The present invention relates to a sensory device for reducing tension in a subject. The device includes an elastic covering, a filling material inside the elastic covering, an openable sealed reservoir located within the filling, an absorbent material surrounding the reservoir, and a calming odor releasing substance sealed within the reservoir. The present invention also relates to a method of reducing tension in a subject. This method involves providing a subject in need of tension relief with the device of the present invention. The device is manipulated to break open the reservoir and release the calming odor releasing substance. The released calming odor is inhaled in an amount sufficient to lower salivary cortisol levels in the subject and thereby reduce tension in the subject.
