Yoga BLOG

Tolangulasana: Finding balance in the scales Tolangulasana is the balance pose. It is one of the balancing poses that casts a fascinating spell just by looking at it. The effect lives up to its name: balance, equilibrium, and balance, both internally and externally, await you. Here you can learn more about this pose full of beauty and grace. The exercise in view In Tolangulasana, the body resembles the shape of a scale. One scale is formed by the upper body and head, which reach diagonally upwards. The other scale is formed by the legs, which are crossed in the lotus position and also lifted from the floor. The pelvis rests on the hands, providing grounding to the mat. The forearms and elbows rest on the floor, providing stability. The effects on body, mind and soul The name "Libra" already speaks to the balance this exercise provides. You feel grounded from below and protected from above. Through the balance this exercise provides, the equilibrium of your limbs, you experience a harmony that carries you through the day. Tolangulasana is also a very effective exercise physically. The muscles of the shoulders and arms are particularly strengthened, as they support you in this pose. By drawing in your stomach and pulling your head toward your chest, your abdominal and chest muscles are also strengthened. By contracting your abdominal muscles, the balance pose also affects your internal organs. The pressure created by contracting your stomach and limiting your legs and upper body gently massages the internal organs. This can be helpful, for example, if you suffer from bloating or constipation. What is the best way to practice the scales? For the Libra pose, you need arm strength and flexibility in your hips and knees. You can initially train both separately from this pose. Arm strength can also be achieved in Downward-Facing Dog or Cobra Pose , for example. You can train hip flexibility in the Swan pose, for example, which is practiced in Yin Yoga. Lotus pose is also a good way to prepare for Tolangulasana! What is the best way to perform Tolangulasana? First, assume the lotus position (Padmasana) . Then, lean back until you're in Matsyasana, or fish pose . Then, align yourself and assume the balance pose, which you hold for a few breaths. When you tuck your chin toward your ribcage in this position, you're in Jalandhara Bhanda . This chin lock is an important practice in pranayama. It's about holding the energy in the important area of the head and neck for a while. You'll find out if you experience any beneficial effects. If not, it's simply not the right time yet, and you can try it again later. Do what feels good! Contraindications for Tolangulasana You should avoid using the scale if you have any injuries or discomfort in the shoulder or arm area. You should also avoid knee or meniscus problems, as the knees are bent sharply. Hip problems are also contraindicated. Furthermore, you should not be pregnant due to the abdominal pressure and pressure on internal organs. In all these cases, you can ask your yoga teachers for advice. They have alternatives that will meet you exactly where you are in your practice and health. This is what defines yoga and makes it a practice for everyone! Image © djvstock / 123rf.com