Planning for your own funeral can seem like a macabre task, but it's important that you spend some time thinking about your preferences when it comes to death and burial. One of the most important decisions that you will make when planning for your funeral is whether or not you wish to be embalmed and buried or cremated.

Determining if you are a good candidate for cremation can be a challenge, but here are some questions that you can ask yourself to help make your choice a little easier in the future.

1. Is a viewing important to your family members?

A viewing or wake can play a critical role in the mourning process for many family members. Having the opportunity to view the body of a deceased loved one in order to say final goodbyes can give family members comfort and closure.

Before you make the decision to have your body cremated, you should consult with your friends and family members to determine how important a viewing is to them. This information will help you decide whether cremation or embalming and burial is your best option.

2. How transient is your family?

Some families take up residence within an area and stay for many generations. Other families move frequently and have members scattered throughout the country. If you come from a family that has a tendency to move often, then cremation can be a great option.

Your loved ones will be able to easily take your ashes along with them wherever they go to ensure that they are able to honor your memory and mourn from any location.

3. Do you want an eco-friendly funeral?

If environmental conservation is important to you, then you may want to consider the impact your death will have on the surrounding environment. The embalming process relies heavily on fluids containing the chemicals formaldehyde and phenol.

These chemicals are classified as human carcinogens, and they can be toxic when disposed of improperly. Making the decision to have your body cremated rather than embalmed ensures that you will not require the use of these toxic fluids to preserve your body. Cremation allows you to reduce your carbon footprint even after you pass away.

Determining if cremation is the right option for you can make the funeral planning process a lot easier. Be sure to take your family's preferences, affinity for moving, and your environmental concerns into consideration before opting to have your body cremated after death.