Standard Talks

Between the Cards With Healer Aritra Chatterjee

Tarot reader and healer extraordinaire Aritra Chatterjee is sharing her practice at The Standard, Maldives ‘til August 15.
Wanna make your next Maldives vacation even more magical? We sat down with Aritra to discuss the state of the world, her favorite tarot deck and how she wins skeptics over to the mystical arts.

Describe your reading process for us. Is it all intuition, or is there a method to the magic?

My reading process is a mix of intuition, connection with the universe, and trust in the cards. When I do a tarot reading, it's important that my aura is clear and my energy is calm and receptive. This helps me connect deeply with the cards and the person I'm reading for. I start by creating a peaceful environment, sometimes with candles or soothing music, to enhance the focus and energy flow. As I shuffle and lay out the cards, I concentrate on the questions or concerns at hand. The cards act as a bridge, allowing messages and insights to pass through. Each card's symbols and stories guide the reading, providing clarity and perspective. It's a process of tuning into the energies and allowing the messages to unfold naturally.

 

Tell us how you got into the mystical space. As a kid, were you daydreaming about crystals and chakras?

I've always been enchanted by the mystical and spiritual realms. As a child, I was captivated by the magic of crystals, the secrets of astrology, and the power of energy healing. But what truly sparked my journey was a deep desire to help others navigate life's challenges. I wanted to empower people to understand themselves, their struggles, and their path to growth. Tarot and healing became my passion, my purpose. I felt an insatiable curiosity to explore the spiritual realm, to uncover its secrets, and to share its wisdom with others. My destiny led me to this sacred work, and I'm humbled to be a guide for those seeking clarity, comfort, and transformation.

 

We’ve played around with a lot of tarot decks at The Standard. Do you have a favorite one?

I adore the "Wild Unknown" deck for its unique, nature-inspired illustrations and symbolism and the "Radiant Rider-Waite" deck for its vibrancy, accuracy, and detailed Imagery.

Do you have any pre-reading superstitions or habits, like shuffling the deck a certain number of times?

I don't have a specific number of times I shuffle the cards. Instead, I listen to their whispers, and they guide me to start or stop. I do heal the cards with rock salt and crystals before and after each reading. I also tap on them and pray to the angels daily for guidance and clarity.

 

In addition to tarot, you’re into crystal healing, sound therapy and more. Do you find that all these healing methods are connected?

Yes, I believe all these methods are interconnected. They tap into the same universal energy, promoting balance and harmony.

 

When you’re giving readings in The Maldives, you’re meeting people at their most relaxed. Are people more receptive to tarot readings when they’re in vacation mode?

People are more receptive to readings when relaxed and open. The serene environment of The Maldives allows for deeper connections and insights.

 

Many of us are true believers about tarot, but there are skeptics as well. What would you tell someone who’s not sure about the value of a tarot reading?

Absolutely, I understand that many people are skeptical about tarot reading. It’s natural to question things that seem mystical or unfamiliar. But tarot isn’t about magic and it is more than just predicting the future—it’s an aid for self-reflection. The cards help you see your situation from new angles, like having a deep conversation with your own subconscious. By exploring the symbols and stories in the cards, you can gain insight and make better decisions, fostering personal growth and understanding. 

Which celebrity or historical figure (living or dead) would you love to do a reading for?

I'd love to read for Frida Kahlo – her creativity, strength, and spiritual depth inspire me.

 

If you had to pick one card to symbolize the world at this moment, which one would it be and why?

The “Tower” card represents the current world – upheaval, transformation, and rebirth.

 

After a long day of reading, how do you like to unwind in The Maldives?

After a long day, I unwind with meditation, a peaceful walk by the sea, and deep breathing, allowing the healing power of the ocean to surround me.

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