Scattering of Ashes

About Scattering of Ashes

Scattering ashes or as known as casting ashes is what most people think of when they think of scattering: throwing the ashes into the wind. Casting ashes can be done in nearly any location.

When you consider casting or scattering ashes, be mindful that cremated remains are much heavier than what most people think of as “ashes.” This means that, while some of the remains can float away in the air, some of the remains will simply fall to the ground.

Because some of the remains are going to be airborne, it’s a good idea to have any guests stand upwind, so they don’t get in the way of the ashes by chance.

One person may be responsible for scattering the ashes at a casting or scattering, or anybody present may have a portion of ashes that they scatter.

Ways of Scattering the Ashes

There are many different ways to remember loved ones as their ashes are scattered.

Casting

Casting is the act of scattering the ashes in the air. Ashes are only going to travel a few feet. For the best experience, check the direction of the wind to avoid the ashes being blown back.

Trenching

Trenching is an alternative way. Loved ones scatter the ashes in the ground with the trenching of ashes, either pouring them out into the soil or burying them inside a biodegradable bag. Ashes can also be scattered on the ground and then raked in the ground

Scattering Over Water

Ashes can be scattered in a number of ways over the sea. You may scatter ashes across a river, a lake, a pond or the ocean. If you are trying to scatter the ashes over a large body of water, you may want to take a boat out onto the water and scatter the ashes from the boat

Why do we Scatter Ashes

Scattering ashes of a loved one brings lots of emotions and meaning to the families and the passing loved one. Here are a few examples of the more common ones.

Scattering Ashes Brings Joy and Happiness

Knowing that a loved one is having his or her ashes scattered at a favorite place provides a feeling of joy to many families and friends. This is typically a special place where the person who passed loved to visit and is somewhere where they were happy.

Scattering Ashes Provides Closure

Similar to burial, many people feel that the act of scattering a loved one’s ashes provides a feeling of closure. The thought that a loved one is at his or her final resting place can be comforting during such an emotional time.

Scattering Ashes Brings Peace

Many people choose to scatter in nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city and its daily routine. A scattering experience can make it possible for the family to get away to the peace and quiet of nature, clear their heads, and remember the special person who passed away.