How to Discern Between Spirit Guides, Ancestors & Deceased Loved Ones

Ever had a moment when you sense something just out of sight or at the very edge of your perception? It might be a scent, a song, a sound, or even a thought that feels like it didn’t come from you. Some people feel a sense of comfort, while others sense another presence.

The question that follows is almost always the same: Who’s there?

Depending on the person (you), that presence could be a spirit guide, an ancestor, or a deceased loved one. However, learning how to tell the difference isn’t as simple as you might think.

Spirit Guides

Spirit guides are like the mentors in your spiritual ecosystem. They’re not usually people you’ve known in this lifetime. Their connection to you isn’t bound by family or history. Their role is to help you evolve, to nudge you toward growth.

You’ll recognize a spirit guide by how the experience feels (usually calm and expansive). A guide won’t guilt or frighten you; they’ll challenge you, yes, but always with gentleness. Their messages tend to arrive as insights that suddenly make sense (what some call “downloads”).

Ancestors

Your ancestors walk with you differently. They’re tied right into your DNA. You’ll see it in your habits and even your strengths. These kinds of interaction are usually marked by a feeling of familiarity.

Ancestral presence is often sensory. You might smell your grandmother’s perfume or feel drawn to an old family recipe. These aren’t coincidences. They’re echoes of a lineage reminding you that you’re part of something continuous.

Deceased Loved Ones

Loved ones who’ve already passed feel different when they reach out. It’s usually very personal. When they visit, it’s almost always to comfort or remind you that love doesn’t end.

You’ll know a loved one by how the message touches your heart. Maybe you see their favorite bird when you’re missing them most. Maybe a song plays at just the right moment.

Listening With All of You

Discernment happens through the body, the heart, and the mind. The more you listen without any expectations about what you’ll find, the more distinct these presences become.

Ask yourself:

• Does this message feel like love or fear?
• Is it helping me move forward or pulling me backward?
• Do I feel expanded or contracted when I receive it?

Pay attention when you sense something just outside your perception. Sit with the feeling without putting any kind of expectations on it. Over time, you’ll start to recognize the signatures of guides, ancestors, and your loved ones. If you want to book your reading, contact Mel Doerr today!