We are now just hours away from the New Moon which occurs at 03:45 on the 7th of February (22:45 EDT on the 6th) As a result moods and emotions will be tense and on edge with increased nervous restlessness. In addition there may be increased zest and enthusiasm with an alert and energy filled disposition that may equally be susceptible to vague fears and imaginings.

As with any New Moon setting there will be the potential for forceful and aggressive moods with the possibility of arguments, contentious encounters and volatile or explosive mood situations. These will be made all the more likely where there is the consumption of alcohol and since the tenser elements of this atmosphere will dispose towards drinking more than usual this is something that needs careful attention as unpleasant mood swings are a likely outcome.

The Sun is now aligned with both Mercury and Neptune creating a complex and fast changing mood situation. As from 18:00 GMT, this alignment will be joined by the Moon and this will add further to the various characteristics of the planets involved. As a consequence there is likely to be intense nervous energy with the possibility of uncertainty, restlessness, frustration and acute emotional sensitivity.

At the same time there may be a tendency towards escapism in its limitless forms with impressionable self refining ideals, along with mental chaos and confusion and trouble making up ones mind. In addition this atmosphere may enhance mystical or spiritual awareness with an opening of inner path ways that could lead to new avenues of personal enquiry or a more meaningful appreciation of existing beliefs and concepts. Above all there may be an intense desire for change at this time and along with all the various other factors this could constitute a highly pivotal time with a huge effect on ones future direction.

The Venus/Jupiter alignment is now coming to an end and though not as influential as a few days ago can still exert a degree of authority. For just over a week this has led to a welcome sense of optimism and enthusiasm and although this may have been dimmed by other alignments its contribution to the mood setting will have greatly helped many peoples ability to deal with what are especially challenging moods and emotions.

Over the coming days the effects of the Venus/Jupiter alignment will wane quite dramatically and this will leave the atmosphere exposed to more raw and intense emotions. Even so Neptune may instil more sensitive feelings with a refined judgement and outlook but there is no escaping the fact of a complex and intense period that the next few days will undoubtedly represent.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 1% illuminated.