Moon Journey: The Long Winter Moon Arrives Today

Today is the full moon. Where I live, it is at its fullest at 12:35 am. On a clear night, the full moon easily lights our way and we’ve no need for flashlights. If snow is on the ground, it is almost like day and makes for easy travelling through the forest.

Throughout history, there have been many names for the December full moon. They include Cold Moon, Frost Moon, Winter Moon, Moon before Yule, Oak Moon and the Long Night Moon.

It is easy to determine where most of these names originated from. The Long Night Moon obviously indicates the longest night of the year, giving a nod to Winter Solstice. It is believed Oak Moon comes from druids as they are the ones with the closest relationship to the oak.

I wonder if we need exposure to moonlight just as we need exposure to sunlight. Our greatest source of Vitamin D is from the sun. I wonder what vitamin we get from moonlight.

Searching the Internet, I found that moonlight also provides Vitamin D but to a lesser degree. Since what is coming from the moon is reflected sunlight, this makes sense.

Still, there is something more. Other sources suggest exposure to moonlight creates feelings of awe and peace. It connects us to the universe and deepens our sense of the greater meaning of existence. It is recommended to meditate under moonlight and do such things as yoga.

The moon in all its wonder is a fascinating rock, one that has inspired myths, legends and stories of gods and goddesses. It is there for all to see. You need only to look up.