Today sees the start of the Venus/Mars opposition which will be influential for around the next 11 days or so. In fact today also sees the commencement of one of the years most concentrated periods of planetary alignments that will peak towards the end of January and lasts until at least the first week in February.

The situation can quite easily be appreciated by turning [1] to our special guide to the planetary alignments of this year. This is an exclusive Mood Alert feature which at a glance allows a complete appreciation of the years planetary alignments.

More analytically the Mars/Venus opposition is likely to lead to impulsive and passionate feelings with a strong sensual nature. Ties of affection will be quick to form and this could manifest itself in a better sense of co-operation and understanding with others. On the other hand this may also lead to excessive passion with very erotic impulses, and the possibility of unhappy emotional relationships.

Usually at this phase of the Moon there is a period of around three or four days when moods and emotions are broadly reminiscent of the emotional doldrums with few great highs of lows. While there is certainly something of this to the present atmosphere the presense of numerous planetary alignments mean that there is more zestful friction to the atmosphere than might otherwise be the case.

Translated into moods this means a period of indecisive, hesitant, or doubtful moods and feelings with a heavy element of insecurity and lack of confidence. This is not to say there will not be ideas, or ambitious inclinations, just that implementing them may be subject to undue levels of pessimism with easy disappointment. This atmosphere may also be subject to erratic gestures or unnecessary risks that could involve losses or the needless expenditure of finances.

As mentioned earlier passions will easily be aroused and since the influence between the Mars/Jupiter opposition has still to fully disappear, there may be very forceful and direct feelings that may occasionally spill over into explosive situations or arguments under which there may be very little restraint. This will be made all the more likely where there is the consumption of alcohol as it effects will be particularly magnified at this time and is likely to lead to the release of very powerful moods and feelings that could be objectionable to others.

Under the present circumstances it may feel harder to get going with reduced inspiration for on going schemes and ventures. On the other hand it could prove perfect for those able to operate well within their limits and able to take things very much at their own pace. Essentially it makes this a very good time to relax, if at all possible, but not so great for those chasing a tight deadline, who may come to feel especially pressured.

Another aspect of this period is that it may easily give way to fears and preoccupations and these may largely centre around the most basic or concerns such as health, finances, or relationships. Unfortunately these fears may currently loom large, and although the atmosphere is not as fraught with tension as several days ago there may still be a significant, or frustrating level of concern to deal with.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 35% illuminated.