Today may see a noticeable diminishing of the very heightened moods of the last week or so. This was largely due to the effects of the New Moon in tandem with a set of Lunar alignments which made recent days filled with tension, anxiety and nervous restlessness. However there is still need to be wary, and even if moods are not presently out of the top alert category there may still be notable concerns.

Usually around this phase of the Moon as we come up to 50 % illuminated there is a brief but important period that we often refer to here as the emotional doldrums. This, as the name indicates is a period of nondescript moods and emotions with very little of major note that usually presents few great highs or lows.

The major downside of this period is that it can often present with feelings of reduced zest and enthusiasm, together with subdued and even depressive moods and feelings. However this month the situation is not quite so straightforward. Currently we are still at the height of some major planetary alignments and these continue to add variety and challenge to the present mood scene.

Mars is still very much at the peak of its alignment with Saturn. As reported numerous times already this is contributing to highly polarised atmosphere with striking contrasts. This arises from the fact that with regards to their various attributes the two planets are very different in their influence. The energy of Mars tends towards forceful, aggressive and at times intolerant moods and feelings with strong and passionate emotions. On the other hand Saturn inclines towards more cautious, restrained, and inhibited moods, but also to firm discipline and control. When you put the two together you get more premeditated qualities of aggression that may dispose to strong ambition or a cruel ruthless streak, or else a forceful and planned targeting of objectives. Unfortunately this may not relate well to the needs of others and there may be selfish or self centred behaviour. In addition there may be feelings of confusion and frustration since the strongly contrasting nature of this influence may incline towards an indecisive attitude with strong insecurity.

Mars is also in opposition to Neptune and this can lead to irrational fears and phobias as well as considerable emotional frustration. Other likely traits include a self refining attitude that may attempt to put right perceived wrongs in ones character and behaviour, or else a turn towards spiritual, emotional or philosophical areas of help as a means to achieve greater meaning in ones life.

As on previous days some degree of cheerfulness may arise from the opposition between Venus and Jupiter. This has been active for well over a week now and has led to friendlier, more affectionate and agreeable feelings that have helped to contain some of the harsher elements of the recent emotional spectrum. Not so desirable is the propensity for this alignment to turn towards exaggerated or over extravagant gestures that may lead to carelessness, accidents, or large financial losses or unnecessary expediture.

Coming days should see a gradual downturn in moods and emotions from the high intensity of previous days. Nevertheless the Mars/Saturn alignment, mentioned above still remains powerful and its influence is likely to be the dominant feature of moods over the next few days.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 42% illuminated.