Today may at last seem like a noticeable difference to the very heightened moods of the last week or so. Consequently there is likely to be a comparatively more relaxed and easy going mood environment with fewer of the high tensions of previous days. Even so there is still need to be wary.

The two major alignments of this time, featuring the opposition between Saturn and Neptune as well as a further opposition between Jupiter and Mars demand respect. Both oppositions have been active for at least three weeks and have added considerable colour to the emotional spectrum.

In many respects the two oppositions exhibit attributes that are sharply polarised with very definite contrasts and differences. As a result their various traits may tend to cancel each other out. For example the opposition between Saturn and Neptune may incline to frustrated emotional tension with a limited sense of enthusiasm or encouragement. On the other hand the Mars/Jupiter opposition warms to more enthusiastic and forceful emotions with a high degree of assertiveness, not to mention confrontation and conflict. And whereas the Saturn/Neptune opposition may bring confusion of mind and lack of purpose, the Jupiter/Mars opposition will lead to dynamic and energetic enterprise with heightened optimism as well as an active enjoyment of life.

Effectively the attributes of these two very distinct mood blocks will be at war with one another creating some mental turmoil. As a result zestful and enthusiastic emotions full of ambitious ideas and purpose will be confronted by a heavy wall of pessimism, doubt and insecurity. Under these circumstances concentration may be far from optimal and decisions may not benefit from the best of consideration. Accidents mistakes and the possibility of heavy financial losses are all a possibility and any venture that needs a careful response should be given double care and attention.

From around 23:00 GMT (18:00 EDT) the Jupiter/Mars opposition will be joined by an alignment between the Moon and Jupiter, and the three will continue to be in alignment for around 15 hours. This will tend to reinforce the characteristics associated with both Mars and Jupiter. Hence there is likely to be a more generous, sympathetic and socially inclined atmosphere, but also an increase in the general attributes of Mars. These may tend to easily aroused passions with a keen sense of like and dislike along with impulsive, forceful and even violent gestures. In turn there may be a potential for unstable moods and feelings together with exaggerated or extravagant behaviour.

One outcome of this present celestial pattern is that it could feel harder to get going and finding the discipline to keep to ones daily routine may not be easy as other more instantly rewarding alternatives will exert a heavy temptation.

As we have mentioned numerous times already this atmosphere probably favours those able to place few demands on their time and efforts and may be ideal for a vacational atmosphere as doing nothing in particular may seem highly attractive. On the other hand those faced with a tight deadline may feel themselves even more pressured that normal and it will also be harder to complete tasks to the usual degree of quality and efficiency.

At present the effects of alcohol may be subject to a complex release of emotions and even moderate consumption could result in difficult or distressing feelings that may also be a strain on others.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 70% illuminated.