Today is the day of the New Moon and also the focus of a complex series of planetary alignments. Inevitably this will also give rise to an equally complex set of feelings and emotions that for some will approach crisis point.

As with every New Moon setting there will be tense and anxious moods and feelings with increased nervous restlessness that will make it difficult to settle. There is also likely to be poor concentration with reduced attention to on going tasks and ventures. Similarly there may be frequent distractions to ones daily routine as there will be a natural desire for variety and change or pursuits and activities, including bad habits geared towards reducing the intensity of this atmosphere. Eating or drinking more than usual may be one manifestation of this and as the effects of alcohol will be heightened this also gives rise to the possibility of conflict and aggression.

Under these circumstances it is understandable that heightened moods and feelings will prevail with notable fears and apprehensions and the potential for irrational concerns that may build up towards agitation, panic attacks or acute emotional turmoil.

Numerous potent planetary alignments also add further to an already heightened atmosphere. For example Venus is now in alignment with the Moon (till 23:00 GMT or 19:00 EDT) as well as in full opposition to Jupiter. Likely mood traits to result from this include a generous and expansive nature with a better sense of harmony and balance. Paradoxically however this same opposition can, in certain circumstances result in extravagant or vulgar tastes with highly exaggerated acts and feelings.

The above mentioned emotions are likely to run in tandem with the effects of the alignment between Mars and Saturn. These may result in a strange combination of opposites whereby feelings of strong discipline and control will be contrasted by a hard and severe attitude that may dispose towards cruel, violent or unscrupulous behaviour. Either way there is the potential for constructive or destructive energy, and this atmosphere offers the possibility of both in equal measure. This may run together with what constitutes a period of self refining activity that will receive strength from the values of Saturn to at least attempt to impose a more satisfying or agreeable life style.

There is no doubt that this mood is filled with contrasts and draws upon an intensity that many may find disturbing. However it also represents a chance to set forth a new agenda for change that may be of a permanent nature. Tough discipline is there to be grasped and this could set the scene for fundamental changes that may be necessary to achieve a better sense of harmony and well being.

Alert is 8.5. Moon 0% illuminated.