 minutes.
Also, to find our more on how the moon may affect our hormones click here
To start tracking and making the most of your moods and hormones, we have vitamins, tools and tips to help you support you better, download the Moody Month app!
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