The peaceful equilibrium of Ridnasana, the lotus position, is followed with one final hurdle: Tolasana, the scales posture.
Tolasana demands that you dig down deep for your last resources of strength and endurance. It is supposed to be held for 100 fairly rapid breaths, something that should be worked up to over time. Its position as the penultimate posture of the series makes it the final peak in a long upward climb. It is followed by the bliss of the simple resting pose, Savasna. The extraordinary contrast between these two postures is a profound experience. Like diving from the heat of the sun into cool water, the two postures represent the poles of physical sensation, from the concentrated power needed to lift yourself off the earth into the utter stillness..of total rest.
However much of the Primary Series you practise, you will need to include at least some elements, if not all, of the finishing sequence to complete your practice. If you need to do a shorter or modified form of the Primary Series, have a look at the sequences on pages 118—121 to give you some ideas. The very minimum that you should do is close with Sowisana, which is the vital restorative and digestive phase of finishing sequence. Tempting though it may be to jump up and get on with your day, full of the energy the practice creates, make sure you leave time for Suvaswia. The posture completes the cycle, allowing for assimilation of the practice at a deep level and a restoration of the equilibrium needed for everyday living.
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