Different Ways to approach the Scattering of Ashes

We need to have a memorable and meaningful way to deal with the ashes after the funeral of a loved one. The scattering of ashes is among the most popular as opposed to the more traditional form of burial. Since ashes can be easily stored and also spread or distributed, virtually any place that has meaning to the deceased is a good place to scatter the ashes.

However, it is not always that easy to simply go on with spreading ashes. Because depending on the state or the country that you are in, there are certain laws to be followed when it comes to the disposal of the ashes. Yet there are five main methods of scattering ashes.

Burial : The ashes are stored in an urn, some people say that it should be biodegradable, but any urn would suffice. Make sure that it will be buried deep enough so that not even dogs can accidentally dig it out. This is important especially if the location is not a normal burial site and simply a place that had a special part in the decease’s life.

Trenching:This is achieved by digging a small and narrow trench on the beach, preferably along the line where the high tide waters will eventually wash everything away. The ashes are then poured into the trench and then covered with sand. When high tide comes in, the sea water will wash the trench away including the ashes.
The trench can be made into different meaningful shapes or even words. Some people shape the trench into a heart or form the name of the deceased.

Casting:This is when the ashes are scattered through the wind. Always make sure that you are scattering ashes down wind, so that it will be blown away from people. Release the ashes below waist height to avoid spreading it to other people.
It is ideal to have only one person to scatter the ashes, but taking turns is also acceptable. If a whole group is going to do it, consider distributing the ashes in separate smaller urns.

Raking: There are burial gardens specifically for this purpose. You can slowly scatter the ashes on the ground and then rake it to spread the ashes evenly. Not only will the ashes be easily dispersed, but you can cover a wider area with it.

Burial at sea: This is perhaps the first thing that comes to our minds when we think of spreading ashes. This can be done either at the beach or on the ocean. Consider using a specifically made scattering urn to make the process more efficient and to avoid any mishaps.

After the ashes have been scattered, it is common practice to throw flowers, petals or wreaths into the waters.
There are other ways to scatter the ashes but what remains the same are the solemnity and the memorability of the moment. Remember to check regarding the legality of the location where you will be spreading the ashes.