Category Archives: greek lifestyle

The Mediterranean Diet is a Lifestyle

A GUEST BLOGPOST

DR ROSANNE FREAK-POLI, BSc, BHSc, PhD

Senior Researcher, Epidemiologist, Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow

Last week I was enjoying a coffee at my old local coffee shop when I struck up a conversation with Eugenia, the owner of this blog. I am a life-course epidemiologist, meaning that I am interested in factors across the life course that impact health, well-being, and longevity.

These factors may not be obvious, and much of my work is exploring new potential risk factors for chronic disease. For example, I am currently funded by the National Heart Foundation of Australia to assess whether social connections with other people can prevent heart disease.

Eugenia and I soon realised our common interests in well-being and longevity. However, Eugenia taught me something very important that had escaped my attention. Eugenia was explaining the premise of her books “Greek Life” and “Greek Food For Sharing” which describe the benefits and lifestyle factors of the Mediterranean diet.

I instantly made the common mistake of thinking of the Mediterranean diet as simply the nutritional benefits provided to our bodies, but what Eugenia explained is that the Mediterranean diet is more than this, it is a way of life.

Eugenia explained that the secrets behind this way of living consist of both food and lifestyle factors. These include choosing the freshest and seasonal fruits and vegetables, consuming small quantities of nuts, dried fruits and natural yoghurt, generous amounts of olive oil, enjoying a glass or two of wine with meals and not as stand-alone events. The diet also encompasses multiple servings each week of legumes, two to three servings of seafood a week, and very limited dairy, red meat, and poultry. An abundance of herbs that are used in both cooking and for medicinal purposes, such as herbal teas.Aside from the food, the Mediterranean Lifestyle encompasses having fun, being socially connected with family and friends, laughter, and incidental exercise by way of walking, gardening or dancing. Enjoying a cup of Greek coffee that’s prepared on the stovetop using pulverised coffee, means that this brew is packed with polyphenols and antioxidants, and these contribute to health and longevity.

Greeks are known to take a nap after lunch and this helps the body to rest, restore and reset. Another important lifestyle factor is the fasting rituals that include over 200 days a year where no dairy, meat or poultry is consumed, and this caloric deficit also contributes to health and wellbeing.

I’ve now learnt that these are the reasons why in some parts of Greece people enjoy longevity and good health well into their 90’s and to beyond 100. The island of Ikaria is one such place, and its been named as the island where people forget to die.

Instantly it all made sense. As researchers conducting data analysis we can only assess the variables that are available in the database. If someone is interested in nutritional content, dietary patterns, and food behaviours then they may ask a lot of specific questions about these factors. Some interests are not collected at all, and because of this we would have very little information of the ‘way of life’ that the Mediterranean diet encompasses. An example of this is reflected through much of the lifestyle choices, for example, the importance of social connections that attribute to wellbeing and longevity.

Why does it matter? The public health message that we receive is that the Mediterranean diet is the most beneficial for health. However, if someone decides to make a lifestyle change, then the Mediterranean diet definition only discusses the dietary pattern and nutritional content. Potentially the other elements as discussed above are not provided and therefore the person wanting to make the lifestyle change is not fully informed.

I can see that Eugenia’s books would be of benefit to people wanting to make a positive lifestyle change, not just for health but also for their well-being.

Greek Food For Sharing

I’m super excited to introduce my latest cookbook to you, Greek Food For Sharing; recipes that nourish the soul.

It’s filled with mouthwatering authentic Greek recipes that will tantalise the tastebuds. Take a journey through the pages of this beautiful book brought to life by evocative images that capture the beauty and sophistication of the Mediterranean and the unique flavours of Greece.

Think homemade filo pastry, Rozedes, Paximadia, Yemista, Moussaka and Pastitsio in both tradtional and vegan version for times of Lent, plus a vegan Mageritsa especially for Easter. My aromatic cinnamon rice is a family favourite, and I share with you the absolutely best Avgolemno soup, plus so much more!

Greek Food For Sharing continues the celebration and benefits of the Mediterranean Lifestyle. There is something for everyone including pescetarians, vegetarians, vegans, and of course those who enjoy the classic and delightful flavours of traditional Greek cuisine.

Get yours now!

Australian residents – signed copies of my book are available at these amazing stockists:-

Avenue Bookstore, Albert Park, VIC

Avid Reader, Queensland

Caras, Oakleigh, VIC

Dillon’s Bookshop, Norwood, SA

Dymocks Books, Rundle Mall, Adelaide

Dymocks Books, Glenelg, SA

Dymocks Books, Hyde Park, SA

Greek Bilingual Bookstore, NSW

Hill of Content, Melbourne, VIC

Mostly Books, Mitcham, SA

Mykos The Gift Collection, NSW

Norwood Garden Centre, SA

Once & Again Book Cafe, Plympton, SA

Omega Foods, Hindmarsh, SA

The Greek Providore, NSW

ALSO AVAILABLE AT THE LINKS BELOW

The softcover is available at Amazon Australia here.

The eBook on Amazon is available here.

The softcover is available on Amazon for those living in the US, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, and Canada. Place your orders here.

Learn the secrets of the Mediterranean Lifestyle

You may wonder what all the fuss is around the Mediterranean Diet. I’d like to share the secrets behind this way of living, and why in some parts of Greece, people enjoy longevity and good health well into their 90’s and beyond 100.

Firstly, it’s not simply a diet. More than that, it’s a lifestyle. It’s about choosing the freshest in season fruits and vegetables, enjoying a small quantities of nuts and dried fruits, generous amounts of olive oil, a glass or two of wine, multiple servings each week of legumes, two to three servings of seafood a week, and very limited dairy, red meat, and poultry.

Correctly observed, the Mediterranean Lifestyle also incorporates times of fasting. As a rule each Wednesday and Friday, plus forty days before Easter, the first 15 days of August, 40 days before Christmas, and some other dates in between. That adds up to over 200 days of the year where no dairy, meat and poultry is consumed, and on some of these days oil and wine are also not consumed.

Aside from the food, the Mediterranean Lifestyle encompasses having fun, being socially connected, laughter, dancing, gentle exercise by way of walking, gardening or dancing (did I say fun?), sipping a Greek coffee served in a demitasse cup, enjoying a couple of glasses of wine, and basking in the company of family and friends.

These lifestyle choices are at the core of my book award-winning book Greek Life. If you love Greek food, and admire Greek culture, be sure to order your copies from Amazon. Click on this link to order my books.

Greek Life belongs in the homes of families for whom Greek culture means something.

I’m Eugenia Pantahos, and I thank you for keeping the celebration alive.

xox

Free Calendar from Greek Lifestyle

Welcome to Greek Lifestyle!

I’ve had some wonderful days at my beach house, dipping my toes into the sea, soaking up some sun, enjoying the salt on my skin, and sipping the amazingly delicious Greek style icy cold coffee frappe.

I’ve spent time with my husband, prepared delicious meals and enjoyed the ‘catch of the day’ from his many hours spent fishing. Long walks by the sea helped center my thoughts and my spirit. I ate, drank and celebrated the festive season with our neighbours and indulged in a few too many treats! I planned my year ahead and reflected on the year that was. I quietly celebrated within my heart the joys and accomplishments for me, both as an author and as a professional, and took the valuable time to reflect on the beautiful man my late father was and just how much I’m missing him.

This meant that I was a little late in creating my calendar. So here it is, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be bringing you the first free, downloadable and printable calendar for 2018. You can find the link at the bottom of this post.

As you know, I love thought inspiring philosophy, and I simply love to be organised. As a way to say ‘thank you’ for joining me in the celebration of Greek Life, this simple yet sophisticated calendar will add a touch of glamour to your home or office. I like to put mine on a clipboard in my office and I also keep a copy on my fridge.

The free calendar from Greek Lifestyle offers an inspiring quote, it has plenty of room to make notes for each day of the month, includes a list of the 3 things on your weekly to-do-list, plus a little space for the things that you mustn’t forget.

I do hope that you enjoy this gift from me to you!

Spread the word, and let you family and friends enjoy the experience too.

You can download your free printable calendar here.

Enjoy!

Eugenia xox

Adelaide Dinner – The Idea of Love

ADELAIDE DINNER EVENT

Let’s explore the meaning of love, the ideas held by ancient philosophers, and what it means in our modern world. Come to join the discussion over a 3-course meal, glass of wine and tea/coffee. Bookings essential. Limited Places. Book now!

Beautiful Blue and White

Those who know me well also know that I have a passion for all things blue-and-white, and in my kitchen and living room especially you can see hues of this favourite colour combination, that makes me feel happy and inspired. This timeless colour palette evokes memories of the Aegean with its endless blue skies, and calm seas.

So it follows that when I brought Greek Life (family, culture, food) to life, the front cover would include this beautiful combination, in a truly authentic Hellenic theme. This timeless book inspires readers with the story of family, philosophy, beautiful photography, authentic family recipes and the principles that sit at the heart of the Mediterranean Diet.

Greek Life makes a beautiful addition to your collection, and a meaningful gift for your loved ones, and sits proudly in homes around the world. Now available as an eBook, a softcover and a hardcover. Have you got your copies yet?

The hardcover is in limited supply. You won’t want to miss out on securing copies of this high quality book. Need convincing? Read my reviews. Find a stockist nearest you or order direct from me at jeanie.pantahos@bigpond.com

So join me as I invite you to step inside my living room and share my passion for all things blue-and-white, all set to some passionate Greek music. This little video, of course, also features my book Greek Life.

Join the celebration!

Eugenia xx

Greek Life a Self-Published Success Story

Welcome to Greek Lifestyle!

A little while ago, I learned that my book Greek Life, a celebration of family, culture, and food, was to be shared as an example of what a self-published book could look like. with regard to design, layout, and content. A much respected book store owner who fell in love with Greek Life when she first saw it, was the guest speaker at this event and she had chosen my book as an exemplary example of a self-published book!

What you need to know NOW about Greek Life

A book about family, culture and food by Eugenia Pantahos

My friend Doris had called me excitedly to let me know that that my book Greek Life was to be discussed at this event. Naturally I jumped at the opportunity and eagerly accepted Doris’ invitation to join her, and when I arrived I found that Doris had reserved a place for me to sit next to her . The two of us were first time authors and we listened and learned about others who had gone before us on this unknown journey of writing and publishing.

You can only imagine my surprise that Greek Life was to be showcased by such a respected person, and of course, how could I not go along to listen to what she had to say.

I sat there in awe, watching her hold up my book, and talk about not only the design elements, but also about the way in which I wrote Greek Life, describing it as tenderly written. I know that my readers express the same experience when reading Greek Life, often being moved by the story of family and the anthologies surrounding the food.

This lady was so passionate about my book, and what was amazing is that with her expertise and years of experience she instantly recognised the ‘non-negotiable’ design elements that I had envisioned for my book.

It was a moment that I won’t forget, seeing my book being held up for all to see, and certain pages shown to the audience. Seeing this through the eyes of an audience member, but also as the author, was surreal and humbling. I felt quietly proud to have my book discussed so passionately.I was simply amazed that my book had been chosen for this event, and thank Charmaine from Mostly Books for her heartfelt and professional views.

Eugenia Pantahos is bringing her book Greek Life to Canberra. Join her as she shares her story. Signed copies of this limited edition book available on the night. Don't miss out!!!

Greek Life – a self publishing success story

When bringing Greek Life to life, my vision was to publish a book of the highest quality, one that created a celebration around Greek culture, and one that was supported by thought inspiring philosophy and beautiful photography. Choosing the final fonts and colour schemes, and the placement of images in a meaningful way, meant that Greek Life is now regarded as the foremost book on Greek culture. That’s something I’m truly proud of.

Join those around the world who have placed Greek Life at the heart of their homes. Learn about the essence of the Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle that is celebrated through seasonal and delicious food both for times of celebration and for observing cultural events. Be moved by the story of family and migration, and harness your inner domestic god or goddess as you experience ‘real’ Greek food. Expand your thinking with thought inspiring philosophy, and take an intimate journey with me through the pages of Greek Life.

If you would like to watch this short 2 minute expose start listening from 19 minutes in 🙂

I hope you enjoy this little clip!

Eugenia xox

Halcyon Days

Welcome to GL!

Just last week I was sitting at a cafe with my father enjoying a cup of coffee and sharing a galaktoboureko (Greek custard and pastry). We were sitting outside soaking up the sun on this late June day, being the end of the first month of an Australian winter. I was explaining to dad that when traveling in Greece a few years ago, I had learned some new words, one of which was Alcyonides.

In Greece, the Alcyonides is the name for the two weeks in winter from just after Christmas to the middle of January, when the skies are clear, the sun shines, and the days are windless, beautiful and calm. This 14 day period takes place 7 days either side of the shortest day of the year.

We were indeed experiencing the Southern Hemisphere Alcyonides whilst sipping our coffee and enjoying our sweet. I was transported to the time when my family and I were staying in Ancient Olympia in the middle of January (northern Winter), and experienced first hand this exact phenomenon, sitting in t-shirts and soaking up the winter sun.

This morning I walked from my home to a cafe at a nearby suburb and again found myself thinking about our holiday, especially with the beautiful winter days that we are experiencing here at the moment. Whilst waiting in line to order my coffee, I thought fondly of our trip as the Halcyon Days. In that moment I had an epiphany that Halcyon was the English interpretation of the Greek word of Alkyonides. There it was, a flash of lightning, a moment of clarity and truth. It was the translation of the Greek word that had been on my mind for the last few days.

In Greek mythology, the Alkyonides were the seven daughters of Alcyoneus who was slain by Heracles. The daughters, in despair, threw themselves into the sea and were transformed into kingfisher birds.

Another myth tells the story of a devoted and loving couple Alcyone (kingfisher) and her husband Ceyx, who sacreligiously called each other ‘Zeus’ and ‘Hera’. This angered the gods, and Ceyx’s ship was struck with a thunderbolt. On learning this, Alcyone threw herself into the sea. The Gods changed them both into Halcyon birds. It is believed that this two week period allowed Alcyone, now a kingfisher, to lay her eggs and make a nest on the beach safely, without wind and waves.

Walking back from the cafe on this beautiful winter’s day, I came across two little birds intertwined on the footpath, playing joyfully, and I thought, yes, these are indeed the Halcyon Days!

Eugenia xx

Taking Greek Life to Canberra

Welcome to GL!

I’ve had a couple of wonderful days in our Capital City, Canberra. It’s the first time that I’ve visited this city, and the aerial view was quite impressive. The people are so friendly, and my taxi drivers were so informative and helpful.

Having been invited to share the story behind my book Greek Life, I was so happy to meet some truly wonderful people who came along to share in my story.

You may remember, that the last blog post was written at Melbourne airport whilst I was waiting for my connecting flight to Canberra. After boarding and settling back in the window seat, a lady named Therese sat at the aisle seat.

Introductions were made, and soon we started chatting and it was truly so lovely to meet this wonderful and worldly lady who was heading back to Canberra to visit her friend and her mum. After learning that I was presenting an author talk, Therese said she was hoping to bring her friend Donna to my event at the Hellenic Club. As you can imagine, I was so truly thrilled to see that both Therese and Donna came along to my talk, and that they went home with signed and personalized copies of Greek Life!

Upon arriving at the Aegean Room at the Hellenic Club, I was also surprised to see that there were people waiting to see me, to chat, and to secure signed copies of Greek Life before the event. A few people purchased one copy, only to come back a few minutes later to buy more.

The Hellenic Club at Woden, did a beautiful job spoiling guests with a delicious buffet of cheese, crackers, and platters of fruit prepared by the catering team, served with a choice of wines or tea and coffee. I also wanted to showcase some of the lovely chocolates made by the iconic South Australian chocolate makers, Haigh’s Chocolates, so guests also got to savour some delicious dark pastels.

After a wonderful introduction by Yiota, it was my turn to share the story of Greek Life, the story of my family, the philosophy, some personal photographs from our family archives as well as images of just some of the food found in Greek Life, based on the principles of the Mediterranean Diet/Lifestyle.

At the end of the presentation, people stayed back and shared with me what the book means to them. The feedback was sincere and inspiring, and I felt so happy to have made meaningful connections with those who came along. After a chat with Yiota, and meeting the President of the Hellenic Club, it was off to bed for me, but not before enjoying a sneaky night-cap (ok…a glass of wine)!

After a restful sleep, and some peppermint tea, I caught up with a family friend for a delicious and healthy brunch at 80/20 on Lonsdale Street. I managed to squeeze in some sight seeing, with my first stop being the National Library of Australia. I signed up to become a member so that I could request that my copy of Greek Life, that was gifted to the Library when first published, could be brought up so that I could have a photograph taken. It was such a beautiful and special moment in my journey so far.

Naturally, this auspicious occasion deserved a little personal celebration. The National Library has a lovely cafe and in the spirit of celebrating in style, I decided to order some sparkling wine (the sign did read ‘press for champagne’) and a serve of a coconut and raspberry cake; scraping off the rich cream cheese topping of course!

It was a little decadent, and I loved every minute of it. This private moment of stopping, acknowledging, and celebrating is just as important as the journey. You see it has taken much dedication, vision, strategy, commitment, and determination to make this happen. To back myself, to live a dream out loud, whilst also being a daughter, sister, wife, and mother to 3 amazing girls.

After my little celebration I continued taking in some of the main sights of Canberra, taking a lovely stroll to the National Portrait Gallery, which is an absolute must visit when in this city. The photo to the left is my own ‘self portrait’ titled ‘Rear Mirror’. A little bit of fun in the ladies; I hope you like it (insert wink)!

I admired the work of some amazing artists and in particular I liked the portrait of Carla Zampatti (Australian Fashion Icon), Paul Grabowski (Musician/Composer), Ronnie Tjampitijimpa (Indigenous Australian), and a tall striking portrait of a judge (the name escapes me). I meandered my way to the National Art Gallery and was captivated by the beautiful composition and shimmering colours of Monet’s Water Lillies, a must do if you’re in our capital city.

On the lower ground floor on the way back to the cloak room I got see some amazing indigenous art, before taking a taxi for a quick stop at the Kingston foreshore for a promenade whilst having a wrap-up phone call with Yiota before heading to the airport to take a direct flight home and be reunited with my family.

If you’re living in Canberra, and missed the talk, or if you did come along and would like more copies of Greek Life, then please visit Yiota Eleftheriou at the Hellenic Club at Woden.

There are limited copies of Greek Life in stock there, and that means you’ll save on the postage and handling costs. So now’s the time to secure your copies. It’s never too early to get your loved ones a timeless and beautiful gift for Christmas, or graduations, birthdays and more!

Thanks for joining the celebration that is Greek Life, and thank you for your continued support!

Eugenia xx

Greek Life – people tell me it’s the best!

Welcome to GL!

When I embarked on my self-publishing journey I soon realised that this small business venture of mine as a first time author also needed much focus and dedication to get my book into the right businesses. The types of business that were well know for their great customer service, their professionalism, offering a great mix of genres, and who were quite simply ‘great operators’. I knew intimately, that my book Greek Life was to be stocked in only the best stores in Australia.

With that in mind, I went firstly to the stores that I shopped in here in South Australia, and was overjoyed when these wonderful bookstore managers agreed to stock Greek Life. My list of stockists grew steadily in SA, Victoria, and New South Wales, and before I knew it my first print run had sold out.

I then pondered the idea of a reprint. Well how could I not go down this path with over 200 books on back-order? And so, the second print run, that was slightly delayed due to personal commitments, was eventually delivered a few days before Christmas.

My back orders were filled just in time for the festive season and there was something quite satisfying knowing that I hadn’t let people down. You see, my word is my calling card!

This now gave me the wonderful opportunity to seek stockists in other states in Australia, and soon Greek Life would be stocked in a few more shops in Melbourne, and new markets would be found in Queensland, Tasmania, and WA. I’m delighted that Greek Life can now be found in almost each state and territory within Australia.

My next goal is to have Greek Life stocked in the Northern Territory! With only limited stock available, it would be wonderful for all people across Australia for whom Greek culture means something, to be able to secure copies of Greek Life for their families, friends, and loved-ones.

Within its pages, readers will go on a remarkable journey with the story of family and migration, and join the unique, beautiful and inimitable celebrations that surround New Years, Easter, Christmas, Love and Other Ceremonies, Births and Baptisms, and Honoring our Loved Ones. At the core is the philosophy of the Greek way of life that encompasses the benefits of the Mediterranean Lifestyle, plus so much more.

Interwoven within its pages, is thought inspiring philosophy and beautiful and sumptuous full colour photography. Greek Life transports readers through a visual and culinary journey like no other!

Greek Life is the perfect gift for birthdays, graduations, kitchen teas, Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day, Valentines Day and more. So love the one you’re with, and give the gift that keeps giving.

Eugenia xx