A Phase for Surgery

Given the option, I would not choose to undergo a surgical procedure during; A waxing or full moon, an eclipse, or a mars or mercury retrograde. Why? To me, aside from planetary influences, it feels counterintuitive to buck centuries-old experience and wisdom. Our ancestors understood the potent transformational energy of the moon, sun, and planets. They timed the planting of their crops for the most beneficial farming. They performed synchronous healing procedures. Some watched the position of the stars to guide their nomadic lifestyle. Assuming that same powerful energy would not still affect our human body seems illogical.

Obviously, emergent situations are not able to be so dictated. Likewise, with the overcrowding of medical units and tight surgery schedules, we are often limited to dates that do not fall into our preferred astrological timing. All is not lost, however.

Armed with the knowledge of potential challenges, we can move (supplement and support) areas of our physical and mental health toward achieving the best possible outcome. Medical Astrology is an ancient system that associates various body parts, human physiology, and illnesses as being under the influence of the twelve astrological signs and planets. It is referenced in ancient texts from Babylon, Egypt, India, and Greece, as well as in early American folk medicine.There is evidence that up until the 18th century physicians and surgeons also studied and practiced astrology. They believed that the phases of the moon exerted a critical influence on human blood flow, particularly the full moon, and thus it was critical to know when it would occur. Additionally, the astrological sign the moon was transiting through on a particular date and time, determined the best date to perform surgery and bloodletting.

Hippocrates, regarded as the father of medicine, taught that all disease originated from the physical realm. He also believed in the influence of astrology to manipulate human health. He is quoted as saying, "He who does not understand astrology is not a doctor, but a fool." He touted the value of a physician's understanding of astrology in order to be a better doctor, and that surgeons, in particular, should be well versed in the phases of the moon and its assistance in controlling blood flow and other bodily fluids in performing surgery.

In addition to his notoriety as a seer and astrologer, Nostradamus was a physician. He regularly charted the transits of the moon and other planets when treating his patients. And in 1996, the cardiothoracic department of Rhode Island Hospital conducted a study about the potential influence of lunar cycle phases on cardiac surgery patients. Among other findings, they discovered increases in intracranial bleeding during the waxing and new moon phases. At the conclusion of their research, Dr. Frank Sellke (then chief of cardiothoracic surgery) stated, "Though procedures cannot always be timed around the lunar cycle, a better understanding of the effects of the environment--including seasonal and lunar cycles--on our health can help us to better understand these rhythms, and ultimately provide better care for our patients."

Medical Astrology is far vaster than can be expressed and shared in this blog post. I will concentrate on sharing the general influences of the moon's transits and offer suggestions for how you may enhance or ease its influence.

According to Medical Astrologers, the most advantageous time to have surgery is during a Waning Moon phase. This is because complications are more common and recovery is prolonged when the moon is waxing. Patients may experience more pain or bleeding, inflammation, and side effects. 

Tip: If no contraindication is present, during the weeks leading up to your surgery day, consider adding a natural anti-inflammatory (such as Bee Pollen) to your regular vitamin and supplement regimen. You may also look to add turmeric, chamomile, and green tea to your menu. Of course, check with your general practitioner and surgeon before adding any supplement to your diet.  

Avoid timing the surgery from 30 minutes to 36 hours after the New Moon. Especially if only local anesthesia will be administered. Take caution as during this time, you may feel more anxious and tense--not the optimal mindset for a successful recovery.

If you are able to choose the surgery date, it is recommended to have that date set to begin and end within 5 days before, to 30 minutes after the New Moon. People tend to bruise less, swell less, and do not usually experience hemorrhaging during the Last Quarter to New Moon vs. Full Moon to Last Quarter.