Festive Flicks and DIY Tricks: A Home Spa Weekend in December
By
Halima Iqbal
Are you feeling the Decemberistan vibe but not attending any weddings this season? Don't worry, we've got you covered with some fabulous, budget-friendly activities to enjoy at home. Embrace this time for some well-deserved self-love and relaxation!
1. TV Night Extravaganza:
Cuddle up with your coziest blanket and dive into binge watching. Here's what we recommend:
Sam Bahadur
Starring the amazing Vicky Khausal, this movie is a must-watch. Oraan gives it a 9/10 for its incredible acting and engaging storyline.
Animal:
A unique tale featuring Ranbir Kapoor. It's a bit of a rollercoaster, scoring a 3/10 from Oraan, but definitely worth a watch for its unusual plot and OF COURSE Ranbir Kapoor and BOBBY DEOL 😍.
Dubai Bling, Season 2:
Perfect for a mindful binge-watch. It's entertaining and easy-going, earning a 7/10 for its fun factor!
2. Saturday Spa Date - With Yourself!
Pamper yourself with some homemade DIY beauty treatments. Here's how to create a mini spa at home:
Coconut and Banana Mask: Blend ½ ripe banana with 1 tablespoon of coconut milk for a hydrating facial treat. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes for a radiant glow.
Honey and Rosewater Mask: Mix 1 tablespoon each of honey and rosewater. This sweet concoction moisturizes and brightens the skin.
Mayonnaise Hair Treatment: Sounds weird, right? But trust us, apply mayonnaise to your hair, leave it for 30 minutes, and then wash off for luscious locks.
Remember to do a patch test first!
3. Soul-Warming Soup Recipe:
Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly December night. Here's a quick and delicious Chicken Corn Soup recipe, with a twist 😉:
Heat pot, prep chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Dab thighs dry with paper towels, and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Brown chicken: Sear in pot until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate leaving oil in pot.
Sauté veggies: Add onion, carrots, and celery to pot. Sauté 3 minutes, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds longer.
Add broth, seasonings: Pour in chicken broth then return chicken to pot along with stripped corn , bay leaves and thyme. Season soup with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer.
Simmer soup: Reduce heat to low and simmer 15 to 20 minutes.
Shred chicken: Remove chicken and set aside for 5 to 10 minutes then shred.
Add corn kernels and noodles/macaroni to soup. Simmer, covered, for the amount of time listed on the noodles package (usually about 14 to 20 minutes).
Stir in cream: Return to chicken to soup, add cream and parsley. Taste soup for more salt as needed and remove bay leaves
You don't need a wedding or going out to have fun - These at-home activities are perfect for enjoying the festive vibe of Decemberistan while taking care of yourself. Enjoy your TV marathons, pamper yourself with spa treatments, and savor some homemade soup. Here's to a delightful and relaxing weekend! 🌟💕🍜📺💆♀️