Are You Full-Moon Sleepless?

The science behind the lunar effect on your slumber

Illustration: Haleigh Mun

For centuries, people have attributed all kinds of abnormal behaviors to the moon. The so-called “lunar effect” has been linked to changes in women’s menstrual cycles, induction of labor, and even aggressive behavior and psychosis. (The term “lunatic” is derived from a Latin word meaning “moonstruck.”) Insomnia or a bit of extra…