Naming Patterns of July’s Full Moon

As July’s full moon approaches, we are reminded of the cultural significance of the moon. In ancient times, people gave the moon a name that represented its connection to Nature’s processes. Although these names were given hundreds of years ago, their meanings are still relevant today.

Reaching the peak of Summer, we can observe the velvety antlers of male deer that first begin to grow in early Spring. Now in the heat of July, these antlers have transformed and have come to a point. The sight of these majestic bucks against the summer sky led to the name Full Buck Moon.

For farmers, high Summer is the time to cut and cure hay in preparation for Winter’s dormancy. This step is critical to feed livestock during the cold months that lie ahead. Preparing the hay under July’s full moon led to the name the Full Hay Moon.

Long summer days often call on cooling rain to break the heat. Groups of people that relied on Nature for survival understood this pattern through the power of thunderstorms. Hence, the July full moon was given the moniker the Full Thunder Moon.

There are some variations in moon names, but in general, North American tribes gave similar names to July’s full moon. With a bit of influence by the Native American tribes around them and with a nod to their own customs, European settlers named the full moons as well. The July full moon takes on a different meaning south of the equator. Names that represent Summer and its patterns in the northern hemisphere are representative of Winter and its patterns in the southern hemisphere: Wolf Moon, Old Moon, and Ice Moon.

The moon’s energetic power is at its peak during a full moon. July’s full moon, which is also a supermoon and the biggest of 2022, will occur on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at 2:37 PM EST. Supermoons come in pairs. This supermoon follows the Super Strawberry Moon we experienced last month. As it will hang very low in the sky, the best viewing time is near moonrise (7:25 AM EST) and moonset (10:43 PM EST). Use these peak times to experience the connection and wisdom of the full moon in your location.

Embrace the moon’s power and presence as you tap into this field and the consciousness of others around the world by standing in the meditative Qigong posture, The Dragon Stands Between Heaven and Earth. We will begin our meditation at 7:30 PM EST. Join us from wherever you are!