Things that have personal, symbolic meaning in our lives are often objects that represent our identity, history, memories, and desires. They will vary from person to person, depending on their culture, beliefs, experiences, and preferences. These are some examples of symbols and meanings, but you may have a completely different list because of your unique perspective, culture, and history:

- A rose flower – symbol of love, passion, and beauty

- The oak tree – symbol of strength, dependability, and sturdiness

- The griffin – symbol of strength, nobility, and truthfulness

- The eagle – symbol of strength, immortality, and vision

- The peacock – symbol of beauty and confidence

- Fire – symbol of danger, destruction, or cleansing

- The butterfly – symbol of transformation and change

- The dove – symbol of peace, tranquility, and grace

- The raven – symbol of death and doom
 

Which symbols have significance to you and why? If you include symbolic objects that you associate with self-care, they can have a meaningful effect on thoughts and mood.  

I looked at the basket that my grandmother had given me before she passed away. It was filled with things that had personal symbolic meaning for both of us. There was a rose flower that reminded me of her love and beauty, an oak leaf that symbolized her strength and dependability, a griffin pendant that represented her nobility and truthfulness, and a butterfly pin that signified her transformation and change. She had taught me the meaning of these symbols and how they could inspire me to live a fulfilling life. I felt a surge of gratitude and emotion as I held the basket close to my heart.