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  • Beats, Smiles, and Something We’ll Never Forget

    By the AKA Rōpū Waiata Team This month, a few of us from the Rōpū Waiata had the chance to do something we’ll never forget. We visited the Wilson Home Centre and ran a Cardio Drumming session for some of the most incredible kids we’ve ever met. We came in carrying drumsticks and yoga balls. We left with hearts that felt a little fuller and minds that were completely changed. Wilson Home Centre supports children and young people with physical disabilities. Most of the kids we met were under 21 and had a wide range of abilities. But one thing was clear the moment we started the beat; these young people knew how to feel joy and they reminded us how powerful that feeling can be. As the music started and the drumming began, everything else faded. There was laughter. There were big smiles. There was rhythm and energy bouncing around the room like it had a life of its own. The kids were amazing. They got into it, gave it their all, and filled the room with something really special. Some couldn’t use their arms the way we could so they found their own way to join in. That moment right there reminded us that inclusion isn’t about making everyone do the same thing; it’s about creating space where everyone can be themselves. It was one of those experiences that shifts something inside you. Being future healthcare and recreation professionals, we often learn about tools and techniques in theory. But this was different. This was hands-on, face-to-face, heart-to-heart. We got to see the impact of what we do. We saw how something as simple as music and movement can light up someone’s day. One of the students said after the session, “This gave me more reason to keep going. It reminded me why I chose this path.” That’s how deep it went. The Wilson Home team was incredible. They welcomed us like whānau and gave us the freedom to connect in our own way. Seeing the caregivers, therapists, and families smile alongside the kids meant everything. We felt the trust. We felt the support. And now we feel more determined than ever to keep learning and keep showing up. To everyone who helped make this happen…thank you. This was a gift. A gift we will forever be grateful for. Wilson Home has already invited us back. We’re ready. Because sometimes, making a difference starts with one beat. And once you feel that rhythm of connection, you carry it with you…forever.

  • A Full Circle Journey: A New Chapter in the Kauri DRT Whānau

    By Frenzy Ubando Walking through the doors of Kauri again—this time not as a student, but as a facilitator—was a deeply emotional experience for me. In 2021, I was just like many of the students I now teach: new to the country, full of questions, and holding tightly to a dream. I still remember the first time I nervously stepped into class, unsure of what the future held. Today, I return with confidence, purpose, and overwhelming gratitude. To those who are just getting to know me—students, industry partners, and our wider support network—my name is Frenzy Ubando, and I’m proud to join AJ and Rhea as part of the leadership guiding the Diversional and Recreational Therapy (DRT) and Community Health programme here at Kauri. As an alumna of this very course, I bring not just knowledge, but lived experience, empathy, and a heart for service. This past month, I had the privilege of visiting our students in their placements. Watching them engage with residents, navigate real-life care situations, and grow into their professional selves reminded me of my own placement days. The nerves, the excitement, and the learning curve—it all came rushing back. I was reminded, once again, why this work matters. Why we choose to walk with people through both joy and hardship. And why human connection lies at the centre of everything we do. Attending my first Kauri graduation as a staff member was incredibly moving. I stood on the other side of the stage this time, but I felt the same pride I once did when I got my certificate. Seeing our graduates walk up, filled with emotion and surrounded by whānau, filled my heart. I saw myself in them—and it made me even more determined to give my best in this role. What continues to inspire me is the resilience of our current students. Many juggle work, study, family, and life’s uncertainties, yet they show up with heart. They are the future of DRT in Aotearoa, and I am honoured to walk alongside them. To our partners, stakeholders, and colleagues in the industry: thank you for trusting Kauri. I want to assure you that as I step into this role, I carry not only the vision of our programme but also the legacy of excellence nurtured by AJ and Rhea, and all that have led before them. Together, we are committed to preparing DRT professionals who are compassionate, culturally aware, and ready to make a meaningful impact. To my past self, I would say: “Every moment of doubt was preparing you for this. Keep showing up. You belong here.” And to our students: I see you. I believe in you. And I am here—for every assessment, every placement visit, and every celebration. This isn’t just a programme. It’s a whānau. And I’m so proud to now help lead it forward.  This was a beautiful moment when we surprised our classmate Athina with a birthday celebration in class. Despite our busy schedules and the pressures of study, we always made time to celebrate one another and lift each other up. Athina, who is now also working as a Diversional Therapist, was genuinely touched. That moment reminded me just how much of a whānau we had become during our studies.    This is a special photo with our passionate and dedicated tutor, AJ, who played a huge role in shaping our learning journey. I remember this day clearly because we had just completed a major assessment, and my resource manual was selected as one of the top four in the class. It was such a proud moment for me, especially knowing the time, thought, and heart I had poured into it.     This was our very first Wednesday activity after months of being in lockdown. It felt amazing to finally be together again in person, to laugh, reconnect, and take part in the hands-on learning we had missed so much. The energy that day was unforgettable. After such a long period of online classes and isolation, this activity reminded us why we chose this path and how vital human connection is in our field.   This was the day I completed my five-month volunteering placement at CHT St. Margaret’s. Saying goodbye was emotional, but I left feeling proud of how much I had grown—not just as a student, but as a future Diversional and Recreational Therapist. The experience gave me real-world insight into the role and confirmed my passion for supporting the wellbeing of others through meaningful, person-centred engagement. Here are some photo highlights from our latest graduation !

  • We Remember the Bravery, We Value the Peace, We Celebrate the Freedom Anzac Commemoration 2025

    By the Kauri Academy Rōpū Waiata Team This ANZAC Day, a group of us from Kauri Academy – the Rōpū Waiata – had the honour of bringing a little bit of heart, hope, and harmony to three special places: Logan Campbell Apartments, the Logan Campbell Hospital Wing, and CHT St John’s. The purpose was clear. We weren’t there to put on a performance. We came to remember — but also, to reflect, connect, and celebrate freedom. Our programme was simple: a few waiata, some reflections, and a time to share space with our older whānau. But the impact felt much deeper. The message we brought — and the message we left with — was that ANZAC Day is not about glorifying war. It’s about honouring peace. We sang songs like Tūtira Mai Ngā Iwi , Pack Up Your Troubles, Amazing Grace, What a Wonderful World and more . We told stories, and we listened. We heard quiet voices recall what it was like to grow up during wartime. We felt the weight of silence where words couldn’t reach. And throughout it all, we kept coming back to one truth: compassion is stronger than conflict. As a group mostly made up of migrant students — many of us new to the Anzac tradition — this wasn’t just a performance. It was a learning experience. We came to understand that war begins when people are left out, when voices go unheard, and when difference becomes division. One resident at Logan Campbell said something we’ll carry for a long time: "They didn’t fight for medals or parades. They fought so that you could be here today — singing, smiling, connecting." And they were right. That’s what we came to do. We weren’t there to mourn war. We came to celebrate the results of courage — connection, dignity, and freedom. The kind of freedom that lets a group of young people from all around the world walk into a room of strangers and walk out as friends. So to the staff, residents, and all the hands that made this possible — thank you. Thank you for letting us in. Thank you for letting us sing. Thank you for showing us that remembrance isn’t just a moment — it’s a mindset. As we left the last site, someone in our group quietly said, “That felt like a full heart.” It really did. Lest we forget. And may we never stop learning what peace really looks like.

  • The Small Wonders That Make Us Whole

    By Kin Weng Ieong On March 18, 2025 , our class gathered for what was, on paper, a graduation and birthday lunch. But looking back now, it was so much more than that. Yes, we were celebrating the achievements of our graduating classmates. Yes, we were marking the birthdays of two of our well-loved teachers. But what stood out to me the most wasn’t the certificates or the speeches—it was the quiet details. The little things that often go unnoticed but mean everything. When we entered the room that day, it was like walking into a place that had been touched with care. Tables lined with white cloth, little handmade decorations placed thoughtfully, and food laid out with love—not just for show, not just for photos, but because that’s who we are. We are future Diversional and Recreational Therapists. We are people who create spaces where others feel safe, seen, and celebrated. That room was a living example of our purpose. Sir AJ opened the event with a Karakia—a traditional Māori prayer—which grounded us in a sense of spiritual unity. It wasn’t just a formality. It reminded us that what we do, and what we are becoming, is deeply rooted in connection. The CEO’s speech came next, full of pride and hope followed with heartfelt thanks and warm birthday wishes. The cakes were cut, the songs were sung, and there were so many smiles—but again, what stuck with me were the quiet moments in between. The way someone passed a plate to another with a smile, the effort people made to make sure everyone felt included, the joy in simple conversations over pizza and then some. Seeing our classmates walk up and receive their certificates was a proud moment for all of us. But it wasn’t just the milestone—it was the journey behind it. The early mornings, the nervous presentations, the group projects, the moments of self-doubt that turned into belief. That’s what we were really celebrating. I think sometimes we’re so focused on the big moments—the achievements, the recognition—that we forget it’s the small wonders that shape us. The time someone offered you a ride when it was raining. The classmate who encouraged you when you were ready to give up. The shared laughter after a long day. That’s what builds us. As a migrant student, these moments mean even more. Being far from home, it’s the little things that become your anchors. And on that day, surrounded by classmates and teachers who’ve become my second family, I realised that I wasn’t just learning how to be a DRT—I was already living it. Because Diversional and Recreational Therapy isn’t just a job. It’s a way of seeing the world. It’s the decision to care deeply, to create joy, and to make even ordinary moments feel extraordinary. And that day? It reminded me that we’re on the right path. Together.

  • Taking Flight Together: Celebrating Our Whānau with Gratitude and Joy

    By Dollie Domingo and Suman Lata Narayan As our DRT learning journey continues, we pause to reflect on two unforgettable culminating activities—events that reminded us of how far we’ve come and how much stronger we’ve grown together. These moments were more than just celebrations; they were expressions of gratitude for those taking flight into new beginnings and a chance to honour the shared aroha of our whānau. At Devonport Beach, we celebrated Waitangi Day with laughter, learning, and heartfelt goodbyes. This was a special day—not only because we honoured one of Aotearoa’s most important commemorations—but also because it marked the culminating activity for our beloved friend and classmate, the legendary - Jill. Surrounded by the sea breeze and sunshine, we played culturally inspired games, jumped with shouts of “Māui” and “Matau,” and ended with a meaningful activity—drawing admired people on leaves and reflecting on their qualities. Most of us drew our parents, a touching reminder of how much family means in shaping who we are. Our programme leader AJ who has more than 24 hours in his day with all the things that he do managed to pop in and blessed our 2 special people flying on, despite having another meeting across the bay, it was his way to make us feel we are very important. Yet, a bittersweet moment was shared too. We learned that Miss Rhea, a guiding light throughout our course, was stepping into a new leadership role. Though we will miss her presence in class, we celebrate her promotion with full hearts. Her wisdom, encouragement, and quiet strength will continue to echo in all we do. Just a few weeks later, on March 19th, we gathered at Jesus Is Lord Church in Henderson to celebrate International Happiness Day, led by our incredible facilitators: Shaine Allyzon Medina, Sumit Thapa, and Maheep Kaur Ahuja. This event marked their own culminating activity—a vibrant showcase of everything they’ve learned and the joy they now bring to others. The day was filled with energy, teamwork, and connection. We tackled a Math Relay without words, raced with cups and straws in a Cup Relay, floated balloons while swapping jackets, and built Cup Pyramids without using our fingers directly. Every challenge sparked laughter, creativity, and togetherness. We celebrated each win not as individuals, but as one united group. But the most moving moment came during the Letter of Happiness activity. Tasked with writing to one person who brought us joy, many of us couldn’t choose just one—we wrote to everyone. The room filled with smiles, tears, and gratitude as we read heartfelt words aloud. It reminded us that here, we’re more than classmates. We are whānau. To Jill, Shaine, Sumit, and Maheep—we honour your journey and the love you’ve poured into this space. To Miss Rhea, we celebrate your next chapter and thank you for lifting us with your leadership. And to our fellow students taking flight—may your wings carry you far, and may you always remember where your strength was formed. This is not just learning. This is legacy. This is not just community. This is whānau. And in whānau, we rise together.

  • A Family That Lifts Us Up - Reflections of Summer Wonderland 2024. By Binod Karki

    Looking back at the Summer Wonderland Year-End Party, I realize now that it was more than just a festive gathering. At the time, it felt like a celebration—an evening filled with laughter, music, and the warmth of a shared meal. But as I continue my journey as a Diversional and Recreational Therapist, I see it for what it truly was: a reminder of the strength we draw from one another, the support that keeps us going, and the deeper meaning behind the work we do. On December 3, 2024, the Northshore Support Group came together for a tropical-themed celebration that, in many ways, reflected the heart of DRT. The night wasn’t just about marking the end of the year; it was about honoring the connections we’ve built, the lessons we’ve learned, and the people who walk this path alongside us. I still remember the energy in the room when we arrived—bright decorations, lively music, and a sea of familiar faces, each with their own stories of triumphs and challenges from the past year. The evening started with a Waiata dance performance, led by fellow DRT students. At the time, I was caught up in the excitement of the moment, feeling proud of how we came together to showcase something so meaningful. But now, I see that it was more than just a performance; it was a representation of our unity, our shared purpose, and our connection to culture and community. Dinner that night was another moment of realization. It wasn’t just about the food (though it was amazing), but about the conversations around the table. We laughed, we shared memories, and we celebrated the small wins—those moments throughout the year when we made a difference in someone’s life. Even now, I hold onto those conversations, especially on the days when the work feels overwhelming. One of the highlights of the evening was welcoming the new Northshore Support Group leaders—Marissa, Deb, and Patrick. Seeing their passion and commitment reminded me why I chose this path in the first place. Their words about community, connection, and the power of recreation stayed with me, and I carry that inspiration forward in my own journey. As I reflect on that night, I realize that this group is more than just a community—it’s a family. A place where we lift each other up, where we celebrate together, and where we find the strength to keep going. DRT is not always easy, but knowing that we have a space to belong, to share, and to support one another makes all the difference. Even though Summer Wonderland was a Christmas event, its impact stretches far beyond one evening. It was a reminder that we are never alone in this journey. As I move forward, learning and growing in this field, I draw strength from that night—from the friendships, the shared purpose, and the unwavering support of this incredible group. To everyone who was there, thank you. And to those who continue to walk this path with me, let’s keep lifting each other up, finding joy in the small moments, and making a difference—together.

  • Inspired by Achievement: A New Year’s Reflection, By Darshpreet Singh

    As the new year begins, I find myself reflecting on a moment that truly inspired me—volunteering at last year’s graduation ceremony on November 13th. It was a day filled with celebration, joy, and a deep sense of accomplishment as I watched my seniors receive their certificates. Standing among the faculty, graduates, and their families, I felt something shift within me. Their achievements were not just their own; they became a source of motivation for all of us who are still on this journey. Helping set up the event, arranging chairs, decorating the venue, and guiding guests may have seemed like small tasks, but they allowed me to witness firsthand what success looks like. I saw how years of hard work and dedication paid off, and it made me think about my own goals. Each graduate walking across that stage was proof that perseverance leads to accomplishment. Beyond just the celebration, I saw the power of community and support. Every cheer from the audience, every congratulatory handshake, and every proud tear shed by families showed that success is rarely achieved alone. It reinforced my belief that the relationships we build and the encouragement we receive along the way make the journey even more meaningful. This experience reinforced why I chose to pursue diversional and recreational therapy. Seeing how an event could bring people together, create lasting memories, and celebrate personal milestones reminded me of the impact we can have in this field. It’s about more than just activities—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that uplift others. As I step into this year, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose. I want to work hard, grow in my skills, and one day, stand where my seniors stood—with my own certificate in hand, ready to make a difference. Their journey has set a path, and now, it’s my turn to follow it.

  • Reflecting on Christmas Carols: Lessons to Carry Into 2025 - By: Patrick Zeiszen Guanlao

    The holiday season may be behind us, but the memories of our Christmas caroling are here to stay—and the lessons we learned? Those will guide us through 2025 and beyond. Last December, our class at Kauri Academy embarked on a festive caroling journey that took us to Awanui Resthome, the AKA Campus, and Fairview Care in Albany. It wasn’t just about singing holiday tunes; it was about spreading joy, creating connections, and learning what it truly means to make an impact as future diversional and recreational therapists. We kicked things off at Awanui Resthome in Mt. Wellington with a lively dance to   “All I Want for Christmas”  by Mariah Carey. The room was filled with laughter, clapping, and even a few dance moves from the residents. From there, we sang classics like  Jingle Bell Rock  and  Feliz Navidad , ending with a heartfelt  “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” . Next up was our own AKA Campus in Auckland CBD, where we brought the same energy to our peers and faculty. It was amazing to see how music could unite a group of people from different cultures and walks of life. Finally, we made our way to Fairview Care in Albany, where we added a little something extra—a short chair yoga session before our performance. The residents loved it, and we could see how much they appreciated the care and thought we put into making the event special. Throughout these stops, we sprinkled in surprise performances and smaller events here and there, always focusing on the joy of connection. If there’s one thing our caroling adventure taught us, it’s that the smallest actions can have the biggest impact. Whether it’s a smile, a song, or just showing up, these moments of connection matter more than we often realize. This is the heart of what we do as diversional and recreational therapists: creating spaces where people feel valued, included, and uplifted. The caroling reminded us that while some of us may not have the best singing voices (I’ll own up to it!), it’s the effort, the enthusiasm, and the shared experience that count. As we step into 2025, I’m holding onto the lesson that connection is everything. We’re not just a class; we’re a family, and that bond makes us stronger, more compassionate, and more prepared to make a difference in the world. Let’s keep the spirit of Christmas alive all year—creating joy, embracing imperfection, and always leading with kindness. To my classmates and to everyone reading: Happy New Year! May 2025 be filled with harmony, laughter, and meaningful connections.  “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata.” What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people. Check out our carolling reel - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDIJzreT-Sv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

  • A Day to Remember - The Dementia without Loneliness Movie. By: Darshpreet Singh

    Last month, my classmates and I from Kauri Academy had one of those days that sticks with you forever. We got to spend a day at Selwyn Village , and honestly, it was eye-opening in more ways than one. At first, I thought it was just another film to watch, but it turned out to be so much more. The film didn’t just tell a story; it pulled us into the lives of those living with dementia, making us feel their struggles and triumphs in a way textbooks never could. But the real magic happened when Michael Verde, the producer of the film, joined us. Having him there was like adding the perfect seasoning to an already amazing dish. After the credits rolled, Michael stood up and shared his insights on dementia care. His words were powerful—he talked about empathy, patience, and truly understanding the people we aim to help. It wasn’t just theory; he gave us real, practical ways to make a difference. The Q&A session that followed was awesome. My friends and I were buzzing with questions, eager to learn more. Michael answered each one with such clarity and passion that it felt like he was speaking directly to us, encouraging us to take what we learned and apply it in our future careers. Amidst all the learning, we also got to celebrate something special—Orquidea, our NZSDRT Inc . President, was turning a year older. Sharing flowers and smiles with everyone there was a beautiful reminder of how important community is, especially in the field of diversional therapy. Seeing everyone come together to honor Orquidea made the day feel even more meaningful. Walking away from Selwyn Village, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. Not only did I gain valuable knowledge, but I also connected with amazing people who are passionate about making a difference. I’m so thankful to have experienced this with my peers. It’s days like these that fuel my passion for becoming a diversional therapist and reinforce the importance of compassion and connection in everything we do. Here’s to many more unforgettable moments on this journey!

  • Grandparents Day Celebration: Connection, Laughter, and Family! By:  Patrick Zeiszen Guanlao

    Our Grandparents Day celebration, held on October 16, 2024, at the Athol Syms Community Center, turned out to be an unforgettable experience! Organized by our wonderful classmates, Chadani and Ritika, it wasn’t just about activities—it was about honoring the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, and yes, it was a lot of fun. To kick things off, we set up chairs, did our morning routine, and sang the national anthem and waiatas together. With Grandparents Day as the theme, our leaders, Chadani and Ritika, shared stories about their own grandparents. The day got emotional when Chadani, reflecting on her memories, teared up while talking about her grandparents. It was a touching reminder of why this celebration matters. The activities began with a game that tested our reaction skills and sense of fun. We split into two groups, and a hoop was placed in the middle. When the leaders called “in,” we’d jump into the hoop, and for “out,” we’d jump out. But they switched it up mid-game, so suddenly “in” meant “out” and vice versa! You can imagine the chaos and laughter as we all tried to keep up! Next, we took on the "Toilet Paper Challenge." Tables were set up with a glass of water at one end and a roll of toilet paper at the other. Our task? To pull the glass across the table using only the toilet paper. If it got wet or the glass spilled, we had to start over. It was a race against the odds—and the limits of soggy paper. It wasn’t easy, but that made it even more fun! Our third activity was a word puzzle with a twist. Each group got a list of phrases with hidden animal names tucked inside. For example, the phrase “She came late every day” has a hidden “camel” in it. Some of the phrases even had two answers, and finding them was a fun mix of focus and teamwork. Finally, we wrapped up with a question bowl filled with prompts about our grandparents. My question was, “Did you ever give a gift to your grandparents?” My answer? “No gifts, just love.” This part of the day gave everyone a chance to reflect on our own grandparents and share stories that made us smile, laugh, or feel a little nostalgic. After the activities, we had a shared lunch, and while some of us went to pick up the food, others got things ready back at the center. The day ended with a heartfelt speech from Aj and Rhea, who congratulated Chadani and Ritika on completing their course. Both of them gave their own speeches too, sharing their passion for DRT and their excitement to continue spreading joy through their work. A huge congratulations to Chadani and Ritika on their success! We’re all so proud of you and can’t wait to see the joy you’ll bring to others through your work. Here’s to many more days of connection, laughter, and memories—just like Grandparents Day!

  • DRT Week 2024: A Celebration of Connection, Creativity, and Community By Binod Karki

    What’s so special about DRT Week, you ask? Well, it’s more than just another event on the calendar—it’s part of the National Society’s push to raise awareness about the vital work we do in Diversional and Recreational Therapy (DRT). This celebration showcases how DRT enhances lives, turning simple activities into moments of joy and meaningful connection. This year, during DRT Week 2024, we at Kauri Academy were proud to take part in this national effort. On September 24 and 25, we visited Northbridge Lifecare Trust, Rawhiti Estate, and St Andrews Village, bringing a little extra sunshine to these communities. The week was a chance not just to practice what we’ve learned but to remind ourselves why we chose this field—to enrich lives through creativity, movement, and shared experiences. We kicked things off with cardio drumming, and let me tell you, it was an instant mood lifter! The energy in the room was electric as residents tapped and clapped along with us, smiles lighting up their faces. It was incredible to see people who may have been quiet or hesitant start to engage, finding joy in the simple beat of the drum. This set the stage perfectly for dance therapy, which followed. Residents shared their favorite moves, some tapping into old memories that sparked lively conversations and laughter. It wasn’t just exercise; it was a bridge that brought us closer together, blurring the line between student and resident, performer and participant. Aromatherapy was another highlight. We introduced scents like peppermint, lavender, and frankincense, each carefully chosen to evoke calm and happy memories. The response was heartwarming as stories and smiles spread through the room. It was proof that DRT isn’t just about movement—it’s about engaging all the senses to create a holistic experience that uplifts and connects. To cap off our sessions, we ventured into creative art therapy. The final products – simple paper hearts; were more than just crafts; they were tokens of a day well spent, memories captured in a tangible way that they could keep or gift to someone they care about. One of the most touching parts of DRT Week was seeing our tutors, AJ and Rhea, take a moment to honor the hardworking Diversional Therapists at each facility. Presenting them with certificates of appreciation underscored how essential their work is and why national initiatives like DRT Week matter so much. It was a moment of recognition and a reminder that this field is about teamwork and shared dedication. DRT Week 2024 was more than just activities and fun; it was a celebration of the year’s efforts and achievements in spreading awareness about DRT’s role in enhancing quality of life. For us students, it was a chance to experience firsthand how our future careers can change lives. It reinforced the importance of what we do and inspired us to continue learning, growing, and sharing the joy of DRT wherever we go.

  • Exploring Aromatherapy and Soap Making Workshop in the Classroom: A Fun and Educational Experience : By Harman Kaur

    Imagine a classroom filled with the soothing scents of lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus. At Kauri Academy, we found a unique and fascinating way to combine learning, creativity, and well-being by introducing aromatherapy and soap-making workshops into our Diversional and Recreational Therapy program. These hands-on activities not only teach the fundamentals of chemistry but also connect students to the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. In the field of Diversional and Recreational Therapy, it's essential to fill not just the cups of others but also our own. To achieve this, we regularly host engaging activity sessions. Our recent session led by Rhea was an absolute hit! On a beautiful Tuesday morning, Rhea kicked off the workshop with an insightful presentation on the importance of essential oils. She introduced us to a variety of fragrances, and soon, our classroom was filled with delightful and soothing scents. Excitement buzzed in the air as Rhea explained how to make soaps using these essential oils. Armed with all the necessary resources, she ensured the workshop would be memorable. We received printed guides detailing the benefits of essential oils and tips on blending them effectively. The class was then divided into five groups of three, and with great care and hygiene, we embarked on our soap-making journey. We started by cutting the soap base and melting it in the microwave. Each group selected their preferred base colors, mixed them with alcohol, and added drops of essential oils to create unique blends. Using shape trays, we poured our mixtures, sprayed them with alcohol to avoid bubbles, and let them set. Some students even added dried petals and eco-friendly loofah to make their soaps more attractive. The process of making aromatherapy soap was not only educational but also incredibly fun. The anticipation grew as we waited for the soaps to solidify. Some of my classmates even put their creations in the fridge to speed up the process. Finally, the moment arrived, and we held our beautiful, personalized soaps in our hands. The creativity and care put into each soap were evident, reflected in the smiles and pride on our faces. We exchanged our soaps as keepsakes, creating beautiful memories of this enriching experience. A big shoutout to Rhea and AJ for organizing such an amazing workshop. Their careful planning and passion turned our classroom into an awesome learning environment where science and creativity always come to life through the art of aromatherapy soap making and more. Making aromatherapy soap is a rewarding and therapeutic hobby, allowing you to create personalized skincare products tailored to your preferences. By carefully selecting your ingredients and following safety guidelines, you can craft beautiful, fragrant soaps that offer both cleansing and aromatherapy benefits. Happy soap making! Check out the reels from our workshop! 🌟 https://www.instagram.com/reel/C69rcO6SCCB/?igsh=a3Q3eng5anJ6NXlo

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Auckland Campus

Level 6 & 7,

3 City Road,

Auckland City - 1010

New Zealand

 

PO Box 8540. Newmarket,

Auckland 1149

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