While they are in shedding mode and their eyes are in the blue phase or as often refered to as milky, their eye sight is greatly reduced so they will often hide and keep out of sight as this makes them feel safe. I do handle/ move my snakes only if needed during this time.
Times between sheds will vary greatly according to how often you feed them, feed more often they will shed more often and if you feed less they will shed less.
Misting is a personal choice but unless your breed of snake comes from a area where high humidity encountered I wouldn't really bother unless you have previously experienced problems with shedding in the past.
If you search the site you will find plenty of info about shedding. Hope this is of some help.