Jupiter retrograde means that whatever area of growth you need to work on is so important, extra time is needed to take stock and make sure everything in order before you continue. You may be tested to make sure you are ready to receive the good fortune, new romance, or increased wealth you seek. Perhaps a challenging behavior like greed or addiction has got out of control. In this case, the Jupiter retrograde months will offer a chance to recognize and admit the problem. Things may get so out of control that an intervention or some drastic event must occur to shake you out of your complacency or ignorance. 

 Moderation doesn’t come naturally to either Jupiter or Sagittarius, the sign that it rules. We may have felt over-confident to the point of recklessness, or we may have been acting arrogant or lacking balance. Indulgence and extravagance may have played a theme in your life since Jupiter entered Sagittarius in November 2018. Perhaps gaining weight or spending more money or not looking after your health as much as usual. Jupiter retrograde allows us to take a step back a re-evaluate what is not in balance in our lives and gives us time to get back on track.

Jupiter retrograde doesn’t have a whole lot in common with Mercury retrograde. Because Jupiter is a slower-moving planet, its retrograde periods last longer and are less chaotic. Once Jupiter stations direct you should have come to terms with the relevant issues and be ready to bound ahead toward ultimate success and happiness. Jupiter retrograde is a chance to take a step back and reflect on the experiences you gained when Jupiter was direct. This is especially true for people who are immersing themselves in a new, mind-expanding experience, such as studying a subject or traveling abroad, who will find that Jupiter is asking them to take stock of what they’ve learned and gained.