Suitcase of Peace
Topic: Mental health
Emotional Intensity: MEDIUM
Format: Supporting exercise
Relation to Core: Supporting variation of the core exercise “My Inner World Where I Find Peace” (Art-based narrative exercise for soft agency & self-regulation)
Source / Author: Inspired by narrative, metaphor-based, and art-informed self-regulation practices
Topic
Mental health
Also relevant for
Self-regulation, Stress management, Transitions, Exam & Interview Preparation, Emotional Safety
Objective (learning focus)
To help participants identify and mentally “pack” personal emotional and symbolic resources they can consciously return to during stressful school, work, or transition moments.
Target group
Youth (14–18) / Young adults (18–35)
Group size
6–25 participants
Timing
45–75 minutes
Materials Needed
A4 paper (or pre-printed suitcase / backpack template)
Markers, colored pencils, crayons
Pens
Optional magazines, scissors, glue (for collage)
Optional calm background music (only with group consent)
Step-by-step guide:
1. Framing the Exercise (5–10 min)
Facilitator introduction:
“Imagine you are about to enter a new or stressful situation — a new school, a job interview, an exam, or a difficult day at work. You can’t control everything around you, but you can choose what you carry inside with you.”
Prompt gentle imagination:
What helps you feel calmer?
What reminds you who you are?
What supports you when things feel overwhelming?
Emphasize:
This suitcase is symbolic, not practical. It’s about inner resources, not objects you need to own.
2. Creative Activity — “Suitcase of Peace” (25–35 min)
Instructions:
“Draw an open suitcase, backpack, or bag.
Inside it, place symbols, images, words, or colors that represent what helps you:
– stay calm
– remember who you are
– stay focused or hopeful
There is no right or wrong content.”
Possible examples (offer only if needed):
A photo of a loved one
A song lyric or word
A tree, stone, or light
A quote, prayer, or affirmation
A symbol from your culture or personal story
Participants may draw, collage, or mix words and images.
3. Optional Writing Reflection (5–10 min)
Invite participants to answer one or two:
Which item in your suitcase feels most important right now?
When would you like to “open” this suitcase?
What does this suitcase help you remember about yourself?
4. Sharing & Meaning-Making (10–20 min)
Sharing formats (choose one):
Pairs
Small groups (3–4)
Silent gallery walk
Suggested prompts:
What’s one item you want to keep close?
How does it support you in school or work situations?
How could you use this image before a stressful moment?
Facilitator reminder:
Participants explain their own meaning — others do not interpret.
5. Closing & De-roling (5–10 min)
Gentle return to the present:
“Take one look at your suitcase.
Choose one thing from it you can take with you today.”
Optional grounding:
Name one thing you see, hear, or feel in the room
Stretch arms or feet gently
Optional future bridge:
“What could help you feel even 5% more calm tomorrow?”
Expected outcomes (for participants)
– Increased sense of emotional preparedness
– Greater awareness of personal coping resources
– A visual metaphor for self-regulation
– Reduced anxiety before school or work-related challenges
Trauma-informed note
– Focus on present and future resources, not past trauma
– Allow participants to choose emotional depth
– Normalize small, ordinary sources of calm
– Include a clear de-roling / grounding moment
Adaptation (context / intercultural / age)
– Works well across cultures and literacy levels
– Can be shortened for classroom settings
– Suitable for exam preparation or employment programs
– Templates help younger participants or those feeling stuck
Recommendations for facilitators
– Emphasize choice, control, and self-care
– Avoid “why” questions; use “how / what it gives”
– Ask consent before using music
– Reinforce that the suitcase can change over time