Ash Scattering Ceremony Ideas

 Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger generation.  For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life.  ~Albert Einstein

Releasing the ashes of your deceased loved one is an emotional time. The scattering of ashes symbolizes the freedom your loved one has in his or her forever resting place. It can also be cathartic in saying goodbye or letting go of a loved one. 

Creating a unique ash scattering ceremony takes time, thought, and planning. The ceremony should tell the story of your loved one’s life and serve a way to keep their memory alive. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some suggestions for giving your loved one a special ash scattering sendoff.

Water Release

One of the most popular ways to scatter a loved one’s ashes, a water release symbolizes the cleansing of the soul and freedom. While most people consider taking a boat out on the water to scatter ashes, this could result in the ashes blowing back onto the boat if the wind shifts. Opt for a water-soluble urn where you can drop it into the water and the ashes will slowly disperse. If on the shore, place small amounts of the ashes into small boats made from water-soluble paper and watch them sail to their forever resting place. 

Planting Seeds

This is a perfect ceremony if your loved one was a gardener or simply enjoyed flowers. When scattering the ashes, mix in wildflower seeds and rake into the ground. This not only symbolizes the circle of life but also offers a calming place to reflect on the memories of your loved one. 

Flower colors also convey certain meanings. White signifies peace and purity; red - true love; yellow - friendship; and pink - joy and grace. 

Lantern Release

The act of releasing sky (or paper) lanterns with ashes signifies a light guiding your loved one’s spirit to heaven or another peaceful place. The ceremony can consist of one or several lanterns. For an added touch, some lanterns allow you to include special messages or prayers to honor your loved one. 

Butterfly Release

The butterfly symbolizes the change and transformation from one existence or life to another. The simple act of releasing butterflies can make the ceremony into a beautifully memorable event. 

Aerial Release

Having your loved one’s ashes scattered from a plane, helicopter, or hot air balloon can offer a breathtaking perspective on life. Have a professional release the ashes to ensure they fall in the correct spot or area. 

Trenching

A trenching ceremony involves digging a small home in the ground, placing the ashes of your loved one in it, and covering it with soil. A green burial is similar, except the ashes are placed in a biodegradable urn prior to burial. The area can then be decorated with photos, candles, and other memories of your loved one. 

Before you plan and hold any ceremony, contact the owner of the property or the authorities for public areas to ask for permission to scatter the ashes. Check with your local and state statutes to see if there are any potential legal issues. 

At A1 Affordable Cremation, we believe deeply in what we do and we take great pride in our ability to help your family at a difficult time. We have 24-hour availability by phone at 386-405-3128, or you can visit our website for more information.