Good morning. It’s Monday. After last week I would not be surprised if you’re not that excited about starting this week. Some astrology might help.

All this chaos the past week looks like Mars still hanging out with Uranus-Eris. The two are sparking one another up. But this is not an exact polarity; it’s a quincunx, an odd-feeling aspect halfway between a square and a trine.

Rock balancing is a delicate art. This rather astounding specimen is by Leandro Inocencio.

This aspect is moving very slowly and that’s giving it extended influence. We’re not used to Mars acting this way, so a spate of unusual feelings are likely to be coming up, along with unusual events.

Those events are described by the disruptive and chaotic nature of Uranus conjunct Eris, and the powerfully individualistic movement of Mars in Scorpio.

Just remember that Mars in this scenario is not interested in ideology. It’s interested in the reality described by one’s inner experience. If you’re feeling fear, pain, chaos or exhaustion, or have a headache, I suggest you turn your awareness inward.

If you’re keeping your head above water, you have an opportunity to reach into yourself in new ways and make discoveries you’ve never made before.

One comment about the quincunx, which is the 150-degree aspect between the big conjunction and Mars. This is an aspect that allows all parties to the discussion to see one another’s viewpoint clearly. Take advantage of that. This is not a “black and white,” us-versus-them type of situation: it’s one requiring true understanding, movement and compromise.

Mercury, moving faster than Mars and now gathering speed, is square Eris and Uranus. That might be provocative. Remember to drive your mind rather than let it drive you.

Finally, the Moon is now in Libra; this could well foster a calm and measured perspective and a renewed sense of balance, especially as it approaches opposition to Uranus-Eris early tomorrow, July 12.

One of the great gifts of Libra is its devotion to harmony and peace. We could all use a bit more of that just now. It’s certainly important to maintain the flame of your inner truth and keep a healthy skepticism; but with that caveat in place, I’d suggest you soak in whatever friendly vibes or energy you can, making them where there are none.

Many people are exhausted and frustrated; many people feel as if they’re running on a treadmill and cannot get off. You may be in a lot better shape than the people around you. Cut them some slack and do what you reasonably can for them. Be prepared to listen well, open your mind and treat other points of view with diplomacy. The benefits of doing this may surprise you.