We are now less than a day short of the first New Moon of the year which will occur at around 11:38 GMT (06:38 EDT) on the 8th of December. Inevitably the proximity of the New Moon has the potential for highly stressed moods and emotions with the possibility of extremes, so that some may find themselves driven to the point of crisis.

In addition there may be intense nervous restlessness with growing apprehension and concern. Petty fears and worries may abound and those vulnerable to panic attacks may find this an especially challenging period. Under these circumstances problems will weigh heavily on the mind and assume almost obsessive proportions.

As with any New Moon setting there will be the possibility of raised tempers with argumentative and confrontational behaviour that may instigate conflict even if only for the sake of it. Similarly there may be simmering resentment and hostility that may eventually find voice with spectacular eruptions of temper. Perceived injustices will be forcefully addressed and there will be above average sensitivity to personal criticism.

All of the above mentioned traits and emotions, particularly associated with aggression will be further fuelled by the consumption of alcohol whose effects will be magnified at this time.

This period is also strongly influenced by a five planet alignment, involving the Moon, Jupiter, Pluto, Earth and Mars. As such this will tend to increase tensions still further. For example the Moon is now in opposition to Mars, and this is likely to raise passions with added aggression and a keen sense of like and dislike.

On the other hand the Moon is also directly aligned with Jupiter and this will lead to better disposed moods and feelings with a more generous and sympathetic attitude that will tone down the harsher elements of this current celestial pattern. Even so this may give way to exaggerated, boastful or extravagant gestures that may result in over adventurous actions and activities with a careless or unstable attitude.

It should also be remembered that Mars is still in opposition to Jupiter and is creating assertive and self expansive moods, but also the possibility of agitation and conflict. This will be evident on both a personal and international scale with raised political tensions that are very apparent in the news headlines of the last few weeks. Mars/Jupiter alignments can also result in a superiority complex with enhanced ideals and religious inclinations, as well as extremist thoughts and tendencies.

Other attributes of Mars/Jupiter alignments can lead to an enthusiastic and optimistic attitude with the ability to enjoy life to the full, though this ability may be compromised by other aspects of this alert.

It is worth noting we are still under the influence of a high speed Solar wind stream that has been buffeting the Earth’s atmosphere for several days. This has led to moderate levels of geomagnetic activity which in turn is likely to have subtle effects on moods and ones general sense of well being. For example there may be a sudden feeling of not quite feeling well with indistinct symptoms and sensations that may include nausea, dizziness, palpitations or neuralgic aches and pains.

Emotionally this may manifest as anxious and restless moods and feelings with irritability and touchiness, and acute sensitivity. Those prone to panic attacks may be vulnerable at this time, and the next few days may prove to be something of a challenge. It should be noted that any physical symptoms that may derive from increased geomagnetic activity are usually of short duration only, and if persisting for more than a few days are likely to be of some other origin.

It will be seen from the above mentioned information that the current mood atmosphere is subject to great complexity and has the potential for extremes of experience that may be challenging and uncomfortable and could come close to crisis levels. If so then be assured that like any celestially induced mood sequence this will be of short duration only and towards the end of the week there should be a noticeable turn to more calmer moods and feelings.

Alert is 8.5. Moon 1% illuminated.