How to read the times when a planet seems to move backward.
When a planet appears to move backward from Earth. It means that planet’s energy turns inward or needs a review stretch.
In a chart, the ℞ mark next to a planet means it is retrograde. The Sun and Moon never go retrograde.
Retrograde in a birth chart
A planet that was retrograde when you were born is read as working inward first: you tend to review its theme and shape it in your own way before showing it. It does not mean a weakness.
Retrograde in today's sky
A retrograde period in today's sky is read as a good time to review, repair and finish things, rather than to start something new.
How often each planet goes retrograde
Mercury Retrograde
The period when Mercury is retrograde. Occurs 3-4 times a year, known as a time requiring caution in communication, contracts, and electronic devices.
Venus
About once every year and a half, for around six weeks. It brings relationships, money and what you value back for a second look.
Mars
About once every two years, for around two months. It asks you to check the pace and direction of what you have been pushing forward.
Jupiter to Pluto
Each of them is retrograde for about four to five and a half months every year. Because these periods are long, they are read as the background of longer trends rather than of daily life.