I can relate. I was once upgraded to first class on an airplane, and suddenly found myself so unexpectedly comforted by my warm nuts and the gentle kindness of the flight attendant that I became overwhelmed and had to put the blanket over my head and weep silently for a few minutes.

The need for comfort, or emotional safety, or whatever you want to call it, is one of those things that just sneaks up on you and expresses itself in the weirdest ways.

Sorry you're dealing with this. I think your ideas for self-care are good ones.