"Autumn's Aroma Creation Bar"

Purpose of the Activity

This activity is designed to engage residents on multiple sensory levels, particularly touch and smell. It provides a wonderful opportunity for self-expression as each person creates a unique scent blend that is meaningful to them. The process can evoke warm memories associated with the autumn season, sparking conversation and social connection among participants. Creating a beautiful, functional item to take back to their room offers a sense of accomplishment and enhances their personal living space.

Materials Needed

For Creating Potpourri:
- Containers: Clear glass jars or decorative bowls (one per participant).
- Base Mix: A large bowl of unscented filler like wood chips, small pinecones, or dried apple slices.
- Dried Botanicals: Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, dried orange slices, bay leaves, and dried flowers (like calendula) for color.
- Tools: Small bowls to hold each botanical, and spoons or scoops for each bowl.

For Creating Room Spray:
- Containers: 2 oz or 4 oz glass or high-quality plastic spray bottles (one per participant).
- Liquids: A pitcher of distilled water and a bottle of witch hazel.
- Tools: Small funnels for easy pouring and liquid measuring cups or spoons.

For Scent Creation:
- Essential Oils: High-quality essential oils such as Sweet Orange, Cinnamon Leaf, Clove, and Cedarwood.
- Tools: Pipettes or droppers for each oil bottle.
- Testing Supplies: Cotton balls for sampling scent combinations.

General Supplies:
- Table Coverings: Protective tablecloths for all work surfaces.
- Labels and Decor: Blank adhesive labels or decorative tags, pens, and twine or ribbon.
- Cleanup: Paper towels and hand wipes.
- Inspiration: A few premade examples of a finished potpourri jar and room spray.

Estimated Duration

45-60 minutes

Ideal Group Size

8-12 participants