Monthly Archives: June 2017

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Recommendation: “A Man Called Ove”

I recently bought Fredrik Backman’s novel “A Man Called Ove” and watched the movie adaptation of it. And I’ve got to say that the story is one of the my favorite pro-life stories ever. It also made me appreciate life even more.

Here’s a short preview of what the story is about without too many spoilers:

A widower named Ove who visits his beloved wife’s grave and feels lost in grief. Wanting to be with his wife again, he attempts suicide multiple times. Sadly, he keeps getting interrupted from his suicide attempts. Eventually, his neighbors help heal his pain and Ove’s background is slowly revealed as the story unfolds.

I’m so glad I remembered to read that book because I have a ton of books in my to-read list! (If you’re interested in creating book lists and getting reading recommendations, then check out GoodReads.)

I seldomly think that book-to-film adaptations are good. Luckily, the movie version of “A Man Called Ove” really impressed me.

I’m not sure if the movie is still in the theaters, but you can always purchase the book.

The book has been on sale for quite a long time at various stores. (I think I bought my copy at around 10 USD.)

If you have any other reading recommendations, feel free to post them below!

Also, check out the discussion forums in GoodReads for “A Man Called Ove” or any other book that you enjoyed reading. Those forums are a great way for you to mingle with or find fans just like you.

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Arthritis and Tai Chi

Regardless of whether or not you have arthritis, tai chi is a great way to better your health and a simple exercise to incorporate into your daily schedule.

While medications can only provide temporary relief for arthritis, tai chi can help decrease pain in joints; progressively improve cardio and respiratory functions; strengthen the body; improve hand-eye coordination; and help prevent falls.

Because tai chi is a relaxing and slow-paced exercise, I highly recommend that you start your day with it. (Also, if you’re interested, read my previous blog post on tips for exercising early.)

You don’t have to practice tai chi alone; there are tai chi classes and groups that you can join.

If you ‘re interested in learning tai chi, here are some videos and guides to get you started:

Tai Chi for Health Institute

 

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Delicious Ways to Grill Bell Peppers, Onions, and Eggplants

This list contains recipes by Alex Guarnaschelli, one of the judges from my favorite Food Network show “Chopped”.

“Chopped” is a cooking tv game show in which four chefs compete against each other.

I hope you all enjoy grilling these yummy vegetables!

If you have any suggestions, please feel free to leave comments below this blog post.

 

1.) Grilled Bell Peppers with Red Wine Vinegar

  • Cut the peppers in half
  • Remove the pit and seeds
  • Sprinkle the interiors with salt, sugar, and cracked black pepper
  • Grill the peppers on high heat for about 5-10 minutes, until they’re kinda tender and charred
  • Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and red wine vinegar

 

2.) Charred Onions with Honey and Cayenne Pepper

  • Thinly slice the onions into rings
  • Grill the rings on high heat for 5-8 minutes, until they have a char and become slightly tender
  • Transfer the rings onto a large skillet (on either the stovetop or grill)
    Caramelize the rings in olive oil with a drizzle of honey, a pinch of salt, and some cayenne pepper
  • Cook the rings over low heat for about 25-30 minutes, until they’re tender

 

3.) Roasted and Grilled Eggplants

  • Cut an eggplant in half lengthwise
  • Turn the halves flesh-side up on a baking sheet
  • Drizzle the eggplants with olive oil
  • Toss dried oregano, paprika, and salt onto the eggplant
  • Roast the eggplant in the oven for about 15-30 minutes, until they’re tender and brown
  • Turn the halves flesh-side down on the hot-end of the grill
  • Cook the eggplant for about 5-10 minutes, until they have a nice char
  • Sprinkle balsamic vinegar onto the eggplant
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Tips for Waking Up Early to Work Out

Not everyone is a morning person. And few of us are eager to work out.

But getting up early and exercising can be an amazing way to start your day!

 

 

1.) Commit to your “why”.

If you want to accomplish something big, and you’re determined to meet your goal, then youcan easily jump out of bed.

 

2.) Make exercising a part of your schedule.

If you’re going to be busy with your career, family, social commitments, etc. later in the day, then try to exercise in the morning.

 

3.) Prioritize sleep.

If you sleep early, then waking up shouldn’t be challenging.

If you can’t prioritize sleep, then don’t force yourself to wake up early. You can accomplish a lot from exercising when you’re well-rested.

 

4.) Stick to a routine.

Do as much prep work as you can the night before, at the latest.

Try to practice the following until your body automatically and comfortably follows them:

  • prepare clothes to wear
  • prepare a workout schedule
  • set an alarm and refuse to hit the “snooze” button
  • move immediately; don’t stay in bed for too long after the alarm goes off
  • eat a light and healthy breakfast to kickstart your morning

 

5.) Start with short workouts.

This is helpful especially for those who are new to early morning exercises. Try starting off your mornings with quick 10-minute workouts first before jumping straight into long and intense workouts.

 

6.) Make it happen everyday.

When you’re developing a new habit, consistency is the key.