It is Diwali time and once again a time to celebrate Diwali with family and some friends.

It is always a special time, though like at Christmas it can have its challenges too.

“Diwali” means the festival of lights and it is a time of rejoicing. It is the holy Hindu tradition that symbolises the victory of light over darkness and also traditionally marks the beginning of the New Year.

Here in the UK, the skies are usually ablaze with deafening fireworks as Indians carried on the traditional way of celebrating.

Diwali is a festival to resolve personal discord and familial conflict, to increase love, unity and harmony.

People also clean up their homes and let go of the past. They will forgive and forget misdeeds of the past and resolve to spend the coming year in peace, harmony, purity and to earn Lakshmi (wealth) by observing Dharma (righteous conduct).

However, one does not need to wait till next Diwali to forgive and forget!

Who do you need to forgive and let go of today?

Diwali time is a period of rejoicing and celebration – and also of looking back at the last year with gratitude. But again, you need not wait till next Diwali to rejoice.

Just how can you rejoice and celebrate in your life today?

Of course, an attitude of gratitude invites grace and more abundance to enter into your lives.

How do you show gratitude?

Whilst we are discussing Diwali and light, remember that it is also time for you to let your own light shine.

When we celebrate Diwali or indeed Christmas, Ramadhan, Hanukkah or any other festival, there is a special magic in the air. Life seems joyous and people are much happier and friendlier.

Some people though always seem to be happy, smiling and full of sunshine, festival or no festival.

How do they do it?!

Also, have you ever wondered what it would be like to have this joy of Diwali and a sunny outlook, all year round?

Here are my tips on helping you do just that.

1. Accept that it is Okay and Normal to be Happy and Joyful

Do not see being happy as being unduly selfish, or materialistic, or self-centred.

2. Live your Life with Positive Optimism

Negative thoughts and worry zap your energy. Thinking of the good and positive things in your life generates feelings of warmth and appreciation, and draws even more positive things to you. Spend more time with positive people – limit your input of negativity such as through the media.

3. Show Gratitude

Just take a second and appreciate that you are alive! Be happy with what you’ve got – not what you want. Focus on what is right in your life rather than what is wrong. Appreciate what you have.

4. Smile

Sounds simple and it is. Try this today when you go out – smile at everyone you see. You may be surprised at what comes back to you.

5. Connect with People Without Wanting Anything from Them

Make at least one friendly phone call each day, with no intention to get some business or anything else. Just a friendly hello without any expectation.

6. Appreciate the Nature around You

Literally, stop and smell the roses. Every now and then, look at a sunset, cloud formation or trees. We are all too busy – become present to the beauty of nature and keep at it.

7. Eat Healthy and Quality Food

How joyous you feel depends so much on what you are putting into your body. You need and deserve quality foods.

8. Exercise Regularly and Make it Fun

Take 30 minutes out of your day to work your muscles and strengthen your body, mind and spirit. Start exercising now and experiment until you find something you truly enjoy.

9. Get Sufficient Sleep

This is vital to keep you shining and joyous. Determine just how much sleep your body needs and make sure you get it. Make your bedroom a peaceful place for you.

10. Do Something for Someone Else

Random acts of kindness are magical and giving of yourself is one of the best joys of life. For example, let other drivers into your lane and have a friendly conversation with the cashier at the supermarket.

Become conscious of the joy you get from all your positive acts. When you give the gift of a smile or a kind word, you create a wonderful ripple effect of joy that touches many and helps build bridges between everyone.

We can all indeed have that magical, festival joy all year round.

Here’s to many more Diwalis and other festivals full of joy:-)

And also remember to make every day from now onwards a day full of joy and sunshine.