We are now just a few days after the New Moon and tensions are still noticeably high. This means stretched moods and feelings with the possibility of extremes of circumstance or highly challenging emotions. In addition there may be sensitive or vulnerable feelings with a reflective sense of awareness.

Under these circumstances there is a heightened risk of contentious encounters, arguments, or volatile expression. This may be combined with acrimonious attitudes with simmering resentment, or barely contained hostility that may arise over the merest trifle. It should be warned that these feelings may be made all the more apparent by the consumption of alcohol whose effects will be greatly magnified at this time.

Another dominant feature of this period is the alignment between Saturn and Venus. This has been influential for nearly a week now and is currently approaching a peak. Likely traits to result from this include limited or disciplined feelings with coolly affectionate emotions. This may lead to a certain amount of melancholia, depression or lack of inspiration. It may also contribute to a loss of self confidence with uncertain or hesitant judgement lacking in conviction, drive, or authority. Also possible are exacting feelings of isolation, loneliness or feeling that the world is passing you by.

In many respects this is a difficult and demanding emotional situation that may impose limitations on ones aspirations and capabilities. As well as anything there may be a certain amount of frustration that things may not be going according to plan or lack any kind of plan at all. Unfortunately coming days may tend to accentuate these emotions yet further, but without the more aggressive energy that has characterised previous days.

Under these circumstances there may be a tendency to resort to cheering oneself up, through drinking more, eating more, or through the limitless ways in which one can derive an instant boost to ones emotions.

While this atmosphere may prove especially difficult for those on a tight deadline it could be perfect for those able to just sit back and place very few demands on their time and emotions.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 4% illuminated.