A Happy New Year to you all.

The New Year begins as we start to exit from a period of intense planetary activity. As such the first days of 2008 commence with lowered planetary influence, and a diminished sense of zest and urgency. If anything moods and emotions may be of a nondescript variety with few great highs or lows.

Under these circumstances it may feel harder to get going with a lowered sense of motivation and enthusiasm. Once again this mood will suit those able to place few demands on their time and efforts and able to take things very much at their own pace.

For a time of New Year resolutions this may be a mood low on self discipline and determination, and it will take extra effort to complete ones normal daily tasks. In addition there may be many who find themselves low on inspiration and enthusiasm, together with an aversion towards decisions of any kind.

Under these circumstances concentration may be less than optimal and there may be an overall sense of confusion when it comes to making important choices. This may contribute to an unadventurous routine with little variety or challenge, and limited horizons for the immediate future.Indeed some may find themselves prone to sudden bouts of depression or melancholia with diminished self confidence, and a pessimistic view of ones future prospects.

Coming days however should add a degree of zest with the lead up towards the next New Moon in around a weeks time.

Some element of aggression, and conflict may arise from the continuing opposition between Jupiter and Mars. This will remain active for some weeks to come and will instil a degree of passion and emotion, and the possibility of contentious encounters, irritability, or conflict. However any such flashes of emotion will be strictly limited as we find an atmosphere that is low on very strident moods and feelings.

There is a strong likelihood that many will wish to add sparkle to the atmosphere through drinking more alcohol than usual or in instant rewards through culinary gratification, retail therapy, or just taking things easy - which if possible - is perhaps the best recipe of all for these early days of the New Year.

Alert is 6.5. Moon 40% illuminated.