In Hindu traditions, what is a preferred position for one's body during death?

In Hindu traditions, it is believed that the head should be facing north at the time of death. This belief is rooted in the symbolism of the north direction, which is often associated with spiritual elevation and connection to the divine. The north is seen as a direction that leads towards enlightenment and the heavens, making it significant in the context of death and the journey of the soul after passing.

In contrast, the other positions do not carry the same spiritual significance. The head facing south is often avoided, as it is associated with the realm of the ancestors and can signify a downward trajectory. West is generally not favored either, as it does not hold the same spiritual connotations as north. The option of having no specific position may reflect a more modern or less traditional way of thinking, but in the context of traditional Hindu practices, the alignment of the body at death is indeed a meaningful consideration.