When someone we love passes away, we naturally hold on to what they leave behind—photographs, clothes, small personal items. These objects feel like threads that keep us connected. But not everything we save carries comfort. Some belongings can hold emotional weight that keeps us stuck instead of helping us heal.Across many cultures—from Mexico to the United States—people talk about the “energy” attached to personal items of the deceased. Whether you see this spiritually or psychologically, the idea is similar: strong emotional imprints can linger. If we’re not mindful, these objects can affect our mood, our home atmosphere, and even our ability to move forward.

Here are four types of items many believe are better released than kept—offered not as superstition, but as an invitation to reflect on how objects influence our emotional space.It may feel uncomfortable to think about, but undergarments and deeply personal clothing are often considered highly charged items. They were in close contact with the person’s body and daily life.Some traditions suggest that holding on to them can keep emotional energy stagnant in the home, potentially affecting harmony and well-being.Take a quiet moment of gratitude for the life you shared. Then dispose of them respectfully. Some people choose to wrap them in cloth before discarding them. If appropriate and in good condition, donating them is another option—but keeping them as keepsakes is usually discouraged.