We are now just hours away from the New Moon which this month occurs precisely at 12:19 GMT, or 07:19 EDT on the 5th of May. As a result moods and emotions are likely to be tense and anxious with increased nervous restlessness. There is also likely to be an increase in aggressive, or confrontational episodes that may well deteriorate into quite nasty exchanges with the possibility of arguments, violence, and acrimonious exchanges.

As with every New Moon environment there is also likely to be increased worries and concerns with apprehensions that in some cases may cause serious distress and anguish. Indeed some may feel driven to the edge of what they feel they can stand and for a few this period may well turn out to be a time of some considerable crisis. In addition there may be conflict and turmoil within relationships and the slightest reason may be a pretext for a major argument.

Under these circumstances concentration will be far from optimal and it may not be easy to focus on the task in hand. Further distraction will come from the fact that this atmosphere will naturally tend towards escapism in its limitless forms and routine daily tasks may be left unfinished are else abandoned altogether.

Another feature of this period is that there may be a low sense of responsibility with a loathing for committing oneself to important decisions. In any case this will not be the best of atmospheres in which to decide on important matters and if possible these should be left until a more favourable moment.

Those on a tight deadline may come to feel especially pressured at this time. On the other hand those able to take things at their own pace and not feel constrained to challenge the boundaries of their endurance may relish the atmosphere of this period.

One encouraging note is the developing alignment between the Moon and Venus. This will begin to have influence around 15:00 GMT (10:00 EDT) on the 4th of May, and will last for approximately 12 hours. Likely mood traits will include more friendly and responsive moods with a greater degree of affection and understanding. Similarly there will be a greater degree of control and balance with creative or artistic inclinations. Feelings of romance and love may be prominent and this may be a period of strong amorous liaisons. However there is also the possibility of awkwardness, or unhappiness through affairs of the heart and this could result in some considerable turmoil.

All in all this period is likely to be subject to strong and sometimes difficult moods and inclinations. As mentioned above the effects of Venus will tend to balance the more extreme facets of this mood period but there is no disguising the fact that this will be anything less than a highly unsettling period of moods and feelings.

Alert is 8. Moon 1% illuminated.