GBA Lifestyle News
By Yannie Chan | February 2nd, 2016

Three random thoughts from a Hong Kong millennial.

1. No seriously, why do people tell others they look tired? Men and women across ALL ages do this. I’ve had two middle-aged uncles, various aunties, and men and women my age tell me that I look tired, just this past week. What responses do they expect? That yes, I AM tired. Thanks for pointing that out, Sherlock.

Or worse, when I’ve just had 10 hours of sleep actually and have to jokingly admit: “It’s just the way I look, haha?” I can understand that this is maybe how some people try to connect with others, but to my ears, hearing that I look tired just kills my spirits. Unless you’re planning on sharing my workload, then stop saying I look tired with a gasp. It’s Hong Kong and pretty much everyone is tired.

2. I don’t hear people say this often, so I will: I like getting my period. I mean, it feels SO good. The bloated feeling and any tenderness in my breasts I get before my period? GONE. It also means I get a pass for not working out and can devour a basket of fried chicken instead #GuiltFree. After my period, I often feel more energized and my skin looks awesome.

And despite the cramps, I have the luxury to focus on my feelings and spoil myself: to rest and slow down, to eat that chocolate, and to lay down in my bed with a warm water bottle. It’s also honestly such a fun topic to talk about with your girlfriends, from discussing the best pads to sharing various herbal drinks for the pain or funny leakage stories. Periods are awesome.

3. What I’m reading… Chef Dave Chang says Tokyo is “the world’s best food city” and it’s making me want to hop on a plane and visit: “The egg-salad sandwiches at all the convenience stores are amazing. All the fried chicken, delicious. The chain restaurants, amazing. KFC, Pizza Hut, TGI Fridays, Tony Roma’s, you name it. I’ve been to all of them. Guess what? They’re all awesome. You know why? They care a little bit more. That’s it. They just make better fucking food than anywhere else. It’s awesome.” Fair points, but NOTHING will ever replace Hong Kong.