The astrologer then refers to the planetary positions on that day to see if they aspect planets or angles in the natal chart. It is the aspect of adjustment. Issues relating to the planets, and the signs and houses they are in, may need a change or adaptation. Since the term connotes fortune telling, most astrologers refer to this activity as a consultation. Most professional astrologers address not only the natal chart, but also a forecast using planetary progressions, directions, and transits.
Retrograde motion has three stages.
As a planet apparently slows down, it may stay at that point for two or three days. Some of the outer planets appear to be stationary for a week or more. When the planet does start to move, it seems to be moving backwards in the sign. This is the period when a planet is considered to be retrograde. The Ascendant, or the first house cusp sign of the astrological chart.