Today is the day of the Autumnal Equinox, and the first day of autumn in the northern hemisphere, or the first day of spring in the southern hemisphere.

The Equinox is well known for its own separate tensions and increased awareness, and this year these tensions will be even further sharpened by the proximity of the Full Moon, which is now only a matter of three days away. As a result moods and emotions will be tense and on edge with increased anxiety and nervous restlessness.

In addition there may be a tendency towards aggressive moods and feelings with the potential for arguments or contentious encounters, which on occasions may be of an explosive nature. Under these circumstances subtle tensions will prevail with degrees of concern and apprehension that may give way to worry or bouts of panic. In fact those vulnerable to sensitive atmospheres may find the coming days a definite challenge.

A principal feature of this period is the continuing opposition between Venus and Neptune. This is slow moving and has now reached a peak. For some weeks this has been contributing an atmosphere of refined and delicate feelings with a tendency towards idealism and sentimentality. It can also lead to confused and chaotic feelings with the possibility of deceitful actions or self deluded behaviour. This alignment is now joined by the Moon, which is aligning with Neptune, and in opposition to Venus, and will peak for around eight hours between 15:00 GMT and 23:00 GMT (10:00 - 18:00 EDT). Likely traits to emerge from this include a more friendlier and sociable disposition with a better sense of harmony and balance. Unfortunately it can also lead to extreme emotional sensitivity with unstable emotions, and a disposition towards escapism or distractions to ones normal schedule.

All in all then this atmosphere presents a mixture of clashing emotions that range from sensitive and delicate feelings to those of an altogether more aggressive nature. As to which of these will predominate will largely depend on personal circumstances but it is likely that all of them will be present to some extent or other.

Alert is 7. Moon 84% illuminated.