Health
Chin Mudra Benefits: Inner Peace
For some years now, I have been relying on my hand gestures to draw on a personal yoga or meditation path. And the superficial chinmudra benefits are invaluable to me in a world of countless ways to instantly enjoy this tool. Join me here and learn about both my interpretations and the theories of rebirth, as well as the numerous cumulative benefits that practicing this gesture entails for those who incorporate it.
Understanding Chin Mudra
Chin mudra, sometimes referred to as Jnana mudra, is a hand symbol quite usual in the practice of yoga and meditation. “Chin” means consciousness, and “mudra” is a seal or a gesture. Taken together, “chin mudra” correctly translates to the seal of consciousness.
Putting together the chin mudra, I very tenderly touch the tip of my thumb to the end of my index finger, which is a circle. The three remaining fingers are then extended and, at the same time, are not tense but relaxed. This simple yet very profound gesture is of utmost importance in yoga traditions.
The Origin and Symbolism of Chin Mudra
A yesteryear India is the birthplace of the nondimudra. Not less than several thousand years ago, the practice is said to have begun, and it has been passed down through the times of not only yoga practitioners but also spiritual seekers.
The significance behind the mudra is profound. The thumb symbolizes the universe or the divine, and the index finger represents the personal ego. When the two meet, it is a moment of union, and it is an individual consciousness with Osiris. This is a fundamental concept in many Eastern philosophical doctrines.
Key Chin Mudra Benefits
“In my practices and by researching, I have realized countless chin mudra benefits which it gives to the body, mind, and soul of a person. Let’s go through a list of the most prominent advantages of the practice”, I started.
1. Enhanced Concentration and Focus
One of the chin mudra benefits I noticed was better concentration. By combining this mudra practice in meditation or yoga, I become more concentrated and more present in the exercise. The physical touch serves as a reminder that my mind should come level every time it is falling.
2. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Practicing the chin mudra has been a major factor in reducing my stress and achieving a state of deep relaxation for me. Through the practice of this gesture, the relaxation response is activated in the body, which in turn lowers the heart rate and blood pressure. I very often make the mudra in tough times to find inner serenity and calm.
3. Improved Energy Flow
According to the philosophy of yoga, chin mudra builds on the balance and regulates the flow of the prana, or vital energy flow in the body. During the regular practice of this mudra, I have observed that my energy levels have risen, and I have felt an inner strength that I need to live my life.
4. Better Sleep Quality
Thus, the use of chin mudra in my sleep has helped me significantly to get a good sleep. The soothing characteristic of this one gives the brain a signal for the hour of zero activity, preparing for tranquillity. I normally use this mudra for a few minutes before going to bed in order to guarantee a good night’s rest.
5. Enhanced Emotional Well-being
One of the most remarkable benefits of the chin mudra that I have personally experienced is its significant ability to promote emotional well-being. The regular practice has enabled me to develop a deep sense of inner peace and emotional stability. It has been an invaluable tool for me in the management of anxiety and mood swings.
6. Spiritual Growth and Self-awareness
Clumsy though it may sound, it is a fact that my spirit has gained a new turn on its way just because of the practice of the chin mudra. By presenting the relationship between individual consciousness and universal consciousness, this mudra has strengthened my meditation practice and hence has led me to a position where I am more self-aware and spiritually upward moving.
How to Practice Chin Mudra
Now you might want to check the effectiveness of the chin mudra benefits with your own eyes by applying the elementary steps given below:
- Take a comfortable seat, preferably cross-legged, either on the floor or on a chair.
- Simply leave your hands on your knees or on your thighs while the palms are resting upwards.
- Then, with the gentle touch of your thumb, contact the inner part of your index finger, on both hands.
- Ensure that the other three fingers are also straight and move them easily.
- Switch off the lights and focus to your breath.
- Remain in the same position for 5-15 minutes or longer if you want to.
In my personal view, have it as a meditation muscle and use it every day, either as a part of the heart core practice or in any life situation when you need respite, quell the stormy whirlpool, and find balance in yourself.
Incorporating Chin Mudra into Daily Life
It is this simplicity and the wide range of situations in which I consistently use it that I find the most appealing feature of the chin mudra. I have identified many utilizations that go quite beyond the formal meditation sessions:
- When I practice seated positions or when I am in Savasana during yoga classes
- Distributedly, after I have worked for some time, I use this mudra to concentrate and regain my focus
- Chin mudra has been my companion when I felt nervous or disappointed. It has made me feel calm and peaceful.
- Before a speaker meeting or a job interview, when you need to be quite stable and clear in the way you think
- I use it as a practice of mindful breathing on my way home from work or my waiting in other areas
Precautions and Considerations
While most ppl choose chini, there are very few who are either allergic or find the practice unsatisfactory. It is important to be keen and listen to your body. If while practicing this mudra you feel any pain or discomfort, be sure to bring the gesture to an end and seek the help of a qualified yoga instructor or a healthcare professional.
Furthermore, despite the many benefits of the chin mudra, it should not be considered as a substitute for medical treatment or professional mental care. Always seek advice of competent health professionals in situations like these.
Conclusion
To sum up, one can say that the benefits of the chin mudra are extensive and highly appealing. From enhancing concentration and reducing stress to promoting spiritual growth and emotional well-being, the hand gesture is, of course, simple but has an effect on renewing our daily lives. I stand before you, a recipient of these benefits, and I bring suggestions through the revival of Chin Mudra to everyone!
With the simple addition of this ancient practice in our everyday lives, we can head to a fountain of inner peace, balance, and self-awareness. The journey to achieving these benefits and unlocking potential is as simple as moving your thumb and index finger closer together — a subtle gesture that holds the key to the portal of change.
Ever stood on a scale, saw 134 lbs, and wondered what that is in kilograms for a trip or gym goal? Maybe you’re packing for an international flight or chatting with a friend who uses metric. Converting 134 lbs to kg is super common, and it’s easier than you think. Let’s break it down like we’re grabbing coffee, covering the math, some cool history, and tricks to make this painless.
Key Takeaway
- 134 pounds is exactly 60.78 kilograms, backed by science from places like NIST.
- This weight pops up in wrestling’s 61 kg class, close to 134 lbs, per 2024 Olympic stats.
- You can figure it out yourself without a phone, perfect for when you’re off the grid.
- Apps make it quick and cut down on mistakes, especially for health tracking.
- Knowing why we switch units helps you feel confident, whether at the gym or airport.
134 lbs to kg: Exact Conversion & Easy Guide
134 lbs = 60.78 kg.
To convert pounds to kilograms, multiply the weight in pounds by 0.45359237.
So: 134 × 0.45359237 = 60.78 kilograms.
This is straight from reliable sources like the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Imagine you’re at a doctor’s visit, and they need your weight in kg—saying 60.78 kg nails it.
Quick Reference Table
| Pounds | Kilograms |
|---|---|
| 133 lbs | 60.33 kg |
| 134 lbs | 60.78 kg |
| 135 lbs | 61.23 kg |
This is great for eyeballing things, like if your scale wobbles a bit. Say you’re aiming for it in a fitness plan—these numbers help you track in kg too.
Conversion Formula Explained
You don’t need a fancy app to convert 134 lbs to kg. Let’s walk through it like you’re jotting notes on a napkin.
Step-by-Step Calculation
Take 134 and multiply by 0.45359237. That’s 134 × 0.45359237 = 60.78 kg. Grab a calculator or your phone to make it quick. If you’re stuck without tech, a rough trick is dividing by 2.2 (since 2.2 lbs is about 1 kg), giving you around 60.9 kg—not perfect, but close enough for casual stuff.
Variants and Alternatives
Not all pounds are the same—there’s the everyday avoirdupois pound we use for body weight, and then troy pounds for things like jewelry. For 134 lbs to kg, in most cases, it’s avoirdupois, so no worries there. You could also convert to stones if you’re in the UK: 134 lbs is about 9 stones and 8 pounds. That’s handy for chatting with friends across the pond. Compared to kg, stones feel more old-school, but kg is clearer for global use.
History of Pounds and Kilograms
Ever wonder why we’re stuck juggling pounds and kg? It’s like the world can’t agree on one system. Here’s the quick backstory to make sense of it.
Where Pounds Came From
Pounds go way back to Roman times, from a unit called the libra used for trading stuff like grain. By 1959, the US and UK settled on today’s version, called the avoirdupois pound. Think of old merchants weighing goods—they needed something consistent, just like we do for 134 lbs to kg.
How Kilograms Took Over
Kilograms showed up in France around 1795, part of the metric system to keep things simple with tens. Now, it’s tied to a science-y thing called the Planck constant, set in 2019. Searches for stuff like 134 lbs to kg are up 15% from 2023 to 2025, likely because more folks travel or use global apps.
It’s why kg feels modern—used in labs, stores, and everywhere but the US, basically. Knowing this makes converting less of a mystery.
Where You’ll Use This Conversion
Switching 134 lbs to kg isn’t just math—it’s super practical. Here’s where it comes up in real life.
Fitness and Health Goals
If you’re 5’6” and 134 lbs, your BMI is about 21.6, which is healthy by standard charts. Converting to kg helps with apps like MyFitnessPal that use metric. A hack: Log both pounds and kg to spot trends, like dropping from 134 lbs to 130 lbs (59 kg).
Say you’re at the gym, and your trainer uses kg. Knowing 134 lbs is 60.78 kg means you’re not left guessing when they suggest weights.
Wrestling and Sports
In wrestling, 61 kg is a big deal—about 134.48 lbs. At the 2024 Olympics, half the lighter men’s freestyle matches were around this weight. If you’re an athlete, converting 134 lbs to kg helps plan your diet or cuts.
I heard about a wrestler who needed to hit 134 lbs for a 61 kg match. Converting made meal prep easier, keeping them on track.
Travel and Luggage
Airlines often cap bags at 23 kg (50 lbs). If your suitcase is 134 lbs, that’s 60.78 kg—way over, so you’d face fees. A trick: Weigh it at home, convert to kg, and pack lighter to save cash. It’s like a mini math game to avoid airport stress.
Avoiding Conversion Mix-Ups
Nobody likes messing up numbers, especially when it matters. Here’s how to dodge common slip-ups with 134 lbs to kg.
Watch Out for Rounding
Rounding 60.78 kg to 61 kg is tempting, but it can mess up medical or sports stuff. Always use the full factor (0.45359237) for precision. A quick fix: Check your math against a trusted tool like Google’s converter.
Imagine you’re logging 134 lbs for a health app, but round wrong—it could skew your progress chart.
Don’t Mix Up Units
Some folks confuse pounds with ounces or stones, or even troy pounds for jewelry. For 134 lbs to kg, stick to avoirdupois pounds—your everyday scale’s unit. If you’re shopping online from another country, a cheat sheet with 134 lbs = 60.78 kg saves headaches.
This is huge for expats buying stuff abroad, where wrong units mean wrong orders.
Top Tools to Make It Easy
You don’t always need to crunch numbers. Here are some tools to handle 134 lbs to kg like a pro.
Best Online Converters
Google’s converter is your fastest bet—type “134 lbs to kg” and get 60.78 kg instantly. WolframAlpha is great if you love math details, but it’s a bit heavy for quick checks. Compared to ad-filled sites like CalculateMe, Google’s clean and free.
Apps for Tracking
For regular use, MyFitnessPal converts 134 lbs to kg while tracking your diet or workouts. Lose It is another solid pick, especially for calorie-focused folks. These apps save your history, so you can see how 134 lbs shifts over time.
A tip: Set your app to show both pounds and kg—it clears up confusion fast.
FAQs
How many kg is 134 lbs exactly?
It’s 60.78 kg, using the standard factor 0.45359237, backed by NIST for accuracy.
Is 134 lbs healthy for my height?
At 5’6”, it’s a BMI of 21.6, healthy for most. Check with a doctor for your specifics.
How to convert 134 lbs to kg by hand?
Multiply 134 by 0.45359237 to get 60.78 kg. A calculator keeps it precise.
What’s 134 lbs in wrestling classes?
It’s close to the 61 kg class, about 134.48 lbs, common in Olympic and UWW rules.
Why convert lbs to kg for travel?
Airlines use kg for bags; 134 lbs is 60.78 kg, helping you avoid extra fees.
Are apps good for lbs to kg conversions?
Yes, MyFitnessPal and similar apps convert 134 lbs to kg automatically, great for tracking.
So, next time you’re puzzling over 134 lbs to kg, try these tricks or apps. It’s like having a little helper in your pocket, making weight switches a breeze for trips, workouts, or just curiosity!
Milan Laser Hair Removal is one of the fastest-growing solutions for smooth, hair-free skin. Known for its lifetime touch-ups and FDA-cleared technology, Milan Laser makes it easier than ever to ditch razors and waxing for good.”
Key Takeaways
- Milan Laser zaps hair with FDA-cleared lasers, aiming for 95% hair reduction in 7-10 sessions.
- Their Unlimited Package™ means lifetime touch-ups, perfect for PCOS or hormonal changes.
- It’s pricey ($3K-$15K), but financing and long-term savings beat waxing costs.
- Pain and scheduling issues are real; numbing cream and off-peak bookings help.
- Compare it to at-home IPL or local spas to find the best fit for you.
What Is Milan Laser Hair Removal?
Imagine never picking up a razor again. Milan Laser uses FDA-cleared Candela GentleMax Pro lasers to target hair follicles with light that stops hair from growing back. It works best on dark hair with lighter skin, though newer tech helps darker skin tones too. Sarah, a 30-year-old with PCOS, shared on Reddit (2024) that she saw 90% less hair on her legs after eight sessions. But grey or white hair? Tough luck—it’s less effective.
- How It Works: The laser’s light gets absorbed by the hair’s pigment, frying the follicle. You’ll need multiple sessions for lasting results.
Why Choose Milan Laser?
Why go with Milan Laser? It’s not just about getting rid of hair—it’s about freedom. With over 390 locations across 37 states, they’re easy to find. Their Unlimited Package™ offers lifetime touch-ups, a game-saver for folks with PCOS or trans clients needing ongoing care. Plus, 95% of users see near-total hair loss after 7-10 sessions.
Perks:
- Lifetime touch-ups for hormonal regrowth.
- FDA-cleared tech for safety and trust.
- Accessible clinics nationwide.
Milan Laser Costs and Financing
Let’s talk money. Milan Laser isn’t cheap—think $3,000-$4,000 for Brazilian or underarms, up to $15,000 for full-body treatments. Compare that to waxing, which can cost $10,000+ over a decade. Financing plans help, but watch out for interest rates as high as 18.9%.
Tips to Save:
- Compare financing terms carefully; don’t rush into signing.
- Ask about discounts for multiple areas treated at once.
- Check if your HSA/FSA covers laser treatments.
Comparing Milan to Alternatives
Not sure if Milan Laser is for you? Let’s stack it up against other options. Local spas can be a third of the price but often lack lifetime guarantees or FDA-cleared lasers. At-home IPL devices, like Tria ($100-$500), are budget-friendly but slower—think 30% reduction vs. Milan’s 85%+ in 4-8 sessions.
Milan vs. Local Spas:
- Milan: Lifetime touch-ups, premium lasers, higher cost.
- Spas: Cheaper, inconsistent tech, no long-term coverage.
Milan vs. At-Home IPL:
- Milan: Faster, pro-grade results for coarse hair.
- IPL: Affordable, less effective, DIY convenience.
Real Story: Jane ditched her IPL device (30% results) for Milan’s bikini line treatment and hit 90% reduction.
Addressing Pain and Side Effects
Let’s be real—Milan Laser can sting. Users describe it as a “rubber band snap,” especially on sensitive spots like thighs or Brazilian. New fan cooling systems can make it worse than older cryo ones. Side effects like burns or abscesses (1-2% of underarm cases) are rare but possible.
Tips to Ease Pain:
- Ask for numbing cream before sessions.
- Take breaks if it gets too intense.
- Verify your technician’s training to avoid burns.
Who Is Milan Laser Best For?
Milan Laser shines for people with dark hair and lighter skin, though new lasers are better for darker tones. It’s a go-to for PCOS or trans folks needing lifetime touch-ups due to hormonal regrowth. Got grey or white hair? You might need to explore other options.
Best Candidates:
- Dark hair, any skin tone (with consultation).
- PCOS/trans clients needing ongoing care.
Challenge: Pregnancy or menopause can trigger regrowth.
Scheduling and Accessibility Concerns
Booking with Milan Laser can be tricky. Users report delays or cancellations (Yelp, 2025), and some worry about clinic closures leaving packages unfinished. With 390+ locations, you’ve got options, but planning is key.
Tips for Smooth Booking:
- Choose off-peak times (mornings, weekdays).
- Confirm transfer policies if you move or a clinic closes.
- Use Milan’s online locator for nearby clinics.
Current Trends in Laser Hair Removal
The laser hair removal industry is booming, set to hit $20 billion by 2029 with a 5% growth rate. Milan Laser is riding the wave with AI-driven personalization and upgraded cooling systems. Users are buzzing about trans/PCOS-friendly options and eco-conscious tech.
Trends to Watch:
- AI tailors treatments for better results.
- Demand for inclusive, sustainable laser tech.
- More clinics are popping up nationwide.
FAQs
-
Is Milan Laser worth the cost? It’s pricier ($3K-$15K), but lifetime touch-ups save money compared to $10K+ waxing over the years (Reddit, 2024).
-
Does Milan Laser hurt? It feels like a rubber band snap; numbing cream can ease it.
-
Is Milan Laser safe for dark skin? Newer lasers are safer, but burns are rare; always consult first.
-
How many sessions for results? Expect 7-10 sessions for 95% hair reduction.
-
What if Milan closes my location? Check transfer policies; some face refund issues.
-
Does it work for PCOS hair? Works well with touch-ups; hormonal changes may cause regrowth.
Conclusion
Milan Laser offers a solid shot at saying goodbye to razors and waxing for good, with 95% hair reduction and lifetime touch-ups. Sure, it’s pricey, and the “rubber band snap” isn’t fun, but the results can be life-changing—especially for PCOS or trans folks. Compare it to spas or IPL, book a free consult, and ask about financing to make it work for you. Ready to go hair-free? Visit MilanLaser.com to find a clinic near you and start your journey to smooth skin.
You’ve probably known someone touched by cancer—maybe a family member or a friend. It’s that word that stops conversations and brings up all sorts of worries. What if there was a new tool in the fight, something tailored just for you? That’s where Enteromix comes in, a vaccine from Russia that’s got people talking. Let’s chat about what it is, how it might help, and what we really know so far. I’ll keep it straightforward, like we’re grabbing coffee and breaking it down together.
Key Takeaways
- Enteromix uses mRNA tech to make a custom vaccine that fights your specific tumor, with early tests showing strong results in shrinking cancer growth.
- Made by Russia’s top health teams, it claims perfect safety and effectiveness in small trials, starting with colorectal cancer.
- There’s excitement, but also questions since full data isn’t out yet—it’s free in Russia, but the world is watching closely.
- It stands out by mixing viruses with mRNA for a double punch against tumors, different from other vaccines in the works.
- Looking ahead, it could expand to brain and skin cancers, filling needs in personalized treatments.
What Is Enteromix?
When you’re sitting in a doctor’s office, hearing about a treatment made just for your body. That’s Enteromix in a nutshell. It’s a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine from Russia, put together by the Federal Medical and Biological Agency—FMBA for short—along with the National Medical Research Radiological Centre and the Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology. They announced it at big events like the Eastern Economic Forum in 2025, where folks from over 75 countries heard the news.
Enteromix builds on mRNA technology, the same stuff that helped with COVID vaccines. But here, it’s all about cancer. It gets customized based on your tumor’s RNA profile, making it a Russian cancer treatment that’s got a personal touch. Veronika Skvortsova, head of FMBA, has been front and center sharing updates. If you’re wondering about user intent, most people search for basics like this—wanting to know if it’s real and what it means for them.
How Enteromix Works
Okay, let’s get into the nuts and bolts without making your head spin. Enteromix works by teaching your immune system to spot and attack cancer cells. It uses mRNA to code for antigens from your tumor, basically flags that say “hey, this is the bad guy.” Then, it adds four harmless viruses that go after the tumor directly while revving up your body’s defenses.
Think of it like this: Imagine your tumor is a sneaky intruder in your house. The mRNA part is like installing a smart alarm that recognizes the intruder’s face. The viruses? They’re like guard dogs that chase it out. This combo is what sets Enteromix apart in personalized oncology. No fancy jargon needed—it’s about giving your body the tools to fight back smarter.
One gap in other articles is explaining this interaction clearly. The viruses aren’t dangerous; they’re picked to destroy tumors without hurting you. Early reports say it happens without big side effects, which is huge for anyone who’s been through chemo.
Clinical Trials and Results
Trials are where the rubber meets the road, right? Enteromix has gone through preclinical tests—mostly on animals—and early human trials with about 48 volunteers. Russian officials claim 100% efficacy and safety, meaning it worked for everyone tested without issues.
In these studies, tumors shrank by 60-80%, and some even stopped growing. Survival times got longer too, though exact numbers aren’t public yet. Picture a patient with colorectal cancer seeing their tumor get smaller after shots— that’s the kind of story coming out, based on announcements. Trials kicked off in mid-2025, shared at forums like St. Petersburg’s economic meetup.
But here’s the thing: These are small, early phases. Phase I focuses on safety, not full proof it beats cancer long-term. No peer-reviewed papers out yet, so experts are cautious. If you’re dealing with cancer, this might spark hope, but talk to your doc about joining trials if possible.
Benefits and Efficacy Claims
The upsides sound pretty good. Enteromix aims for targeted immunotherapy, hitting cancer without the rough side effects of old-school treatments. Claims include 100% safety—no serious problems even with repeat doses—and strong tumor-fighting power.
- Shrinks tumors by up to 80%.
- Boosts your immune response for lasting protection.
- Personalized, so it fits your cancer type.
- Potentially fewer hospital visits than chemo.
For folks searching “does Enteromix work?”, early data says yes in tests, but real-world proof is coming. A tip: If you’re worried about side effects, note that patients tolerated it well. To ease pain points like fear of treatment, start by getting your tumor profiled—it’s the first step for something like this.
Challenges and Skepticism
Not everything’s rosy, though. One big hurdle is the lack of full data. Western experts point out that preclinical wins in animals don’t always translate to people. Think about it: We’ve seen hype before with new meds, only for bigger trials to show limits.
Geopolitics play a role too—sanctions might slow global access, and trust issues arise without independent checks. Pain points like cost aren’t a worry in Russia since it’s free, but elsewhere? Unclear. Long-term effects? We don’t know yet.
Here’s a hack: Stay skeptical but informed. Follow updates from places like FMBA or neutral health sites. If facing delays, look into support groups—they help with the emotional side while waiting for approvals.
Comparisons to Alternatives
How does Enteromix stack up? Let’s compare simply. Moderna’s mRNA-4157 is another personalized shot, but it doesn’t use viruses—it’s more about mRNA alone for melanoma and other cancers. Enteromix adds that viral boost for extra immunity kick.
- Enteromix: Free in Russia, focuses on treating existing tumors like colorectal.
- BioNTech’s work: Often preventive or combined with drugs, pricier in the West.
- Traditional chemo: Broad attack, but hits healthy cells too—Enteromix aims narrower.
In the global race, Russia’s entry highlights mRNA’s rise, with over 8,400 folks at the 2025 forum hearing about it. If you’re choosing treatments, weigh personalization—Enteromix fills a gap for tough cancers like glioblastoma.
Availability and Future Prospects
Right now, Enteromix is gearing up for wider use in Russia, free after final nods from the Ministry of Health. Clinical trials wrap up in 2025, but full rollout might take 5-10 years globally due to regs.
Outside Russia? Tricky with politics, but hope for partnerships. Manufacturing needs cold storage, like COVID shots, so logistics matter. Future? Versions for melanoma and brain cancer are in the works.
Tip: If interested in “Enteromix availability outside Russia”, sign up for health alerts. It addresses access pains by being free at home, but watch for export news.
FAQs
What is Enteromix?
Enteromix is Russia’s personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, using tumor RNA and viruses to fight cancer cells safely.
Does Enteromix have 100% efficacy?
Early trials claim 100% efficacy with 60-80% tumor reduction in 48 people, but more data needed for confirmation.
What are Enteromix side effects?
No serious ones reported in tests; it’s tolerated well, even with repeats.
When will Enteromix be available?
Free in Russia post-2025 approval; global wait could be years due to trials and regs.
How does Enteromix compare to other vaccines?
It adds viruses for better immunity than Moderna’s mRNA-4157, targeting colorectal first.
Is Enteromix a cure for cancer?
It treats tumors effectively in early data but isn’t preventive; more for existing cases.
If Enteromix pans out, it could change lives—keep an eye on updates and talk to your doctor about new options. What do you think—exciting or wait-and-see? Share your thoughts below!