Pre-Construction of One's Own Grave (Kāi Shēng Fén)

This refers to the practice of pre-constructing one's own tomb while still living. In traditional terms, this is known as a 'longevity tomb' (shòufén) or 'living foundation' (shēngjī). Motivations vary: some, due to old age, wish to arrange posthumous affairs in advance, while others, based on specific metaphysical or feng shui considerations, believe this practice can enhance blessings, extend longevity, and avert disasters. Because it involves building one's own yin dwelling (burial site), the selection of the date and time is particularly meticulous. Traditionally, one avoids days that clash with their own bazi (eight characters of birth) and chooses dates when auspicious deities are present and malevolent forces are absent for the groundbreaking.