Usually at this time of the month with the Moon around 50% illuminated there is a brief but noticeable period often referred to as the equivalent of the emotional doldrums. That is a period of no great highs or lows and with a limited sense of purpose and enthusiasm and no great feeling of drive or determination. In its more acute form this can also include feelings of depression or melancholia or a flattening of experience with a sensation of futility or loss of purpose.

While it is certainly true that something of that kind of atmosphere may be apparent in this current alert pattern, this is far from being the full story.

As on previous days the mood continues to be highly influenced by the on going oppositions between Saturn and Neptune, and Mars and Jupiter. And as we have stated many times already the mood attributes of these two alignments could not be more different. Whereas the Mars/Jupiter oppoosition may lead to forceful, dynamic and assertive thoughts and emotions with a strong element of resolve and detremination, the Saturn/Neptune opposition can lead to reserved, doubtful, and insecure feelings that may be plagued with doubts and fears as well as poor self confidence or a loathing for making important decisions. In addition the attributes of Mars and Jupiter will tend towards enthusiastic and sharpened responses with a heavy emphasis on productive action.

By contrast the Saturn/Neptune will dispose to more cautious and timid attitudes with mental confusion and a degree of emotional frustration that may lead to an easy sense of disappointment or disillusionment. Essentially it means that these two separate and distinct mood atmospheres will vie for supremacy and moods may swiftly alernate between the two extremes.

In real terms it may mean that decisions or ideas that one felt highly enthusiastic about only a short time ago may quickly lose their appeal and attraction. Of course this argument works in reverese so that ideas one may not have considered several hours ago may suddenly gather new appeal. Inevitably the outcome of this mood contrast will be one of some mental chaos, with ideas and plans that seem to spin around in a confusing and tiring manner. This may result in a blockage of clear thought and action so that considerable exasperation may be experienced as one struggles to fit in place the strands of conflicting impulses that may flicker through the mind.

As mentioned on previous alerts this atmosphere will suit those able to place few demands on their time and efforts and able to amble along at a very relaxed and sedate pace: In fact just perfect for a vacational atmosphere where doing nothing in particular may seem like the most rewarding thing of all. Failing this there will be a definite attraction for escapism in its limiltess guises and sticking to a rigid work pattern or completing ones daily routine will be subject to the considerable distraction of other more attractive alternatives.

Particularly tempting will be any activity that offers quick emotional rewards and gratification as feelings will be much in need of a boost at this time. The following three days will see yet further variety in the mood as the Moon will quickly aspect with numerous planets, making the week one of considerable mood change.

Alert is 7. Moon 51% illuminated.