As a specialist in the field of human biology and physiology, I can provide an in-depth explanation of what happens to your body after death. The process of decomposition and the changes that occur in the body are complex and multifaceted. Here is a detailed account of the stages and phenomena that typically occur post-mortem.

Immediate Post-Death Changes
- Cessation of Brain Function: The moment you die, your brain ceases to function. This halts all cognitive processes and bodily control mechanisms.
- Relaxation of Muscles: Immediately after death, all muscles in your body relax. This includes the sphincter muscles that control the release of bodily waste, which can lead to involuntary release of urine and feces.

Early Stages of Decomposition
- Alkalosis: The cessation of respiration leads to a buildup of carbon dioxide, causing the blood to become more acidic.
- Hypothermia: Without the body's natural mechanisms to regulate temperature, the body begins to cool, approaching the ambient temperature of the environment.

Rigor Mortis
- Stiffening of Muscles: Rigor mortis, the stiffening of the body's muscles, typically begins a few hours after death and peaks after about 12 to 24 hours. This is due to chemical changes within the muscle fibers.

Autolysis
- Internal Breakdown: Autolysis is the process where the body's own enzymes start breaking down tissues from within. This can lead to the release of gases and fluids.

Putrefaction
- Bacterial Activity: As bacteria present in the body begin to multiply, they produce gases that cause the body to bloat. This is the stage where the characteristic smell of decomposition is most noticeable.

Decay
- Soft Tissue Degradation: Over time, the soft tissues of the body break down, facilitated by bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.

Skeletalization
- Remains: Eventually, all that remains are the bones, which may take months or even years to fully decompose, depending on environmental conditions.

Throughout this process, the body undergoes a series of predictable changes, each influenced by factors such as the environment, temperature, and the presence of microorganisms. It is a natural part of the cycle of life and an intricate process that is still the subject of ongoing scientific study.

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While rigor mortis sets in eventually, as soon as you die, every muscle in your body relaxes. That includes the sphincters that are in charge of keeping your bladder and bowels on lockdown, says Jorgenson. ... After all, the muscles that are responsible for forcefully pushing out the nasties are dead.Mar 6, 2015read more >>