Although this present emotional atmosphere continues to be a little on the tense and anxious side, there is now a restraining influence that may take the edge off the more strident moods and feelings.

The current phase of the Moon should help to mitigate against extremes, and usually this time of the month means a period of few great highs or lows. However this is far from being an ordinary month and we are now in the midst of one of the years most concentrated periods of planetary alignments.

As well as anything this is creating a generalised setting of unease and unsettlement with the possibility of intense nervous restlessness. As a result emotions may be very much on edge with sharpened perception and alertness. In addition there may be raised levels of fear and apprehension with undue concern so that problems may assume monumental proportions.

Some measure of restraint, and balance may come from the close alignment of the Sun and Saturn. This is likely to lead to better control and discipline, as well as overall perseverance. However it may also lead to poor self confidence with an unduly pessimistic attitude, or even melancholia and depression. On the other hand these inclinations are likely to be contrasted by the opposition of Mars and Jupiter. This is currently at a peak and is contributing more aggressive, zestful and energetic emotions to the overall mood pattern. In this case the influence of the one alignment will act as a buffer against the other becoming too extreme.

During the course of the next 24 hours the Mars/Jupiter opposition will be further strengthened by the alignment of the Moon with Jupiter. This will last for around six hours and commences around 03:00 GMT on the 22nd of August (22:00 EDT on the 21st) Likely traits may include a more generous, sociable, and self expansive disposition, but with the risk of exaggerated, or extravagant behaviour with unstable emotions.

Once again this current mood sequence represents a period of high complexity with clashing emotions that are not easy to predict. Indeed some will continue to find this a period of significant challenge whereas others may find considerable zest and enthusiasm for on going schemes and ventures.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 53% illuminated.