We are now just three or four days away from the next New Moon, and inevitably this will mean an increase in nervous tensions and anxiety with the potential for extremes of mood and circumstance.

As mentioned several times before, the atmosphere of this months New Moon will also be further heightened by the on going alignment between Venus and Mercury, both of which are currently in opposition to Uranus.

The effects of Uranus need very careful handling and whereas the influence of Mercury and Venus tend towards energetic, quick witted, affectionate and altogether more amiable inclinations, the presence of Uranus can result in agitated and turbulent emotions with erratic, eccentric and out of character moods that will require very careful handling. In addition there may be strong willed, rebellious or aggressive outbursts that may be especially severe where there is the consumption of alcohol.

Fortunately a more moderating influence will come from the opposition between the Moon and Jupiter. This will be active for at least the next 24 hours and will last until around 14:00 GMT (10:00 EDT) on the 27th of August. Likely mood traits to derive from this include a more generous and sympathetic disposition with a sociable and better inclined outlook. Optimism and enthusiasm may be improved and there will be a more positively inclined energy that will add vigour to on going schemes and ventures.

On the other hand this alignment can all too easily veer towards reckless exuberance with unstable, and careless emotions that may be filled with extravagant or exaggerated responses.

Over the next few days there will be a noticeable rise in tension and anxiety and for some this could become a difficult and challenging period as we come up to the New Moon on the 30 th of the month. Above all there may be a great enticement towards escapism in its limitless guises with intense urges and desire for new and more exciting experiences, particularly those that appear to offer instant emotional rewards. Then again there are likely to be quite noticeable tensions with heightened apprehension and anxiety that for some could be quite debilitating.

Alert is 7.5. Moon 22% illuminated.