How Missing The Sturgeon Moon Can Inspire You Now

Missed the Sturgeon Moon in Toronto? Learn how to turn regret into mindfulness and self-compassion. Reflections from rppsychotherapy.

If you live in Toronto, you might have heard about the Sturgeon Moon 2025—a brilliant full moon that lit up the sky on August 8 and 9. It was a sight that drew photographers, stargazers, and dreamers outside. But if you missed it, you’re not alone.

Missing moments—whether it’s a lunar event or a personal milestone—can bring up feelings of regret, disappointment, or even self-blame. At rppsychotherapy, we believe these moments can be powerful reminders to pause, reflect, and learn how to embrace the present.

The Sturgeon Moon 2025 Recap

  • When it happened: Peak brightness at 3:55 a.m. ET on August 9, visible over two nights.
  • What made it special: Coincided with meteor showers and was nearly full both nights.
  • Where it shone best: Open areas away from city lights, like Toronto’s waterfront.

It was beautiful—but here’s the truth: Even if you missed it, the moon will rise again. This is true for the night sky, and it’s true for life.


The Psychology of Missed Moments

AI sturgeon moon

We’ve all been there—seeing posts of friends experiencing something we wish we had joined, or realizing we forgot to pause for a special moment. In therapy, these feelings often connect to:

  • FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): A sense of being left out or “behind.”
  • Self-criticism: The tendency to beat ourselves up for “not doing enough.”
  • Regret: Lingering sadness about what could have been.

Mindfulness Lessons from the Sturgeon Moon

Missing the Sturgeon Moon can actually teach us a lot about being present:

  1. The sky is always changing
    Just like life, the moon cycles remind us that moments are temporary—good or bad, they pass. This can help us stay grounded when we feel stuck.
  2. There’s beauty in the everyday
    While the Sturgeon Moon is rare, the night sky is still beautiful on any given night. Learning to appreciate smaller moments builds gratitude.
  3. We can plan for the next one
    Instead of dwelling on what’s missed, focus on what’s ahead—like the Harvest Moon in September or other upcoming celestial events.

Practical Exercises to Let Go of Regret

Here are a few simple steps you can try tonight:

  • Mindful breathing under the sky: Spend 5 minutes looking at the moon or stars, noticing your breath and surroundings.
  • Gratitude journaling: Write down three small moments from today you’re thankful for.
  • Shift the story: Instead of saying, “I missed it,” try saying, “I will be ready next time.”

Looking Ahead: More Toronto Night Sky Events

Even though the Sturgeon Moon has passed, you can still enjoy:

  • Harvest Moon – September 7, 2025
  • Draconid Meteor Shower – October 8, 2025
  • Partial Lunar Eclipse – October 17, 2025

Planning for these can help replace regret with excitement.


Final Reflection

Missing the Sturgeon Moon 2025 doesn’t mean you missed your chance for awe and reflection. Life offers countless moments to slow down and reconnect—whether under a rare full moon or during an ordinary walk at sunset.

At rppsychotherapy, we help you find peace in the present, embrace missed moments without guilt, and plan for a future filled with mindful connection. The moon will rise again—and so will you.