Native American Natural Burials & Funeral Service Rituals

Native American traditions follow the belief and practice that the natural world is truly sacred.

Many religious ceremonies are specifically tied to a specific location, and to harm that place would be contrary to Native American beliefs. Because of this, Native American funeral practices have always been eco-friendly.

What are rituals are specific to Native Americans?

• Although each tribe has its own specific customs, all have great respect for the earth.
• Many Native Americans believe that birth, life, and death are the elements of something much larger—an endless life cycle.
• Families take care of the deceased, making all funeral arrangements. They transport the body themselves, and their burial techniques are eco-friendly.
• The body is placed in a simple shroud or wooden casket.
• Although the body is often honored for up to 4 days, embalming fluids are not used.
• To preserve a body prior to interment, the body is usually kept cold using dry ice.

Native Americans are not the only green burial traditions; also see Jewish Natural Burials. As green burials become more and more popular, many other traditions are likely to adopt similar practices.