Do You Want to Scatter Cremation Ashes? Here Are Some Ideas

Schrader-Howell Funeral Home • March 22, 2021

Many families who arrange cremation services in Canton Township, MI choose to scatter the cremated remains of their deceased relative. If you’re planning a cremation with a funeral home, here are some ideas on how you can go about scattering the ashes. 

 

Casting the Cremated Remains 

One way you can scatter the ashes is by casting them. This refers to casting the cremated remains or cremains into the wind, on water, or on land. So it’s flexible. Many folks find this ceremony has a really symbolic significance, and it allows them to heal as they give their loved one a final send-off. When you plan to hold this particular kind of ceremony, ensure that you first establish the wind direction and launch the ashes downwind. 

 

Casting On the Water 

Another common approach to spreading ashes involves casting the cremated remains onto a body of water. You can either cast the ashes from the urn or cast a water-soluble urn containing the ashes into the water. Both the urn and the ashes will dissolve in the water. Since neither the urn nor the ashes are injurious to public health or the environment, you won’t have to worry about any potential negative impact of casting on the water. It’s a good idea to ask your regional authorities for guidance should you wish to go this route. It’s not that casting on the water is illegal, but there are sometimes regulations pertaining to how far from shore you should be before you do so. It’s always best to be in compliance. 

Raking the Ashes 

Scattering ashes in the backyard is becoming more and more common. If you choose to do it on your property, you can first hold a small memorial or celebration of life ceremony before going to the backyard to rake the ashes. This involves scattering the ashes into the earth, like in a garden, and then using a rake to work the cremated remains into the earth. The good news is that you can incorporate multiple people. This means giving everyone a chance to rake the ashes into the ground. You can also find a cemetery that has a scattering garden if you’d rather not scatter the ashes on your own property. More and more people are going this route. 

 

If you’re looking for a provider of cremation services in Canton Township, MI, we’re here for you. We specialize in helping people with their funeral and cremation planning. We understand that most of the people who come to us for assistance are not aware of what the planning process entails. So it’s our goal to explain the process, answer questions, and provide recommendations. Our staff members are experienced professionals who are committed to helping the families and individuals who need help planning funerals or cremations. You can count on them to assist you in any way you need. For the assistance you require, get in touch by phone or visit us in person. We’re here to help! 

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