But the reason I am called back to Bali over and over again is because of the island’s tremendous spiritual energy. There is a heightened vibration that is quite easy to tap into that is generated by the land and the Balinese people.  They are contagiously happy for no apparent reason that many of us could detect.

How are they so happy?

Sure they live on a magical island but from my pov and from talking to many Balinese people, they are happy because:

1. They put God first. Their spiritual practice, which for most is the Hindu religion, is of utmost priority – before their relationships, job, body, or anything else. They pray multiple times a day and make beautiful offerings to the Gods out of bamboo and flowers. Everywhere you look in Bali there are meaningful symbols that remind them of the spiritual world. Because of this spiritual focus, they are less distracted by ego-based desires. Therefore, they are more focused on treating their land with care and gentleness and each other with kindness and respect.
2. They accept ALL of life. One of my favorites symbols that you see all around Bali is the black and white checkered pattern that represents “good” and “evil.” Or what many of us may call “light” and “dark.” They do not hold unrealistic expectations of life/God of giving them only what they want. The Balinese are aware as humans we live in the “gray” area, meaning we have both light and dark inside. They understand that their primary purpose is to be aware of both and set the intention to be a good, caring and giving person.
   
3. They know that happiness is an inside job.  And they LIVE this – it is not just a concept they get intellectually. They are not victims of their circumstances at all, which to me makes them incredible spiritual teachers. Many of them have so little but their joy is so big. They are so wealthy when it comes to love.  They take full responsibility for their own happiness.