Today I was going to write a post about choosing to be strong and fit, about being motivated by strong, independent women. But things don't always turn out the way you plan and today I woke up to news of the Boston Bombing.
While the motivation behind this attack is currently unclear, what is apparent is that these incidents can occur anywhere, at any time.
But in times of great loss, people can also find great strength.
I was in London during the 2005 bombings and though many businesses closed their doors for the day, people didn't retreat. The pubs were full of people contemplating and discussing the day's events, and others congregated in the streets. It brought people closer together.
So instead of aspiring to be strong and fit, today I am aspiring to connect more with those close to me and to live life to fullest.
- Dani
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Tokyo
This post is about my time in Tokyo, Japan. It was such a fantastic experience and I feel that if I don't write it down somewhere 'permanent' then I might start forgetting the details. So I hope you don't mind if I share this adventure with you.
***
Japan, land of the rising sun, home of samurais, ninjas and geishas, of temples, towers and (super fast) trains. While Japan has never been at the top of my 'go to' list, I've had a fascination with the country and culture since I was taught Japanese in primary school.
I can't really remember how it happened, but at some point Dan and I decided that we wanted to go to Japan. So Japan leapt ahead of South America and India (at the top of my current 'travel list'), and we booked flights, accommodation, etc.
Sensei Zucchini (Zucchini wasn't actually her name, but we were young and it sounded similar) was the first person to introduce me to Japan. She was my primary school's Japanese teacher and I was probably 8 years old. Over the next couple of years, Sensei Zucchini taught us Japanese characters, simple words and how to pick up popcorn with chopsticks.
While I didn't have to write any Japanese or pick up popcorn with chopsticks (they use their hands just like us), this introduction proved invaluable. My accent was understandable and our awareness of their culture/traditions helped avoid embarrassment.
There is potential for this post to turn into a bit of thesis, so I'll try to keep things as brief as possible.
Our first day involved: Napping on the train ride from the airport for Tokyo station; exploring Shinjuku by day; exploring Shinkjuku by night; eating dinner in Shibuya; visiting Meiji Shrine during the crazy festivities of Shogatsu; oh and how could I forget, counting down (from 60 - wha?) to the New Year at the most packed bar I've ever been to in my life.
Yes, Dan and I arrived in Tokyo on New Years Eve. Most people in Japan go to temples (or a j-pop concert if you're in Tokyo), and there is very in little in the way of big public events (i.e., no fireworks). But we found a gajin (foreigner) bar and it became one of the most uncomfortable moments in my life. It was physically impossible to move from one area of the bar to another. At one point a Japanese lady seemed glued against Dan while we tried to make an exit. It was so packed, she literally got dragged along by the people trying to leave. But I would never take back that experience... it was certainly a memorable night.
The rest of our adventures in Tokyo completely won me over. I'm going to say it - I love Tokyo.
From the madness of the shopping districts, to the tranquillity of some of the temples/parks (though the temples have more of a festival feel near the New Year), to the laid-back, jovial atmosphere in the 'pubs'. Tokyo seemed to have everything.
I feel incredibly lucky that Dan and I had a chance to see 'quiet Tokyo' and 'bustling Tokyo'. Let me explain. Around the New Year Japanese people celebrate Shogatsu and during this period many people gather with their families, often outside the major cities. So during our first 3 days in Tokyo, quite a few restaurants were closed, streets were desolate and crowds were at a minimum. Upon our return to Toyko, before our flight back home, we encountered packed trains, crowded markets and activity on every corner. Tokyo was alive and vibrant - it was energising.
Before my visit, most people told me "you don't need long in Tokyo", but I entirely disagree. If you only want to see temples and museums, then Tokyo might not have as much to offer as say... Kyoto. But there is more to Japan than 'the old world'. Each little area of Tokyo has something different to offer and we didn't even see 10% of it. Furthermore, there are so many day trips you can do from Tokyo.
Dan and I could have spent to the entire two weeks based in Tokyo. But we didn't.
Hopefully there will be a next time.
- Dani
Our first day involved: Napping on the train ride from the airport for Tokyo station; exploring Shinjuku by day; exploring Shinkjuku by night; eating dinner in Shibuya; visiting Meiji Shrine during the crazy festivities of Shogatsu; oh and how could I forget, counting down (from 60 - wha?) to the New Year at the most packed bar I've ever been to in my life.
Shinjuku
Meiji Shrine
The end of a ridiculously long count down at a gaijin bar in Shinjuku
Shinjuku on NYE
The rest of our adventures in Tokyo completely won me over. I'm going to say it - I love Tokyo.
From the madness of the shopping districts, to the tranquillity of some of the temples/parks (though the temples have more of a festival feel near the New Year), to the laid-back, jovial atmosphere in the 'pubs'. Tokyo seemed to have everything.
Ameyoko shopping street, Ueno
Roppongi Hills
Yakitori bar in Ueno
Wasabi for sale at Tsukiji Fish Market
Meiji Shine
Ramen at Ippudo
Photos from our visit to a Maid Cafe in Akihabara
Ueno Park
I feel incredibly lucky that Dan and I had a chance to see 'quiet Tokyo' and 'bustling Tokyo'. Let me explain. Around the New Year Japanese people celebrate Shogatsu and during this period many people gather with their families, often outside the major cities. So during our first 3 days in Tokyo, quite a few restaurants were closed, streets were desolate and crowds were at a minimum. Upon our return to Toyko, before our flight back home, we encountered packed trains, crowded markets and activity on every corner. Tokyo was alive and vibrant - it was energising.
A very quiet Ginza on New Years Day
Lively Shibuya
View from our hotel room, Hanzomon
Before my visit, most people told me "you don't need long in Tokyo", but I entirely disagree. If you only want to see temples and museums, then Tokyo might not have as much to offer as say... Kyoto. But there is more to Japan than 'the old world'. Each little area of Tokyo has something different to offer and we didn't even see 10% of it. Furthermore, there are so many day trips you can do from Tokyo.
Dan and I could have spent to the entire two weeks based in Tokyo. But we didn't.
Hopefully there will be a next time.
- Dani
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
sisterhood
Hello peeps! I hope you all had a fantastic Easter long weekend. I spent the whole weekend with two of my sisters. We cavorted our way around Melbourne and, thankfully, didn't indulge in too much chocolate (yay!), although I probably did indulge a little too much in everything else (comedy, popcorn, Lebanese food, etc).
But let's be honest, you can never have enough comedy, and clearly we couldn't get enough of Hannah Gadsby - we saw both her shows. Yep she has two different shows as part of the Melbourne International Comedy festival and we saw both... in the same weekend.
And do you know what? She was hilarious! So no regrets here. If I was going to recommend one show over the other though, I would recommend seeing 'Happiness is a bedside table'. Her 'Nakedy Nudes' show at the National Gallery of Victoria is intriguing, but not as laugh-until-your-cheeks-hurt funny.
Basically the rest of the weekend was filled with shopping and SingStar, dancing and drinks, family, friends and lots of food. Four full days of rest and frivolity.
Brunch at Le Miel
Proof that there was some sunshine
Cheers to the sisterhood!
- Dani
But let's be honest, you can never have enough comedy, and clearly we couldn't get enough of Hannah Gadsby - we saw both her shows. Yep she has two different shows as part of the Melbourne International Comedy festival and we saw both... in the same weekend.
Pic from comedyfestival.com.au
And do you know what? She was hilarious! So no regrets here. If I was going to recommend one show over the other though, I would recommend seeing 'Happiness is a bedside table'. Her 'Nakedy Nudes' show at the National Gallery of Victoria is intriguing, but not as laugh-until-your-cheeks-hurt funny.
Basically the rest of the weekend was filled with shopping and SingStar, dancing and drinks, family, friends and lots of food. Four full days of rest and frivolity.
Driving around
SingStar
Uncle Alan's 50th
My gorgeous sisters
Family lunch
Morning walk to Princes Pier
Easter goodies bag
Sisters
Cheers to the sisterhood!
- Dani
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
bad news
My sight is fine, but my vision is hazy.
Each sense is struggling, sloth-like, lazy.
An intense pressure, a gravitational force.
Slowing each movement, swaying my course.
It had been so long, since these eyes saw your face.
A youthful image, I can now never replace.
I didn't miss you, but now that you are gone,
A feeling has grown, something dark and forlorn.
Dear time, oh shadows, will you give me no rest.
These good young people, were giving their best.
No logic or pattern, no announcement or sign.
This game of life, is not so benign.
Sooner or later, we all fall and fade.
Relinquishing life and memories made.
- Dani
Each sense is struggling, sloth-like, lazy.
An intense pressure, a gravitational force.
Slowing each movement, swaying my course.
It had been so long, since these eyes saw your face.
A youthful image, I can now never replace.
I didn't miss you, but now that you are gone,
A feeling has grown, something dark and forlorn.
Dear time, oh shadows, will you give me no rest.
These good young people, were giving their best.
No logic or pattern, no announcement or sign.
This game of life, is not so benign.
Sooner or later, we all fall and fade.
Relinquishing life and memories made.
- Dani
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
relax
Oh what a lovely long weekend... Forgive me if I get lost in dreamy thoughts while writing this post.
In a nut shell: 3 days, no work, lots of sunshine, plenty of rest.
I spent the weekend at Blairgowrie, down on the Mornington Peninsula, with Dan and Maple (Dan's dog). We explored the bay and the back beach, and even a few of the shops near by. We had time to read, sleep-in and muck around. It was amazing.
I tend to use holidays as a chance to explore the world and do/see as much as possible. While this is a fantastic way to make the most of each holiday, it can be exhausting. This mini trip helped me to realise how important it is to relax every now and then.
The benefits of relaxation are plentiful, from physical to mental health benefits, and a lack a relaxation can lead to undue stress, which has been extensively linked to poor health outcomes.
While we obviously can't arrange a long weekend for ourselves whenever we need to wind down, learning how to relax or engaging in relaxing behaviour on a regular basis is a key to healthy living. For some people a gym session relieves stress, while others prefer a bubble bath. Whatever it is that relaxes you, make the time to do it at least once this week.
In the words of Jackie Chan, "Sometimes I do need to go to karaoke, sometimes I need to relax."
- Dani
In a nut shell: 3 days, no work, lots of sunshine, plenty of rest.
I spent the weekend at Blairgowrie, down on the Mornington Peninsula, with Dan and Maple (Dan's dog). We explored the bay and the back beach, and even a few of the shops near by. We had time to read, sleep-in and muck around. It was amazing.
I tend to use holidays as a chance to explore the world and do/see as much as possible. While this is a fantastic way to make the most of each holiday, it can be exhausting. This mini trip helped me to realise how important it is to relax every now and then.
The benefits of relaxation are plentiful, from physical to mental health benefits, and a lack a relaxation can lead to undue stress, which has been extensively linked to poor health outcomes.
While we obviously can't arrange a long weekend for ourselves whenever we need to wind down, learning how to relax or engaging in relaxing behaviour on a regular basis is a key to healthy living. For some people a gym session relieves stress, while others prefer a bubble bath. Whatever it is that relaxes you, make the time to do it at least once this week.
In the words of Jackie Chan, "Sometimes I do need to go to karaoke, sometimes I need to relax."
- Dani
Thursday, March 7, 2013
a good (re)start
Well, it has been a good start to the week, particularly on the health front. I have been eating clean, healthy food, without over indulging. Surprise, surprise... planning/being prepared seems to be a key element in this success.
Warm chicken quinoa salad with chilli zucchini and garlic broccoli (I just use whatever greens I have in the house at the time) has to be one of my all time favourite meals. (Thanks Heidi! Get the recipe here.)
Even something as simple a freshly chopped pineapple for breakfast, has helped me feel healthier and energised. (And feeling more energised is big thing for me.)
Dan has also been putting his inner chef to work and created a delicious, mostly healthy, Caesar salad.
After my recent hiatus at the gym, I can't believe that I am actually smashing out gym sessions. My overall endurance has definitely decreased, but my strength and my determination don't seem to have dwindled. I even managed a personal best on the rowing ergo yesterday.
But all is not perfect. I had a can of Coke Zero yesterday and after my gym session on Monday night I had the appetite of an animal preparing for hibernation. Though I still managed to eat decent food, it was a much larger meal than I should've eaten.
As previously mentioned, I am currently researching why people overeat and choose the 'wrong' food.
In particular, I am always baffled as to why I crave pizza when I know I enjoy eating a roast veg salad more. It doesn't seem to matter how much beautiful, healthy, fresh food I prepare, I still crave junk food. And I'm sure I am not alone in this.
Regardless, there is no magic pill that will change my attitude towards food - and even if there was, I wouldn't want to take it - I am determined to make these changes on my own. I just need a way to ensure I keep on making these changes. Hmm, if only it was that easy.
- Dani
Warm chicken quinoa salad with chilli zucchini and garlic broccoli (I just use whatever greens I have in the house at the time) has to be one of my all time favourite meals. (Thanks Heidi! Get the recipe here.)
Even something as simple a freshly chopped pineapple for breakfast, has helped me feel healthier and energised. (And feeling more energised is big thing for me.)
Dan has also been putting his inner chef to work and created a delicious, mostly healthy, Caesar salad.
After my recent hiatus at the gym, I can't believe that I am actually smashing out gym sessions. My overall endurance has definitely decreased, but my strength and my determination don't seem to have dwindled. I even managed a personal best on the rowing ergo yesterday.
But all is not perfect. I had a can of Coke Zero yesterday and after my gym session on Monday night I had the appetite of an animal preparing for hibernation. Though I still managed to eat decent food, it was a much larger meal than I should've eaten.
As previously mentioned, I am currently researching why people overeat and choose the 'wrong' food.
In particular, I am always baffled as to why I crave pizza when I know I enjoy eating a roast veg salad more. It doesn't seem to matter how much beautiful, healthy, fresh food I prepare, I still crave junk food. And I'm sure I am not alone in this.
Regardless, there is no magic pill that will change my attitude towards food - and even if there was, I wouldn't want to take it - I am determined to make these changes on my own. I just need a way to ensure I keep on making these changes. Hmm, if only it was that easy.
- Dani
Monday, March 4, 2013
slowly, slowly
Did you know that I've been to the Himalayas?
I climbed to Annapurna base camp, which is 4130m above see level. The entire trek, all two weeks of it, was one of the hardest but most rewarding things I have ever done. By the time we flew out of Jomsom, my legs we constantly aching, my bowels were exhausted but my sense of accomplishment had never been greater.
I wasn't the fittest person when I did this trek, furthermore I have exercise induced asthma. So as you might imagine, I often ended up at the back of the group with the Sherpa (Dawa) and his constantly reassuring words - "slowly, slowly".
Though I'm not climbing a mountain now, these two journeys (the trek and my transformation journey) have many parallels... and Dawa's advice still rings true.
Lately, I have eaten badly, drunk less water (but more alcohol/soft drink) and reduced my level of activity. I haven't been transforming, I am regressing.
As you might have gathered from my previous post, this is frustrating me. But guess what? I still made poor choices even after that post. Rather than continue the cycle of good behaviour, then bad behaviour, then frustration, followed by hopelessness. I'm trying to focus on progressing consistently, even if it is slowly, slowly - making better choices as often as possible.
So I've starting looking into overeating and compulsive eating. Just to see if any insights there might help me. I love research and education. And although I already know a bit about health, exercise, the body and the mind, it never hurts to learn more.
Now I have two books to read: The End of Overeating (by David Kessler) and The Headspace Diet (by Andy Puddicombe), and there is plenty more research to do.
I'm not looking for a diet or a quick fix, I guess I'm just looking for something that will help everything 'click'. I know there is a healthier version of me, I just haven't had to determination to become her yet.
Anyways, I will let you know what I uncover.
- Dani
I climbed to Annapurna base camp, which is 4130m above see level. The entire trek, all two weeks of it, was one of the hardest but most rewarding things I have ever done. By the time we flew out of Jomsom, my legs we constantly aching, my bowels were exhausted but my sense of accomplishment had never been greater.
I wasn't the fittest person when I did this trek, furthermore I have exercise induced asthma. So as you might imagine, I often ended up at the back of the group with the Sherpa (Dawa) and his constantly reassuring words - "slowly, slowly".
Though I'm not climbing a mountain now, these two journeys (the trek and my transformation journey) have many parallels... and Dawa's advice still rings true.
Lately, I have eaten badly, drunk less water (but more alcohol/soft drink) and reduced my level of activity. I haven't been transforming, I am regressing.
As you might have gathered from my previous post, this is frustrating me. But guess what? I still made poor choices even after that post. Rather than continue the cycle of good behaviour, then bad behaviour, then frustration, followed by hopelessness. I'm trying to focus on progressing consistently, even if it is slowly, slowly - making better choices as often as possible.
So I've starting looking into overeating and compulsive eating. Just to see if any insights there might help me. I love research and education. And although I already know a bit about health, exercise, the body and the mind, it never hurts to learn more.
Now I have two books to read: The End of Overeating (by David Kessler) and The Headspace Diet (by Andy Puddicombe), and there is plenty more research to do.
I'm not looking for a diet or a quick fix, I guess I'm just looking for something that will help everything 'click'. I know there is a healthier version of me, I just haven't had to determination to become her yet.
Anyways, I will let you know what I uncover.
- Dani
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