The New Moon opposite Saturn sets the tone for this month whilst we get a strong dose of Aries energy to fire us up. This is going to feel like two very different forces at odds with each other and there will be plenty of frustration as a result. At New Moon both the Sun and Moon occupy the same Zodiac degree and on the 3rd they are sharing that space with expansive Jupiter. This new phase is the time to get things started and plan for the coming weeks. Jupiter exaggerates things and we could get carried away on a wave of optimism as we head off towards the “greener grass” even if it’s simply to have any experience of something beyond what we already know just for the sake of change. There are a total of six planets in feisty Aries this month. That forceful energy is all for new ventures and doesn’t linger to see what the drawbacks might be or look over its shoulder at the debris left in its wake. The impulsive warrior planet Mars enters its own sign, Aries on the 2nd and joins with erratic Uranus. This is another volatile combination that suggests the urge to break free of restraints is combined with force or aggression. The sixth planet in the mix is fast moving Mercury, now in retrograde motion until 23rd. As it travels backwards passing over Jupiter the Sun and Moon the messenger planet will bring news of the bold moves being taken and the inspiring ideas will spread like wildfire to those who are receptive. All this fresh momentum that is driving for change will be severely hampered by Saturn who is sitting in opposition in Libra. He is going to cause delays and setbacks as he puts the brakes on the impetuous planets in Aries. This is going to prove that what started as a decisive action is turning into a long and drawn out struggle against a mighty force. The influence of what has been in place over a considerable time is not to be underestimated and no amount of passionate rebellion or upsurge of energy is going to oust it without a struggle. We may have all the good intentions and an enthusiastic drive for change but this is going to be a long haul and deep seated and stubborn habits don’t give way that easily.