Seated arm balance

Scale Pose

Tolasana तोलासन

AdvancedApprox. a brief, supported exploration onlyPronunciation: toh-LAH-suh-nuh (approximate English cue)

Scale Pose is a seated arm balance that may involve lifting the body while cross-legged. Do not force a Lotus leg position or use blocks to attempt an unsupported lift without qualified instruction; keep the feet grounded during any preparation.

Line-art illustration of Scale Pose (Tolasana)
Sanskrit nameTolasana
Practice typeSeated arm balance
Suggested levelAdvanced
Practice within a comfortable rangeThis guide is general education, not individualized medical advice. Stop if you experience sharp pain, numbness, dizziness, or breathing difficulty.

What is Scale Pose?

Tolasana is commonly described as a seated arm balance, sometimes paired with Lotus Pose. The full lift places demands on the wrists and shoulders and may involve a leg position that should not be forced.

How should this posture be approached?

Learn the version and exit directly with a qualified teacher. This page does not provide lift-off instructions.

  • Do not force Lotus or press on the knees.
  • Keep the feet grounded during any supported arm-placement practice.
  • Avoid swinging or jumping into a lift.
  • Stop for wrist, shoulder, or knee pain, numbness, or instability.

What is a lower-demand alternative?

Sit comfortably with feet grounded and practice a gentle hand press without lifting the pelvis.

Common question: Is Lotus required?

Some descriptions pair the pose with Lotus, but the knee position must never be forced; use a different posture if it is uncomfortable.

References and further reading

These references provide general context. They do not validate every cue on this page or replace instruction from a qualified teacher.

  1. Yoga: Effectiveness and Safety National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). General context on yoga safety; not pose-specific instruction or endorsement.