We are now in the midst of a highly complex series of planetary alignments, which in turn is sure to have an equally complex effect on moods and emotions. In fact we are now well into one of the years most concentrated periods of planetary alignments and some may come to find this atmosphere highly challenging.

Of special note is the alignment between The Sun, Mercury and Venus. This conjunction is now very close to a peak and will lead to a heightened period of very powerful moods with strong emotions together with increased alertness and perception. In turn this may lead to a better harmony of expression with gentler or more agreeable feelings with a strong need for affection and understanding.

As on previous days there may be a powerful leaning towards intimacy or romance with a love of pleasure or things of beauty. Flirtatious or seductive tendencies may be one outcome together with a general disposition to escapism that could make it difficult to concentrate on more mundane aspects of everyday life.

Under these circumstances creative or artistic inclinations will be well to the fore and there will also be an intense longing for change or variety that is likely to manifest itself in a desire for travel or to savour new or more exciting experiences. Either way there will be a strong urge to make major changes though other aspects of this alert which incline towards insecurity or doubt could mean that any firm resolves will be contrasted by a more timid attitude that could lead to the frustration of wanting to make changes but lacking the fullest conviction to bring them to fruition. However the Moon is now about to align with Mars and for at least twelve hours from 22:00 GMT (18:00 EDT) there will be a more determined feel to the atmosphere that could sweep aside the more cautious aspects of this alert period.

Moon/Mars alignments are also noted for their keen and robust emotions with easily aroused passions that may easily tend towards impatient or intolerant attitudes with the risk of arguments or contentious encounters. These more aggressive feelings will be all the more likely where there is the consumption of alcohol and there will also be an urge to drink more than usual as a means of taking the edge off the atmosphere. Either way alcohol fuelled entertainment will carry an extreme risk of nasty incidents and encounters, or an unpleasant sense of awareness that may lead to turbulent thoughts and feelings.

With such a large number of planets aligned it is inevitable this will lead to intense nervous restlessness with notable apprehensions that have the potential to turn into full blown panic attacks. At the same time this atmosphere is laden with dynamic energy that will be a boost to on going schemes and ventures. Then again it has the potential for romance and love and although this may be of a turbulent or stormy nature there are all the ingredients necessary for very intense social interaction. Plainly this all goes to illustrate that this current atmosphere is nothing if not varied and will give rise to a whole host of activities and emotions that will all be very intensely experienced.

Alert is 8. Moon 18% illuminated.