Dubbed the Buck Moon or the Thunder Moon, July’s full moon was named by Native Americans who infused Nature into every aspect of their lives. They recognized that bucks began to grow their antlers in July, and thunderstorms at this time of year often helped to cool muggy afternoons.

With a bit of influence from 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 Power

Along with the sun, the moon has the power to control the rising and falling of the ocean tides. What might happen to our Earth if there was no moon? Without the moon to stabilize our planet, our seasons would go haywire, and our planet’s orbit around the sun would change drastically. Our beloved oceans would change from beautiful wave pools to serene lake-like bodies of water. This would affect the nutrient flow of the ocean, eventually forcing many aquatic species into extinction.

That’s the power of the moon.

Connection

July’s Full Buck Moon will reach its peak on Thursday, July 10 at 4:37 pm EST. This is when the moon’s energetic power will be at its highest this month.

You are a being of Nature, connected to the moon’s miraculous energy. Embrace the moon. Feel its light and energy. Connect to its presence. Throughout the day today—and every day this Summer—stand in the meditative Qigong posture The Dragon Stands Between Heaven and Earth.