We are steadily heading towards a short period of quieter moods and emotions that represents a substantial change from the highly complex mood situation of the last two or three weeks. Nevertheless the first part of this current alert period, up until 13:00 GMT (08:00 EDT) will be conditioned by the on going alignment between the Moon and Mars. Although not as powerful as yesterday its influence will still be strong.

Likely mood traits include raised tension and anxiety with keenly aroused passions and a keen sense of like and dislike. Added to this there may be impatient, intolerant, or overbearing attitudes with the risk of contentious encounters, arguments, or volatile expression.

The above mentioned inclinations will be tempered by the continuing opposition between Saturn and Venus and Mercury. So far as moods are concerned this is likely to lead to restrained or limited emotional expression with a worrying disposition that may easily incline towards pessimism or lack of self confidence. In reality the effects of the Moon/Mars alignment combined with the effects of Saturn will tend to cancel each other out so neither influence will be rendered too extreme. After 13:00 GMT (08:00 EDT) however, when the influence of the Moon/Mars will not be quite so strong the more calculating, disciplined, but also self limiting nature of Saturn will rise more prominently to the fore.

As a result there may be reduced self confidence with unsure, or timid inclinations that may be tinged with melancholia or depression. Similarly there may be diminished drive and determination and it make take extra force of will to complete ones daily routine. As a consequence there may be a strong element of escapism and the lure of instant rewards and pleasures will acquire and even greater than normal attraction.

Venus and Mercury still remain aligned and this will create conditions of improved harmony and balance with more agreeable moods and feelings that may incline towards charm and friendliness. In many ways this mood will suit those able to impose few demands on their time and efforts and able to saunter on through their day in a relaxed and unhurried manner. By contrast those on a tight deadline may come to feel especially stressed and this atmosphere will probably not favour those whose lifestyle is habitually of a pressured nature.

Pleasure through the arts or through literature and especially music will be particularly satisfying at this time, and creative activities will see a definite boost.

The next 24 hours will see the Moon in opposition to Neptune and this will create a short period of acutely sensitive moods and feelings that will be dealt with in greater detail in the next alert.

Alert is 7. Moon 61% illuminated.