Have you ever paused to contemplate what awaits us after our time on Earth comes to an end? The topic of death and the afterlife remains sensitive, often evading open conversations. However, at The Natural Funeral, we strive to reshape this narrative.
Regardless of religious beliefs or philosophies, saying farewell to our loved ones is a universal practice that transcends all boundaries. That’s why it is crucial to approach this farewell mindfully.
In today’s world, we encounter an array of options for handling the final journey of our departed, from cryonics to cremation, entombment, and body donation for scientific purposes. Yet, conventional burials, including green burials, have stood the test of time as the most common form of “death care.” But what exactly is a green burial, and how does it differ from its conventional counterpart? The answer lies within these lines.
The Conventional Burial: A Farewell Enshrined in Preservation
When a loved one passes away, our focus inevitably shifts to honoring their memory through a final farewell—a memorial service that pays tribute to their time in this world. The contemplation of what follows is often too somber to linger on, leading us to channel our energy into perfecting their departure.
Enter the realm of conventional burials, where embalming the body, choosing a concrete grave liner, and selecting the perfect casket are customary practices. Such burials often host a ceremony, whether open or closed casket, ensuring that the chosen casing aligns with the essence of the occasion.
The core purpose of a conventional burial is to present the departed in a dignified manner before laying them to rest in the earth. While customs may vary across cultures, the underlying sentiment remains unchanged.
The Green Burial: A Return to Nature’s Embrace
Green burials provide an opportunity to keep our departed close as they embark on their final mission—to give back to Mother Nature. Stripped of all artificiality, these burials focus on returning to the simplicity and authenticity of our natural state.
Embalming and elaborate caskets are set aside in favor of biodegradable materials that enhance the beauty of the process. There are no grave liners or ostentatious headstones; these only contribute to waste and burden the Earth. Instead, green burials mark a legacy of goodness, allowing the body’s essence to be absorbed by the soil, harmoniously reuniting with the planet – dust to dust.
In a green burial, the body is left intact, wrapped in a natural shroud – usually cotton, silk or bamboo – and laid to rest in an eco-friendly casket made of wood, wicker, or cardboard. The focus shifts from preservation to embracing the cycle of life and returning to the very essence of existence.
The Difference Between Green and Conventional Burials: A Leap Towards Environmental Consciousness
Contrast conventional burials, which often incur excessive expenses and contribute to carbon footprints, green burials champion environmental friendliness. Where conventional burials focus on preserving the body, green burials emphasize the integration of the body with the Earth.
Yet, this environmentally conscious choice does not deprive families of the opportunity to hold a meaningful service. On the contrary, families are encouraged to honor their loved ones in personalized ways, even participating in the lowering of the body with ropes, if desired.
Green burials may seem unconventional at first, but when one reflects on their far-reaching benefits, it becomes apparent why 64% of American funeral customers embrace ecological approaches. It is a gift that continues to give back, even beyond one’s time.
A Lasting Legacy: Roots Entwined with Nature’s Embrace
The beauty of green burials lies in their ability to sow eternal roots, allowing the body to return to its final resting place and become one with Mother Nature. If you seek to explore this profound and environmentally mindful approach further, don’t hesitate to contact The Natural Funeral at (720) 515-2344. Our compassionate team is available 24/7, ready to guide you and your loved ones toward a farewell that celebrates the boundless beauty of nature.
