In interviewing folks for my book on spirituality and the workplace, I found that most people inevitably had a collection of objects at work (or in the car) that comforted them.

I think most of us do this unintentionally—we collect reminders of good times (postcards, family photos), objects that make us smell good (lotions and essential oils), and often childhood toys. All of these combine to give a signal to our brain that it’s okay to relax at work.

Cheryl Rainfield in Portable Comfort has more ideas:

A comfort bag might contain:

some natural hand cream, facial lotion, or oil that has a smell that makes you feel good;
a pen and paper to write with (so you can write out what’s upsetting you, or write out things that make you feel good);
a stone to hold and look into;
a card from someone you love;
a music player and music that calms you;
a book that makes you feel good;
some small toys that make you smile, or help you feel loved or strong;
a small pewter object or worry stone;
something to fiddle with or hold in your hands–a worry stone, a wire toy, a squishy ball, etc.
a vial of essential oil that is calming (lavender, chamomile, rose), that makes you feel good, or that just smells good to you;
a small stuffie–or even a big one;
a comfort book (mentioned later in this article);
and any of the things mentioned in this article, or anything small that makes you feel good.

How to Put Together a Comfort Baghas more tips too.

What do you keep away from home that comforts you?

Here are some flip cards that I look at.