Artificial light while sleeping appears to interfere with the production of melatonin, which is a hormone associated with ovarian activity. Research shows that women's cycles often normalize when artificial light is eliminated while sleeping. Eliminating the artificial light seems to allow the hormonal system to reset itself, so to speak, and take a fresh start. Couples who were thought to be infertile have been able to conceive by eliminating artificial light while sleeping.

Many women find that menstrual cycles are easier and more harmonious if they follow the cycles of the moon: menstruation on the new moon, ovulation on the full moon. Because we are surrounded by so much artificial light, even while sleeping, it can be a challenge to get in tune with the moon's cycles. Women report being able to gradually harmonize their cycles with the cycles of the moon by sleeping in total darkness, except for one or two nights at the time of the full moon. If you want to try sleeping in total darkness, make some dark shades for your bedroom windows and make sure there is no light of any kind from your clock radio, from under your door, etc.

If you want to try harmonizing your cycle with the moon's cycles, open your shades for one night during the full moon, and sleep in the moon's light. If this is not possible, get a nightlight and use it only during the night of the full moon. You may have to continue this practice for some months, so be patient. You may enjoy seeing your cycles gradually respond to Grandmother Moon's light.