We are now just a few days away from the New Moon and there is now a noticeable increase in nervous tension with the possibility of contentious encounters, impatient responses and a general sense of apprehension.

However this is far from being a typical New Moon setting as the continuing influence of numerous planetary alignments makes for a highly complex mood situation with fast changing variations.

Of principal interest is the alignment between the Sun and Neptune and Mercury. This is now at a peak and is contributing to powerful self refining emotions with sensitive, vulnerable, impressionable and unsettled moods and feelings. Some of these will be very powerfully experienced and could lead to nervous upsets with a strong desire for change. In addition there may be an increased sense of perception with a highly developed sense of creativity that will be ideal for all artistic or expressional pursuits.

Similarly there will be enhanced mystical and spiritual awareness with intuitive thoughts and feelings that may open the way forward to fresh new avenues of personal insight and enlightenment.

Under these circumstances there may be strong escapist tendencies that could make it hard to stick to the confines of a rigidly imposed daily schedule. As such it could be harder to get going and the humdrum routine of everyday life may seem even more apparent than usual. Consequently there will be a leaning towards challenging or stimulating pursuits or activities that offer some possibility of instant reward or gratification. Where no such outlet appears obvious there may be a tendency to drink or eat more than usual.

Fortunately Venus still remains in alignment with Jupiter, though this conjunction is now past its peak. However it still remains influential and for some days now has been contributing to a more friendly, popular and understanding atmosphere, with a better sense of harmony and balance.

In addition the Venus/Jupiter alignment can give rise to a gregarious attitude and a better enjoyment of life together with a real sense of optimism and enthusiasm. While it is certainly true that some of these qualities have been submerged beneath the influence of some of the other celestial factors of this time, there is no doubt that the Venus/Jupiter alignment is rendering the current atmosphere a little less extreme than it would otherwise be.

Coming days will see a definite increase in nervous tensions, but also the strong desire to change and refine oneself, or aspire to loftier aims and desires. As such it may constitute a pivotal time that could introduce long standing changes of direction or attitude.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 3% illuminated.