With the summer solstice approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, this astronomical phenomenon heralds the longest day of the year. This special celestial moment will be made even more meaningful by the June 2024 Full Moon, which will peak the following day, on June 21. This lunar eclipse is traditionally known as the Strawberry Moon, and its spiritual meaning calls on all zodiac signs to harness a little practical magic to help realize some of their goals for 2024.
The full moon occurs about once a month and marks the midpoint of the lunar cycle. It is also the most enlightening moon. Spiritually, the culminating energy of this lunar phase is known to bring things to light and prepare you to let go of what no longer serves you. The Strawberry Moon’s close proximity to the summer solstice adds an extra layer of spiritual meaning to it. In fact, the atmosphere of the summer solstice can be thought of as akin to an astronomical full moon, as it represents the point in the sun’s annual journey when it is highest in the sky, emitting the longest amount of sunlight, bringing enlightenment and abundance.
This year’s Strawberry Moon occurs in Capricorn, a productive, practical earth sign, making it the perfect time to take stock of your long-term goals and make plans to make them a reality. This is the first major lunar phase of the summer season, and knowing the spiritual meaning of June’s Full Moon makes it even more special.
What is the spiritual meaning of June’s Strawberry Moon?
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the Strawberry Moon is the traditional Native American name given to the full moon that occurs in June. This juicy name refers to the ripening of the ruby-colored fruit that occurs during this time in North America. Other traditional Native American names for the June full moon include the ripe berry moon, blossom moon and honey moon, all of which allude to the delicious sweetness of summer.
It’s the perfect time to indulge in plenty of ripe, juicy berries, but it’s also a great time to check in on your progress toward specific goals. With this lunar eclipse occurring in Capricorn, a cardinal earth sign associated with career, financial security, and solid planning, the cosmic energies are perfect for paving the way for material success.
The moon also faces off against values-driven Venus, urging you to find a way to connect your worldly ambitions with your heart’s most meaningful desires. What is worth your time and effort at this moment? The spiritual meaning of June’s full moon asks you to consider what is ready to be harvested in your life and what needs a little more time to cultivate.
Additionally, the Strawberry Moon appears especially large and golden due to a phenomenon called the “moon illusion,” which occurs because it coincides with the summer solstice. During each full moon, the Sun and Moon are exactly opposite each other in the zodiac.
Because the summer solstice is when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, the full moon will be unusually low in the sky and close to the horizon, appearing much larger than normal. This lines up nicely with the astrology for this lunar eclipse. The full moon will be squaring Neptune, the planet of mystery and fantasy, which may trigger some inner illusions. Remember that objects in your rearview mirror may be closer (or farther, bigger, or smaller) than they appear. Channel the grounded, practical energy of Capricorn and be cautious when it comes to acting.
How to harness the energy of the Strawberry Moon
June’s full moon marks the exact midpoint of the year, making it the perfect time to reflect on the past six months and revisit the goals you’ve set for 2024. If you’ve already hit some milestones, use the abundant energy of the Strawberry Moon as an excuse to celebrate your achievements and savor the fruits of your efforts.
If you’ve been thrown off track in any way, now is the perfect time to recalibrate your plans and ensure they are fully aligned with your values. Under this phase, it’s important to work wholeheartedly at your goals and take pride in your ambitions.
This is also the first of two consecutive full moons occurring in Capricorn, so you’ll have a chance to tackle similar themes during July’s full moon. To make the most of this rare astrological blue moon next month, June’s Strawberry Moon is perfect for freeing yourself from unrealistic goals and focusing on endeavors that have the potential to bring you more. Clear away obstacles to success in career, money, and material matters now to make room for making something big happen at the next full moon next month.
Nina Kahn is Bustle’s resident astrologer and tarot reader.
