Happy Diwali and Bhandi Chor Divas to all our patients. Wishing you all good health and happiness!

Dr Viswa shares with us some tips on how to enjoy the festivities:

Diwali (Festival of Lights) symbolises the triumph of good over evil. As a community, we have responsibility to celebrate it in a safe and green way.

• Make Rangoli with flowers, turmeric and rice flour to make it chemical free and beautiful.

• Be considerate towards pets and elderly when doing fireworks as unexpected loud noises can cause fear and anxiety. Low noise fireworks are very popular this year and they are the quietest fireworks with same visual effects and colour but no loud noises.

• Do remember the fire risks and do not to leave the candles or oil lamps unattended and never place them near curtains/decorations.

• Traditional Diyas (oil lamps) are made of clay and are environment friendly.

• Switch to healthy versions of sweets with nuts, millets and jaggery instead of refined sugar. Avoiding food wastage is vital to save our planet.

• Say ‘No’ to plastic cutlery and plates and opt for reusable plates or biodegradable compostable plates like bamboo for guests.

• Organic/eco gifts like indoor plants and buying local would make valuable gifts and help our community small businesses. Avoid wrapping gifts in shiny plastic coated papers instead use fabric/recycled paper.

Finally, it is important to wear masks in gatherings and do regular lateral flow tests to protect yourself and others during the current pandemic.

Everyone from St Wulfstan’s surgery are wishing you all a very happy Green Diwali 2021.