Who hasn’t kept a jacket, a piece of jewelry, or a letter from a deceased loved one, simply because they can’t bear to part with it? We tell ourselves that these objects comfort us, that they bring back memories… But what if, on the contrary, they were fostering a deep sadness, hindering our healing? Here’s why sorting through the belongings of a deceased person can be a profoundly calming decision. The invisible trap of material memories During bereavement, it’s common to want to cling to what remains: clothes still imbued with a familiar scent, photos, everyday objects. We keep them “just in case,” thinking they’ll help us cope. In reality, these objects can freeze the connection to the past and hinder emotional healing. From a psychological perspective, clinging to a loved one’s belongings at all costs can block the natural grieving process. It creates a kind of “time bubble,” where acceptance of the loss is unconsciously delayed. Yet, even if this path takes time, it is necessary to regain inner peace. Making room to welcome what comes next

Who hasn’t kept a jacket, a piece of jewelry, or a letter from a deceased loved one, simply because they can’t bear to part with it? We tell ourselves that these objects comfort us, that they bring back memories… But what if, on the contrary, they were fostering a deep sadness, hindering our healing? Here’s why sorting through the belongings of a deceased person can be a profoundly calming decision.
The invisible trap of material memories

During bereavement, it’s common to want to cling to what remains: clothes still imbued with a familiar scent, photos, everyday objects. We keep them “just in case,” thinking they’ll help us cope. In reality, these objects can freeze the connection to the past and hinder emotional healing.

From a psychological perspective, clinging to a loved one’s belongings at all costs can block the natural grieving process. It creates a kind of “time bubble,” where acceptance of the loss is unconsciously delayed. Yet, even if this path takes time, it is necessary to regain inner peace.

Making room to welcome what comes next