The new moon is an extremely fascinating astronomical phenomenon – and an equally important phenomenon for our well-being, our sleep and even our mood. While the full moon is a symbol of brightness and activity, the new moon stands for darkness, retreat and new beginnings. But what exactly happens during a new moon? Does this particular phase of the moon affect our body and our sleep?
What is the new moon?
In astronomical terms, we speak of a new moon when the moon is exactly between the earth and the sun. In this constellation, the side of the moon facing the Earth is not illuminated, making the moon practically invisible to us. This phase marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, which lasts around 29.5 days. The new moon is therefore the transition from the waning to the waxing phase of the moon.
In contrast to the conspicuous full moon, the new moon often goes unnoticed. However, it is precisely in its restraint that a special power lies, which is associated with spiritual, energetic and health aspects in many cultures.
What influence does the new moon have on sleep?
One particularly exciting aspect of the new moon is its influence on our sleep. While many people report restless sleep and intense dreams during a full moon, the new moon seems to have the exact opposite effect. However, it must be said that the scientific situation here is not clear.
Some studies suggest that the phases of the moon, including the new moon, can actually have an effect on sleep quality. Research by the University of Basel, for example, has shown that people sleep better on average during the phase of the new moon, fall asleep more quickly and are generally calmer through the night.
Other studies, on the other hand, find no clear connection between the new moon and good sleep. Nevertheless, many people subjectively report more restful sleep on dark nights without a visible moon in the sky. This could be due to the fact that the new moon creates a particularly dark environment, which promotes the body’s own production of the sleep hormone melatonin. This natural darkness can therefore be quite conducive to deep, restful sleep.
If you would like to find out more about the moon and sleep, you can read our articles Sleep research confirmed: Full moon influences sleep and How do the individual phases of the moon influence our sleep?
When is the new moon in 2025?
If you want to consciously experience the effect of the new moon or plan rituals in line with this phase, you should know the exact dates. Here are the new moon dates for the year 2025:
- Wednesday, January 29, 2025
- Friday, February 28, 2025
- Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Tuesday, May 27, 2025
- Wednesday, June 25, 2025
- Thursday, July 24, 2025
- Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Sunday, September 21, 2025
- Tuesday, October 21, 2025
- Thursday, November 20, 2025
- Saturday, December 20, 2025
The new moon from a chronobiological perspective
The new moon is also extremely interesting from a chronobiological point of view. The human internal clock – controlled by the so-called circadian rhythm – reacts sensitively to the light conditions in the environment. As there is hardly any natural light at night during a new moon, this can have a noticeable effect on hormonal processes in our body. Of particular note here is the synthesis of melatonin, the hormone that triggers tiredness and regulates our sleep.
In complete darkness, as is the case on the night of the new moon, melatonin levels can rise significantly. This could explain why many people report that they sleep better and more deeply during the new moon – in contrast to the often more restless nights around the full moon.
Not only humans, but also animals react to the phases of the moon: Migratory birds, insects and certain fish species orient themselves to the light cycles of the moon. These observations indicate that the lunar cycle also plays a deeply rooted biological role in the animal kingdom – and is possibly effective across species in evolutionary terms.
In addition, researchers from the fields of chronobiology, neurobiology and sleep medicine are investigating whether processes such as cell regeneration, hormonal fluctuations or even our emotional processing are linked to the phases of the moon. From a scientific perspective, the new moon is therefore increasingly perceived as a natural clock whose influence could go far beyond the mere change in light.
The new moon and its symbolic meaning
While science primarily examines the new moon from a biological perspective, a symbolic and spiritual approach has also developed in parallel – and has done so for centuries. The new moon traditionally stands for new beginnings, retreat, introspection and the conscious letting go of old patterns. It is a phase of calm, of reflection – but also of inner focus on what is allowed to grow.
Many people see the dark moonlit night as an invitation to gather themselves, slow down and formulate new goals. Whether in the form of meditation, journaling or small rituals: The energy of the new moon is used to bring closure to the old and create space for new thoughts, feelings and plans.
The new moon also plays an important role in areas such as naturopathy, astrology and mindfulness practice. It is considered the ideal time for inner cleansing, conscious detoxification and emotional clearing. Even without a spiritual background, this moment in the lunar cycle can help you to take a more conscious approach to yourself – especially in our fast-moving times.
5 tips for rituals and self-care at the new moon
The new moon is an ideal opportunity to reflect on the essentials. Small, personal rituals can help you to realign your inner self and consciously experience the special quality of this night:
- Journaling: Write down what you want to let go of – and what you want to invite into your life. The new moon is perfect for new intentions and plans.
- Breathing exercises or meditation: use the quiet energy of the new moon for inner cleansing, clarity and mental centering.
- Relaxing baths with essential oils such as lavender, sage or cedarwood promote calm and regeneration.
- Digital detox: consciously avoid digital stimuli – the darkness of the new moon helps to clear your mind.
- Sleep rituals: Soft candlelight, calming music or a cup of herbal tea can help to further improve the quality of sleep around the new moon.
For restful sleep – the right bedding from billerbeck
If you want to use the new moon for conscious relaxation and regeneration, you can achieve a lot not only with rituals, but also with the right sleeping environment. High-quality bedding makes an important contribution to this – for deep, healthy sleep and a balanced sense of well-being.
In our billerbeck online store you will find suitable products for individual requirements and every type of sleeper. Particularly popular is the BALLADE® fiber comforter – cuddly, soft and with a natural silk finish for a particularly soft, cozy feel. The breathable, moisture-regulating comforter is easy to care for, washable at 60 °C and therefore also ideal for allergy sufferers. By the way: BALLADE® is available in different warmth levels and as a practical 4-season version.
It is perfectly complemented by the matching SUPRA fiber pillow which impresses with its generous filling power. Side sleepers in particular appreciate the supportive comfort of this light, fluffy and breathable pillow – which is also allergy-friendly and washable.
For all those who attach particular importance to ergonomic lying, the AIRTEC® CLASSIC barrel pocket spring core mattress offers maximum sleeping comfort. Thanks to seven individually coordinated lying zones, it adapts perfectly to the body and impresses with its precise elasticity. Its high breathability and durability make it the ideal choice for people who perspire heavily during sleep. The cover is of course removable and washable up to 60 °C – for maximum hygiene and durability.
This provides optimum support for night-time regeneration – especially during the quiet phase of the new moon.
