Sometimes, there’s a moment that makes you stop and wonder. Maybe it’s a familiar scent out of nowhere, a song that plays at just the right time, or a sudden feeling that someone is right there with you. These little things can mean more than just coincidence. Many believe they are signs from the other side, gentle reminders that loved ones who have passed on are still near.
Losing someone never truly means losing the connection. While they may not be physically here, they find ways to make their presence known. Some signs are subtle, while others feel impossible to ignore. You don’t have to search for them—these moments tend to happen when you least expect them.
If you’ve ever felt like someone was trying to reach out from beyond, you might not be imagining it. Here are 11 common signs from the other side that a loved one may be close.
1. Dreams That Feel Too Real
Some dreams don’t feel like dreams at all. They seem more like a visit—clear, vivid, and full of meaning. A loved one might appear just as you remember them, offering a comforting smile or saying something that stays with you long after waking up. These dreams often bring peace, unlike regular ones that fade quickly. Many people say they wake up feeling like their loved one was truly there.
Keeping a notebook by your bed can help you remember these moments. Writing down what you saw or heard might reveal a pattern over time. If you ever wake up with a strong sense that someone was near, it could be one of the signs from the other side.
2. A Familiar Scent in the Air
A sudden whiff of perfume, fresh coffee, or even pipe smoke when no one is around can be more than just nostalgia. Scent is closely tied to memory, and many believe loved ones use it to remind us they’re still present. The smell usually appears unexpectedly, often when thinking about them or during a quiet moment.
Some people say they catch the scent of their grandmother’s favorite flowers or the aftershave their father used. If a familiar smell drifts by with no clear source, take a second to acknowledge it. It may be a simple, loving hello.
3. Songs That Play at the Right Moment
Music has a way of bringing back emotions and memories. Sometimes, a special song plays at just the right time—on the radio, in a store, or even in a shuffled playlist. Maybe it was their favorite song, or one connected to a meaningful memory.
Hearing a song that reminds you of someone right when you need it could be more than coincidence. Some believe this is one of the signs from the other side, a way for loved ones to send a message of comfort and love.
4. Lights and Electronics Acting Strange
Lights flickering without reason, a phone turning on by itself, or a TV switching channels unexpectedly—these small disturbances often happen when a loved one is nearby. Electrical energy is easy to manipulate, and many believe spirits use it to get our attention.
Some people notice a specific lamp flickering or their radio turning on when they’re missing someone. If this happens right after thinking about a loved one, it could be their way of saying, “I’m here.”
5. Unexpected Visits from Animals
Butterflies, cardinals, dragonflies, and even certain insects seem to appear at meaningful moments. Many believe these creatures act as messengers, carrying love from those who have passed. A cardinal landing near you or a butterfly lingering longer than usual can feel like a direct sign.
These visits tend to happen when you’re deep in thought or going through a tough time. If an animal seems unusually close or appears when you’re thinking about someone, it could be one of the signs from the other side.
6. Finding Coins in Odd Places
A penny on the sidewalk. A dime near your bed. Some say these small objects are left as reminders from loved ones who have passed. The phrase “pennies from heaven” exists for a reason—many people believe spirits place them in our path as a way to say, “I’m still with you.”
These coins often show up at just the right time—after asking for a sign, during an emotional moment, or on a special date. Whether it’s superstition or something more, the feeling of connection is real.
7. Sudden Changes in Temperature
A sudden chill or a wave of warmth that has no explanation might be a sign that someone is near. Many believe spirits can shift energy around them, causing noticeable temperature changes.
If you’ve ever felt a cold spot in a warm room or a sudden warmth when thinking about someone, take a moment to consider it. It could be one of the signs from the other side, letting you know you’re not alone.
8. Objects Moving or Disappearing
Keys vanish and reappear in strange places. A picture frame falls for no reason. Small objects shifting without explanation are common experiences for people who believe their loved ones are still close.
These little moments don’t usually feel scary—just puzzling. If something keeps moving around, especially something connected to a loved one, it may be their playful way of getting your attention.
9. Feeling a Gentle Touch
A soft pressure on your shoulder, a slight brush against your hand—these sensations can feel startling at first, but many find them comforting. People often describe these touches as light and warm, not frightening.
Some believe these moments happen when someone from the other side wants to reassure you. If you’ve ever felt a gentle touch with no clear cause, it could be one of the signs from the other side, reminding you that love doesn’t fade.
10. Seeing Something Out of the Corner of Your Eye
A shadow moves past, but when you look, no one is there. Many people report seeing glimpses of someone they love—a familiar shape, a figure standing in the distance, or even a reflection that disappears too quickly.
These moments are brief but meaningful. If you keep catching something just out of view, it may be a loved one letting you know they’re still close.
11. Hearing a Voice When No One Is Around
Hearing someone say your name, a familiar greeting, or a soft whisper can be a powerful experience. Some hear it out loud, while others say it comes as a thought that feels separate from their own.
These messages often come when you’re deep in thought or feeling emotional. If a voice speaks just when you need comfort, it could be one of the signs from the other side, letting you know someone is watching over you.
Conclusion
Sometimes, the smallest moments carry the deepest meaning. A familiar song playing, a sudden scent in the air, or a flickering light might not be random at all. These could be signs from the other side, quiet reminders that loved ones are still close.
Grief never truly goes away, but knowing that connection isn’t lost can bring a sense of peace. If you’ve ever experienced one of these signs, take a second to acknowledge it. A simple thought, a smile, or even saying “I know you’re here” can be enough.
Everyone’s experience is different. Some feel a presence, while others notice signs in unexpected ways. If you’ve ever had a moment that made you stop and wonder, you’re not alone. What was it for you? Sharing your story might help someone else recognize their own signs from the other side and find comfort in knowing love never fades.