June's Strawberry Moon is just around the corner, so if you're still reeling from May's Flower Moon, now is as good a time as any to get ready!
Marking the last full moon of spring or first of summer, the Strawberry Moon represents a time of flux and change, with many believing the forces of the moon's cycle to influence the moods, emotions and feelings of individuals. While that might sound intimidating, the Strawberry Moon is often a very positive time, with this year's being in the fire sign of Sagittarius, epitomising optimistic possibility.
So why is it called a Strawberry Moon? Despite what you might expect, June's full moon has not earned this name because it's a Blood Moon or of any reddish hue.
Read on to learn where the name is derived from, as well as its spiritual meaning, when you can expect it in the UK, what it means for you and everything else worth knowing ahead of June 2023's Strawberry Moon.
What is the Strawberry Moon?
While you might (understandably) expect the name Strawberry Moon to be derived from the pinkish glow it can give off, full moon names are typically inspired by the seasons, weather patterns or animals that thrive during particular periods.
According to NASA, its name is derived from certain Native American tribes such as Algonquin, Ojibwe, Lakota and Dakota, who referred to it as the Strawberry Moon because it signified a time for gathering ripening strawberries and other fruits.
Alternative names for the Strawberry Moon include the Honey Moon, the Celtic name of Rose Moon and Anglo-Saxan name of Mead Moon, stemming from the fact that this was the time for mowing the meads (meadows).
Each moon has its own unique given name, from the Wolf Moon in January to the Blue Moon in August. If you're interested in learning more about where these names stem from, head to our full moon calendar below for a thorough overview.
When is the Strawberry Moon?
According to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, the full moon will reach peak illumination at 04:41am on June 4 in the UK, though will be most clear in the sky overnight in the hours before sunrise on June 3.
Is it a supermoon?
A supermoon happens when the Moon is at its closest point in its orbit to Earth at the same time as the full moon, causing it to appear especially bright and large. However, June's full moon is not a supermoon, with the next supermoon full moon due to be on August 1 with the Sturgeon Moon.
How does the Strawberry Moon affect us?
Astrologist Molly Pennington PhD explains how the Strawberry Moon might manifest in your behaviour, saying “This Strawberry Moon is in the fire sign of Sagittarius, so it represents a time of optimistic possibility. It signals the beginning of a new season so there's a quality of having a clean slate before you to plan and experience time in the sun to come. There could be an urge to travel or plan travel and a tendency to feel extravagant about it.”
So if you find yourself booking an extra luxe trip, try not to feel too guilty about it.
She adds, “The Sun and Moon are opposite each other during a Full Moon, and while every June Strawberry Moon will represent a time of dreamy change and a thirst for fancy and flings, each one is also contingent on the planetary configurations in the current sky.”
Here's what you need to know:
“The Moon and Sun are both in aspect with Mars in fiery Leo. This Moon could make folx feel like jumping into adventure or throwing caution to the wind. There could be an urge to jump on stage and grab the spotlight or a particular craving for positive attention. With Chiron, the wounded healer, in the third fire sign, Aries, there is a sense of vulnerability or a possibility to heal old wounds, perhaps around self-esteem. While Sagittarius Moons would be known for travel, curiosity, action and interest, Saturn is also in aspect, which could bring a sense of responsibility around any actions of that nature.”
Strawberry Moon's spiritual meaning and how to make the most of it
The Strawberry Moon's spiritual meaning is tied to the fact that it represents a time of new potential, renewal and abundance in line with ripening fruits. Our energy shifts in a positive way at this time of year, so if you've been feeling restricted by your own beliefs then this full moon is a perfect time to renew the faith.
As Pennington explains, the Strawberry Moon signifies a time of change and new potential, so try and be kind to yourself and allow room for self growth.
Given that this full moon occurs halfway through the year, it's a valuable opportunity to take stock and reflect on 2023 and what you've accomplished so far, as well as looking towards what you want to achieve in the second half of the year. Given that this Strawberry Moon is in the fire sign of Sagittarius this year, harness the strong and fiery energy as best you can to help you realign and realise your goals.
In other words, go get 'em tiger! Capitalise on the rising summer energy to live out your intentions.
This article was originally published on Glamour UK.
