“Grief, Holidays and Sensory Memories

“The pain of grief is both a reminder of the depth of our love and an acknowledgment of its power, even in the face of loss.”

– Unknown

Certain smells associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas can trigger grief, particularly for people who have lost loved ones or are navigating other forms of emotional pain. Smell is closely linked to memory and emotion, due to how the brain processes scents.

Scents such as roasted turkey, apple pie, cinnamon, or pine may remind someone of past holidays shared with family members who are no longer present, and may subsequently trigger grief.  These sensory triggers can sometimes catch people off guard, making it important to acknowledge the emotional significance of smells when grieving during the holidays.

In order to plan ahead, think about what might trigger your grief and plan accordingly. Consider making different recipes or celebrating in new locations to avoid strong emotional associations. Give yourself permission to change your plans if needed, and discussing any anxiousness you may be feeling with a counselor or friend prior to the event can help. Remember, it is normal to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed, so be gentle with yourself and acknowledge your emotions. 

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” -Lao Tzu

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