May Moon

Last Updated on March 22, 2024

In ancient times the moon was an important way people kept track of seasonal changes and important events. People associated the moon with the natural phenomena that occurred throughout the year. 

In our time the solar calendar has become far more important and the lunar calendar. The lunar calendar is typically used only for certain religious festivals. This year the May full moon will occur on the 18thof May. 

This May moon was traditionally associated with the large blooms of wildflowers found throughout the northern hemisphere. Traditional names for the May moon include references to blooming flowers from a variety of peoples. Native American, Angle-Saxon, and Germanic names all associate the moon with the varied blooms. 

In the Pacific Northwest wildflowers are abundant throughout the spring. On hikes here we can see, larkspurs, columbine, Indian paintbrush, twin flower, trillium and many more.  The blooms are also varied in their timing due to the steep slopes and elevation changes found throughout our landscape. 

May is a great time to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. If you’re new to hiking check out this site which offers beautiful hikes for all levels of hikers!

Get out there and explore. If your knees, ankles, feet or backs need any care before or after your hikes come in for some great acupuncture, chiropractic or massage. And if spring and summer pollens from wildflowers and grasses are aggravating your allergies, acupuncture can help treat allergy symptoms!