We are now less than two days away from the New Moon and inevitably this will mean an increase in tense nervous restlessness. As a consequence there is a likelihood of strained and anxious emotions together with uneasy, insecure or vulnerable moods and feelings. Under these circumstances problems may appear to loom large and assume undue proportions.

This month the effects of the New Moon are further added to by on going planetary alignments that constitute a powerful mood influence in one of the years most concentrated periods of planetary activity. In addition some of these alignments are of an extremely challenging nature. For example the on going opposition between Uranus and Mars is capable of introducing rebellious, self willed, passionate and impulsive feelings with the possibility of bizarre, unusual, or irritable responses that may deviate strongly from ones normal behaviour.

Fortunately this period until around 10:00 GMT (06:00 EDT) on the 31st of July also sees an opposition between the Moon and Jupiter. This is likely to balance out the harsher and more intolerant elements of this alert period with more generous, sympathetic and sociable feelings with a good sense of humour and optimism. However this opposition can also lead to exaggerated or extravagant behaviour with reckless or unstable emotions. It can also mean that in the appropriate circumstances there may be a tendency towards extreme fun and enjoyment, with a particular attraction towards alcohol that will add spice to party situations, though other aspects of this alert pattern may quickly sour even the most convivial of settings.

Part of the reason why this New Moon may feel tenser than usual is that it coincides with the on going alignment between the Sun and Mercury. Although this fast moving alignment is now beyond its peak it still remains active and its likely mood traits include powerful mental and nervous stimulus with a propensity towards emotional upsets, and a strong desire for variety and change.

Venus and Neptune are now coming to the peak of their opposition, and this alignment is contributing a degree of more sensitive, refined and delicate emotions with an idealistic or sentimental disposition. Although this will mean a better sense of harmony and rhythm with an appreciation of the finer things in life it will also dispose to self deception, confusion, and an easy sense of disillusionment.

Once again this is a highly complex mood atmosphere that comes at one of the years most complex planetary situations. At times like this making accurate mood predictions becomes ever more difficult, however it is fair to say that as well as having its challenges this atmosphere can offer very positive outlets for expression. In particular it may allow one to think and behave - whether for better or for worse - in a manner that one may never previously have considered, and this could open up new possibilities or consequences that may be around for a long time to come.

Alert is 8. Moon 8% illuminated.