The fear factor is more recent. In the past, people saw ups and downs to be a part of life. They consulted an astrologer sometimes for an assurance that a difficult situation is only a passing phase. Besides, planets, other than the Sun and the Moon go retrograde quite frequently. For example, Saturn and Jupiter can be retrograde for four months in an year and a half. Mars goes retrograde for two months every two years. Mercury goes retrograde for 20 days every four months! Retrograde planets only reinforce the idea that life has its ups and downs.