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Since many funeral home directors include scattering services in their funeral packages, it brings up ideas that many traditional-minded families may not have yet considered. However this is a time that decision making can be difficult and seem overwhelming, and given that the ceremony is one that is ingrained in one's memory, the choice is important because it is often the only opportunity that you will have to honor the loved one and the life that you shared together.
When choosing ash scattering as the method of cherishing the memory of the person, it is important to take into consideration particular areas that my hold a great significance to the one that has passed on. This is a particularly meaningful part of the grieving process, because it allows the observing family to have a visual image embedded in their memory of them 'resting' in a place that they cherished and spent much of their life surrounded by. Some people prefer to photograph or video tape the ashes being scattered over this place as a constant reminder that they will be surrounded by an area that they loved.
Even for those that choose scattering as a method of dispersing ashes, many families still like to have a small portion of the ashes or a lock of hair incorporated into a small memorial such as a piece of cremation jewelry or keepsake urn. Others prefer creating a memorial that may include a memorial stepping stone, memorial garden plaque, or a statuary or garden memorial sculpture to honor their loved one. Garden stones and garden benches can also be used indoors or out, and all create loving touches in your sacred space. Whatever your decision, this is a personal choice that is meant to honor and represent your passed loved one as well as heal, restore, and remember the time and life that your loved one spent on Earth.
There are many ways that scattering methods can be used to create a personalized ceremony. The following paragraphs will explain the different methods that can be considered to honor your loved one and create lasting memories.
The first and most common method of scattering ashes is known as 'casting' which involves tossing the ashes into the wind. One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing casting is the direction of the wind. Ashes should always be cast down-wind to prevent it from blowing back toward the group. Since ashes are comprised of broken-down bone material, the sand has a very dense consistency that will fall quickly to the ground. However, some of it will be a fine powder that forms a whitish-gray cloud when it becomes airborne. The method of casting varies and can be done by either one person, or as a group, where each person takes turns scattering the remains. Other people prefer having the ashes released all at once in the form of a toast-like gesture using casting cups or even simply paper cups.
Another method of dispersing the remains is with 'trenching' which involves digging a shallow trench or groove in the soil where the ashes are then placed. This can be a very personalized form of scattering the ashes because the person's name can be drawn into the soil and surrounded with a heart shaped trench. Candles can even surround the trench to create a spiritual ambiance and later be used as a keepsake for those that attend. At the end of the ceremony, the participants can either rake over the remains in the trench (called 'raking') or have the water from the sea or ocean sweep the remains out into the water while family and friends join hands and remember the individual's life.
With trenching, raking, or ringing, it is imperative to pour the ashes from the scattering urn close to the ground to prevent the ashes from being blown throughout the air too soon. 'Ringing' involves forming a 'ring' on the ground or around an object such as a tree, a circle of candles, or even a memorial table. Then the people attending the ceremony form an outer ring, and each person is able to step into the 'ring' and share memories that honor the life spent with the loved one.
Green burials are another form of dispersing of the cremated remains that are gaining in popularity as people are becoming more environmentally conscious. Since protecting the environment has become an increasing concern for many, biodegradable cremation urns are able to offer the solution that many people are looking for. In addition, some cemeteries do not require an urn. In this circumstance, a green burial can simply mean that a hole is dug into the soil and the ashes are placed in the ground and are covered without the use of an urn. 'Green' urns offer a secure and dignified method of scattering cremated remains while remaining environmentally friendly.
Sea or water burials are also of increasing popularity. With sea/water burials it is essential to use a biodegradable cremation urn to ensure that the creatures of the water do not experience disruption in their natural habitat and that the sea, ocean, or lake does not get overcrowded in the same way that the ground has become overly used in traditional burials. Biodegradable cremation urns are designed float for a few minutes, and then descend into the water where the ashes will later be dispersed once the cremation urn degrades. Although some people like the idea of dispersing ashes directly into the water, this can often result in a few problems including ashes blowing back onto the boat or clinging to the side of the boat which can ruin the memorialization experience. However, floral petals are often a nice way to show final tribute as the biodegradable urn drifts away and descends into the water.
The final method of scattering ashes is in the air which is usually done by professional pilots and air services that are designed to handle and disperse cremated remains. For the ceremony, people can usually see the dispersion of ashes from the ground. However, some aerial scattering companies allow up to 20 people to ride along in the plane for an additional fee. In the event that this is not permitted, many professionals will provide a certificate showing the place, date, and time of the aerial scattering along with a photograph.
Dispersing of cremated remains comes with a variety of regulations that vary by location, even within one city and typically requires a permit from the local health department as well as permission from the location where you are planning on scattering the ashes. Scattering cremated remains, like any other method of saying your final good-byes, is emotionally very difficult. However, by being knowledgeable about the available options makes the process a little easier, and establishing a permanent memorial for survivors to pay tribute to the departed often helps in the mourning process, and enables people a place to heal and remember their loved one for years to come.
