Did you know that the Sacral Chakra can increase your creativity, resilience, confidence, and happiness? The Sacral Chakra, also known as Swadhisthana chakra in Sanskrit, is one of the 114 energy centres or chakras in the body. Located in the lower abdomen, precisely four fingers below the navel, and positioned around the pubic bone in the front. Additionally, you can also access it approximately two finger-widths above the root chakra along the spine.
In this article, you will explore the details of the Sacral Chakra, covering its meaning, location, symbols, mantras, colors, crystals, yoga poses, side effects, petal names, foods, and techniques for balancing and unblocking it.
You will also learn about what blocks the Sacral Chakra, the symptoms of a blocked Sacral Chakra, how to unblock and balance this yellow chakra, and what happens when the Swadhisthana chakra is activated.
The Sacral Chakra is associated with the reproductive organs. The term Svadhisthana or Swadhisthana means ‘the dwelling place of the self’. It supports personal exploration of deep desires, creativity, and overall joy in life. The colour of Sacral chakra is orange, the colour of the sunrise, which is symbolic of the awakening consciousness. Moreover, orange is the colour of activity and purity.
What is the Sacral Chakra or the Swadhisthana Chakra?
The Svadhisthana Chakra, also known as the Sacral Chakra, is the second energy center that may be found inside the human body. It is considered to be one of the most powerful chakras of the seven chakras.
Location of the sacral chakra:
In the front, the sacral chakra is located around the pubic bone (ध्वजमूलदेशे). Moreover, in the back, you can access it in the spine, about two to four fingers wide above the root chakra in the region of the hip or waist (अङ्कदेश). There are six micro-chakras around the sacral chakra. Depending on your practice and requirements, you must use them properly.
The Sanskrit word “Swadhishtana” originates from the amalgamation of two terms: “swa” and “adhishtana”. “Swa” means “self”, while “adhishtana” refers to “established” or “dwelling place”. Thus, “Swadhishtana” signifies “the place where the self is established”, essentially representing the dwelling place of the self.
The Swadhisthana Chakra is associated with several symbols, including the element of water, the color orange, and the six-petaled lotus. The element of water represents flow, transformation and purification, while the color orange represents optimism and confidence. Because it is a bright and vivacious color, it may help people feel outgoing or even bold. The six-petaled lotus symbolizes the six pranas or life energies that flow through the body.
In human body there are 114 chakras, to activate the sacral chakra joyfully, you need to activate a set of other micro chakras. Partially activated Svadhisthana chakra chakra or badly activated sacral chakra is harmful and may create many imbalances. To avoid that you need to activate and balance a set of other micro chakras.
The association of the Sacral Chakra with the testes and ovaries underscores its significance in regulating energy and reproductive functions. These organs play a pivotal role in the production of hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, which exert profound influence over human behaviors, fertility, and overall well-being.
Dormant Samskaras:
Samskaras, in yogic philosophy, refer to mental impressions, habits, or patterns formed through past experiences and actions. These samskaras reside dormant within the sacral chakra, influencing our emotional responses, desires, and behaviors. Just as genetic information lies dormant within the testes and ovaries until activated for reproduction, samskaras remain latent until triggered by external stimuli or internal processes.
Storage of Genetic Information:
The Swadishtana chakra contains the main blueprint of life, and the main karmic imprints. The testes and ovaries not only produce hormones but also store genetic information essential for reproduction. Within the DNA of reproductive cells (sperm and eggs), lies the blueprint for human life, carrying the genetic instructions passed down from one generation to the next. This storage of genetic information parallels the concept of samskaras, or potential karmic imprints, lying dormant within the Svadhisthana Chakra.
Functions of the Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra serves as the nexus of our personal power, overseeing our sense of self-identity and ego. It presides over a spectrum of vital aspects including creativity, desires, emotions, pleasures, and resilience, shaping our innermost essence. Aligned with the element of water, symbolizing transformation and fluidity, it embodies the ever-changing nature of existence.
When the sacral chakra is open and balanced, we feel confident, motivated, and empowered. We have a clear sense of purpose, creativity, and direction in life and feel in control of our destiny. We can make decisions with ease and clarity. On the other hand, if the sacral chakra is blocked, we may experience a lack of self-confidence, low self-esteem, and a lack of motivation. We may also struggle with indecision and feel powerless to change our circumstances.
Here are the key functions associated with the sacral chakra:
- Creativity: The sacral chakra is deeply connected with creativity in all its forms, including artistic expression, innovation, and problem-solving. When this chakra is balanced and open, it can enhance one’s ability to tap into their creative potential.
- Emotions: This chakra governs our emotions, including both positive and negative feelings. It helps us understand, process, and manage our emotions in a healthy manner. A balanced sacral chakra allows for emotional stability and resilience.
- Reproduction: The sacral chakra is closely linked with reproductive organs and reproduction energy. It influences our attitudes towards intimacy, and pleasure. A balanced sacral chakra fosters healthy relationships and a positive connections with human, and nature.
- Pleasure and Enjoyment: This chakra is associated with pleasure, enjoyment, and the experience of life’s sensual delights. It encourages us to find joy in simple pleasures and engage in activities that bring us happiness and fulfillment.
- Karma Clearing: The sacral chakra is believed to play a role in the release and clearing of karmic imprints or patterns from past experiences. By working with this chakra, individuals may address and resolve emotional wounds and patterns that hinder personal growth.
- Fluidity and Adaptability: Just as water flows and adapts to its surroundings, the sacral chakra governs our ability to go with the flow of life, adapt to change, and embrace transformation. It encourages flexibility and openness to new experiences.
- Social Connections: This chakra also influences our interactions with others and our sense of belonging in social groups. It encourages healthy relationships, empathy, and the ability to connect with others on an emotional level.
Overall, the sacral chakra is crucial for nurturing our emotional well-being, creativity, and sense of pleasure and connection in life. Balancing and harmonizing this energy center can lead to greater emotional resilience, creativity, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
Symbols of the Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra is represented by the color orange, which symbolizes energy, optimism, and positivity. The associated symbol for the sacral chakra is a six-petaled lotus flower. Here’s a detailed explanation of its elements:
- Orange Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera): The Svadhisthana Chakra is symbolized by a orange lotus with six vermilion-colored (सिन्दूर) petals. The white lotus represents purity and spiritual enlightenment, while the vermilion petals symbolize vitality and energy. The lotus is a common motif in Hinduism, representing purity, growth, and transcendence. It is pure like the autumn moon सरदिन्दुशुभ्रं (Saradindu-śubhraṁ).
- Syllables Inscribed on Petals: Each of the six petals of the lotus is inscribed with a specific syllable: बं (baṃ), भं (bhaṃ), मं (maṃ), यं (yaṃ), रं (raṃ), and लं (laṃ). These syllables correspond to the energy vibrations associated with the Sacral Chakra, facilitating meditation and alignment with its energy.
- Crescent Moon: Inside the lotus, there is a white crescent moon, symbolizing the water element and presided over by the deity Varuna. The moon represents the feminine energy and the flow of emotions and intuition associated with the Sacral Chakra. Varuna is a Hindu deity associated with water, oceans, and celestial bodies, often depicted as the ruler of the cosmic waters.
- Animal Crocodile: The Crocodile symbolizes several key qualities associated with the Sacral Chakra. This representing primal instincts, patience, fluidity, adaptability, wisdom, and strength. Moreover, Crocodile is known for its ability to patiently wait and observe its surroundings before taking action. Similarly, the Sacral Chakra encourages us to embrace patience and mindfulness, allowing us to observe our emotions and desires before acting upon them.
- Seed Mantra: At the center of the lotus, there is a seed mantra represented by the moon-white syllable वं (vaṃ). The seed mantra is a sacred sound vibration that resonates with the energy of the Sacral Chakra, facilitating focus and alignment during meditation and chakra balancing practices.
- Deity Vishnu: Above the seed mantra, within the bindu or dot, resides the deity Vishnu. Vishnu is depicted as dark blue and adorned in a yellow dhoti. He holds sacred symbols including a conch shell, a mace, a wheel (Chakra), and a lotus flower. Vishnu is a major deity in Hinduism, known as the preserver of the universe and embodiment of divine mercy and compassion.
- Goddess Rakini: Vishnu’s strength is represented by the goddess Rakini, who sits beside him. Rakini is dressed in red or white attire, and seated on the red lotus. She is a fierce yet protective deity, often depicted with one face and two arms holding a sword and shield, or with two faces and four arms holding various weapons. Rakini embodies the power and vitality associated with the Sacral Chakra, aiding in its activation and balance.
Sacral Chakra the Six Petaled Lotus
The six petals of the chakra represent its power to overcome the six negative qualities of mind which are: anger, hatred, jealousy, cruelty, desire and pride. Through the practice of Svadhisthana Chakra, one can transcend these detrimental attributes and cultivate positive qualities essential for personal growth and well-being. Moreover, each petal corresponds to a specific mantra, encapsulating a virtue that counteracts its negative counterpart:
- Affection and Love (बं baṃ): This petal symbolizes feelings of love, warmth, and compassion. It represents our capacity to connect with others on an emotional level, fostering bonds of affection and empathy. Affection allows us to experience intimacy and nurturing relationships, cultivating a sense of belonging and emotional support in our lives. Moreover, this petal counteracts anger, replacing it with understanding and compassion.
- Mercy (भं bhaṃ): Pitilessness is transformed into mercy, embracing forgiveness and understanding. Mercy enables us to offer kindness and support to ourselves and others, breaking down barriers and cultivating a sense of unity and acceptance.
- Self-empowerment (मं maṃ): Instead of succumbing to self-destructive tendencies, this quality empowers us to overcome obstacles and pursue growth. Self-empowerment fosters resilience and determination, guiding us towards self-improvement and fulfillment.
- Clarity (यं yaṃ): Delusion gives way to clarity, illuminating our path with truth and understanding. Clarity allows us to see things as they are, free from distortion and misconception, empowering us to make informed decisions and navigate life with confidence.
- Acceptance (रं raṃ): Disdain is replaced by acceptance, embracing ourselves and others with open-mindedness and non-judgment. Acceptance fosters genuine connection and mutual respect, creating space for authentic relationships to thrive.
- Trust (लं laṃ): Suspicion transforms into trust, fostering openness and vulnerability in our interactions. Trust enables us to let down our guard and embrace intimacy, building strong foundations for meaningful connections and heartfelt bonds.
The 72000 nadis in the body are connected to these 6 petals of the second chakra. When you understand the interaction between the energy channels and this orange chakra petals, you can better control your emotions, inner peace, tranquility, creative power, resilience, and leadership qualities.
Mantras for the Swadhisthana Chakra
This Second Chakra, also known as the Sacral Chakra or Svadhisthana, is intricately linked to the element of water, embodying fluidity, adaptability, and emotional depth. At its core lies a potent mantra, symbolized by the moon-white syllable वं (vaṃ), representing the essence of this energy center.
Through the harmonizing influence of वं (vaṃ), the Sacral Chakra becomes a sacred sanctuary, fostering a profound connection to one’s passions and desires, while nurturing a sense of inner peace and balance amidst life’s currents.
When using the mantra “Vam” for the sacral chakra, you can visualize a bright orange light radiating from this area. This light represents the energy of the sacral chakra, and it can help you connect with its qualities of creativity, joy, and emotional balance, and courage.
God and Goddess of the Sacral Chakra
The syllable वं (vaṃ) serves as the seed mantra for the Sacral Chakra. Above this mantra, there is the bindu, a dot representing the deity Lord Vishnu, along with Indra and Varuna. In this chakra, Lord Vishnu is present with the two great gems Srivatsa and Kaustubh श्रीवत्सकौस्तुभधरो (Śrīvatsa-kaustubha-dharo).
Here, Lord Vishnu Shakti is the goddess Rakini. She is of the colour of a blue lotus. She too makes the gestures of granting boons and dispelling fear, and is seated upon a vibrant red lotus. The goddess Rakini, epitomizing the strength and vitality of the Sacral Chakra, complements Vishnu’s presence.
Balancing the Sacral Chakra
There are several techniques that you can use to balance the sacral chakra. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Practice affirmations: Affirmations are positive statements that can help you shift your mindset and enhance your self-esteem and confidence. Some examples of affirmations for the sacral chakra include “I am creative,” “I trust myself,” and “I honor my happiness, and joy.”
- Visualization: Visualization is a powerful technique that can help you connect with the energy of the second chakra. You can visualize a bright orange light radiating from this area and filling your entire body with its energy.
- Practice yoga: Yoga postures that can help balance the Swadhisthana Chakra chakra include the Cobra pose, Bridge pose. These postures can help you develop a strong sense of willpower and determination.
- Breathing exercises: Breathing exercises, such as Kapalabhati and Bhastrika, can help stimulate this orange chakra and enhance its energy.
- Color therapy: Color therapy is another technique that can be used to balance the sacral chakra. You can surround yourself with the color orange by wearing orange clothing, using orange gemstones or crystals, or decorating your space with orange objects.
What Weakens the Sacral Chakra?
The sacral chakra, being the center of emotions, creativity, and pleasure, can be weakened by various factors that disrupt its natural flow of energy. Here are some common factors that can weaken the sacral chakra:
- Emotional Trauma: Past emotional traumas, such as abuse, neglect, or abandonment, can create blockages in the sacral chakra, hindering its ability to function optimally. Unresolved emotions and negative experiences can lead to a buildup of stagnant energy, weakening the sacral chakra over time.
- Repression of Emotions: Suppressing or repressing emotions instead of acknowledging and processing them can result in imbalances in the sacral chakra. Emotions that are ignored or denied can become trapped in the energy system, causing disruptions in the flow of energy through the sacral chakra.
- Unhealthy Relationships: Toxic or dysfunctional relationships can drain the energy of the sacral chakra, leading to feelings of disconnection, insecurity, and low self-worth. Codependent patterns, lack of boundaries, and emotional manipulation can all weaken the sacral chakra over time.
- Shame or Guilt: Cultural taboos, religious beliefs, or past experiences related to sexuality can create shame or guilt around sexual expression, inhibiting the healthy functioning of the sacral chakra. Repressed emotional energy can lead to blockages and imbalances in this energy center.
- Lack of Creativity: Suppressing or neglecting one’s creative impulses can weaken the sacral chakra, as creativity is closely linked to this energy center. A lack of creative expression can result in feelings of stagnation, boredom, and frustration, dampening the vitality of the sacral chakra.
- Addictions and Overindulgence: Excessive consumption of substances such as drugs, alcohol, or food, as well as addictive behaviors such as gambling or shopping, can weaken the sacral chakra. These behaviors provide temporary pleasure but ultimately deplete the energy of the sacral chakra and disrupt its natural balance.
- Unbalanced Lifestyle: A lack of balance in one’s lifestyle, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress, can weaken the sacral chakra. Neglecting self-care and neglecting one’s emotional and physical needs can lead to imbalances in this energy center.
- Fear of Change: The sacral chakra is associated with fluidity and adaptability, and fear of change can inhibit its natural flow of energy. Resistance to change can lead to feelings of insecurity, rigidity, and lack of spontaneity, weakening the sacral chakra over time.
Addressing these factors and incorporating practices such as mindfulness, emotional healing, creative expression, and healthy boundaries can help to strengthen and balance the sacral chakra, promoting emotional well-being, creativity, and pleasure.
Foods that Unblock the Swadhisthana Chakra
Foods can play a significant role in unblocking and balancing the Swadhisthana (Sacral) chakra, helping to restore its vitality and flow of energy. Here are some nourishing options that can support the health of the sacral chakra:
- Orange Fruits and Vegetables: Oranges, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and other orange-colored foods are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help to nourish and balance the sacral chakra. These foods promote creativity, joy, and emotional well-being.
- Seeds: Seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds are high in essential nutrients like zinc and magnesium, which support the sacral chakra’s functions. They also provide a sense of grounding and stability, helping to balance emotions and enhance creativity.
- Nuts: Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc, which are beneficial for the sacral chakra. They provide sustained energy and nourishment, promoting emotional stability and creativity.
- Fatty Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and emotional well-being. These nutrients help to nourish the sacral chakra and promote a sense of flow and abundance.
- Coconut: Coconut, in its various forms such as coconut oil, coconut milk, and shredded coconut, is a nourishing food for the sacral chakra. It provides a sense of sweetness and comfort, promoting emotional balance and creativity.
- Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that is associated with the sacral chakra. It provides a sense of warmth and pleasure, helping to balance emotions and enhance creativity. Incorporating honey into your diet can support the health of the sacral chakra.
- Water: Staying hydrated is essential for the health of all the chakras, including the sacral chakra. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep energy flowing smoothly through the body and promotes emotional well-being.
- Herbal Teas: Herbal teas such as ginger tea, chamomile tea, and cinnamon tea can help to balance the sacral chakra and promote emotional healing. These teas provide warmth and comfort, helping to soothe and nourish the sacral chakra.
- Spices: Spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom are warming and energizing, making them beneficial for the sacral chakra. Adding these spices to your meals can help to stimulate creativity and promote emotional balance.
- Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which support overall health and well-being. It provides a sense of pleasure and satisfaction, helping to nourish the sacral chakra and promote emotional healing.
Incorporating these foods into your diet can help to support the health and balance of the sacral chakra, promoting emotional well-being, creativity, and vitality. Experiment with different foods and notice how they make you feel, tuning into the nourishing energy of the sacral chakra as you eat.
Crystals for the Third Chakra
Crystals can be powerful allies in balancing and aligning the sacral chakra, helping to restore harmony and vitality to this energy center. Here are some crystals commonly associated with the sacral chakra:
- Carnelian: Carnelian is a vibrant orange crystal that resonates strongly with the sacral chakra. It is known for its ability to enhance creativity, passion, and sensuality, making it an excellent stone for stimulating the sacral energy flow.
- Orange Calcite: Orange Calcite radiates warmth and joy, making it ideal for clearing blockages and invigorating the sacral chakra. It promotes emotional balance, creativity, and self-expression, helping individuals tap into their creative potential.
- Sunstone: Sunstone’s radiant energy uplifts and energizes the sacral chakra, promoting vitality, enthusiasm, and confidence. It encourages a positive outlook on life and enhances one’s ability to manifest their desires.
- Amber: Amber is a fossilized resin that embodies the warmth and vitality of the sun. It stimulates the sacral chakra, promoting feelings of joy, pleasure, and emotional healing. Amber also offers protection and grounding, helping to dispel negative energies.
- Tiger’s Eye: Tiger’s Eye is a powerful stone for balancing the sacral chakra and promoting emotional stability. Its golden hues inspire courage, confidence, and self-empowerment, encouraging individuals to embrace their true desires and passions.
Side effects of bad activation of sacral chakra
An imbalanced or poorly activated sacral chakra can manifest in various negative ways, impacting both our physical and emotional well-being. Here are some potential side effects of a poorly activated sacral chakra:
- Emotional Instability: An imbalanced sacral chakra can lead to heightened emotional sensitivity and instability. Individuals may experience mood swings, irrational fears, and difficulty regulating their emotions.
- Sexual Dysfunction: The sacral chakra governs our sexuality and pleasure. When imbalanced, it can lead to sexual issues such as decreased libido, difficulty experiencing pleasure, and challenges in intimacy and connection with partners.
- Creative Blockages: The sacral chakra is closely linked to creativity and self-expression. When imbalanced, individuals may experience creative blockages, lack of inspiration, and difficulty tapping into their artistic or innovative potential.
- Addictive Behaviors: A poorly activated sacral chakra can contribute to addictive tendencies and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Individuals may turn to substances or behaviors such as overeating, substance abuse, or excessive spending to numb their emotions or fill a void.
- Low Self-Worth: The sacral chakra is associated with our sense of self-worth and self-esteem. When imbalanced, individuals may struggle with feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence in their abilities.
- Difficulty in Relationships: Imbalances in the sacral chakra can impact our ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. This may manifest as issues with trust, intimacy, and communication, leading to conflicts and disconnection with others.
- Physical Discomfort: Physical symptoms such as lower back pain, urinary problems, and reproductive issues may arise from an imbalanced sacral chakra. These symptoms can be indicative of blocked energy flow in the sacral area.
- Creative and Sexual Frustration: Individuals with a poorly activated sacral chakra may feel frustrated and unfulfilled in their creative and sexual endeavors. This can lead to a sense of stagnation and dissatisfaction in life.
- Difficulty Setting Boundaries: The sacral chakra is also associated with healthy boundaries and self-respect. When imbalanced, individuals may struggle to assert themselves and set boundaries in their personal and professional relationships, leading to feelings of being taken advantage of or overwhelmed.
- Lack of Passion and Joy: A blocked or imbalanced sacral chakra can result in a diminished ability to experience pleasure, joy, and enthusiasm for life. This can lead to a sense of apathy, lethargy, and disconnection from one’s inner spark and zest for living.
Addressing these side effects requires a holistic approach that focuses on restoring balance and harmony to the sacral chakra through practices such as meditation, energy healing, creative expression, and emotional processing. Working with a qualified energy healer or therapist can also provide support and guidance in navigating the healing journey.
Zodiac Signs and the Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra is associated with the zodiac sign of Scorpio. Scorpio, known for its intense and transformative nature, resonates deeply with the sacral chakra, the energy center that governs sexuality, passion, and emotional depth.
Scorpios can unlock the full potential of your sacral chakra, allowing them to experience greater passion, depth, and fulfillment in all areas of life. Scorpios can release any emotional blockages that may be inhibiting the free flow of energy through the sacral chakra.
The Gift of the Sacral Chakra
When the sacral chakra is aligned, you become powerful manifestor, effortlessly bringing your dreams and desires into reality. By aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions, you harness your creative energy of this chakra to manifest your deepest aspirations.
Emotions Associated with the Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra, being the center of emotions and creativity, is associated with a range of feelings that deeply influence our experiences and interactions. Here are five emotions commonly linked to the sacral chakra:
- Passion: This intense emotion ignites our inner fire and drives us towards our desires and goals. When the sacral chakra is balanced, we feel passionate about life, relationships, and creative endeavors.
- Joy: Joy is a profound sense of happiness and contentment that arises from within. When the sacral chakra is open, we experience joy in the simple pleasures of life and find delight in our creative expressions.
- Sensuality: Sensuality encompasses our ability to fully experience the pleasures of the physical world, including touch, taste, smell, and sound. When the sacral chakra is activated, we become more attuned to our senses and derive pleasure from sensory experiences.
- Desire: Desires are the driving force behind our actions and aspirations. When the sacral chakra is balanced, we are in touch with our authentic desires and pursue them with confidence and determination.
- Vulnerability: Vulnerability involves being open and authentic in expressing our emotions and needs. When the sacral chakra is in harmony, we feel comfortable being vulnerable with ourselves and others, fostering deeper connections and intimacy in relationships.
These emotions, when experienced in balance, contribute to a rich and fulfilling life, allowing us to connect with our innermost selves and the world around us on a deeper level.
Affirmations for the the Sacral Chakra
Some affirmations that can help you activate and balance the Sacral Chakra:
- I am creative energy flowing effortlessly through me.
- I am in honour my emotions, accepting them fully.
- I am honor my happiness, pleasures, and joy in my life.
- I am free from self-doubt and fear.
- I am resilient, overcoming obstacles with ease.
- I am releasing past guilt and embracing forgiveness.
- I am open to receiving abundance from the universe.
- I am confident in expressing my desires.
- I am embracing change, growing with each experience.
- I am connected to my intuition, guiding me on my path.
Repeat these affirmations to yourself regularly, either silently or out loud, with conviction and belief. Over time, they can help to reprogram your subconscious mind and bring about a greater sense of confidence, creativity, and personal power.
Conclusion
The sacral chakra is an essential component of your energetic system, responsible for your mental impressions, habit patterns, creativity, joy, happiness, resilience, and confidence. When this chakra is open and balanced, you feel confident and empowered to pursue your goals and dreams. By using techniques such as affirmations, visualization, and yoga, you can balance the sacral chakra and enhance its energy. With a balanced sacral chakra, you can tap into your personal power and live your lives with purpose and conviction.