Cremation is a growing trend in the funeral industry, with more and more people choosing it as an alternative to traditional burials. However, what happens to the ashes after the cremation is a mystery to many.

When a body is cremated, it is placed inside a cremation chamber where it is exposed to intense heat, typically between 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, until it is reduced to bone fragments. The bone fragments are then processed into a fine powder, which is the ashes that are returned to the family.

But what happens next with those ashes? The options are numerous, and many people are unaware of them.

One option is to keep the ashes at home in an urn or other container. This allows the family to keep their loved one close and to feel a sense of comfort and connection. However, this is not always practical, and some people may prefer a different option.

Another option is to scatter the ashes in a meaningful location. This could be a favorite outdoor spot, a place that held special significance for the deceased, or any other location that feels appropriate. It is important to note, however, that certain laws and regulations apply to scattering ashes in public places, and permission may be required.

A third option is to bury the ashes. This could be in a traditional cemetery, a natural burial ground, or a designated spot on private property. Some people choose to bury the ashes alongside a memorial marker or other tribute to the deceased.

A fourth option is to incorporate the ashes into a piece of jewelry or other keepsake. This allows the family to carry a tangible reminder of their loved one with them wherever they go.

There are also more unconventional options available, such as launching the ashes into space or having them turned into a vinyl record.

It is important for individuals and families to consider their options carefully and to choose the one that feels most appropriate for them. It is also important to keep in mind any legal or practical considerations, such as zoning laws or regulations for transportation and scattering of ashes.

As cremation becomes more popular, it is likely that new options will become available, and the funeral industry will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs and desires of consumers.

In the end, the most important thing is for families to feel a sense of closure and comfort in their chosen method of handling their loved one’s ashes. Whether they choose to keep the ashes at home, scatter them in a special location, or incorporate them into a piece of jewelry, the decision should be based on what feels most meaningful and appropriate to them.