Tense and tight? Give block therapy a try

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 10/12/2013 (4413 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Have you heard of “block therapy?”

Just over a week ago, I went to an introduction to something called Fluid Isometrics, the Next Generation of Bodywork and Block Therapy.  

You might ask: What is block therapy? As I understand it, it is a way to unblock pain in the body, to get rid of tension and tightness that causes pain.

I have been using my “block buddy” almost every day since I bought it. It is a cedar wood block made to fit the contours of the body. I also received a video with three lessons that show how to use the block. I have only done the first lesson. However, I have been doing it almost every day for a week and a half.

First you place the block under your abdomen and lay on it for three minutes, breathing into the block and slowly exhaling out any pain and discomfort. The block can be placed in many different places on the body, and deep breathing is used to release stress and tightness.

The process of getting rid of stress and tightness is painful. However, it also gets rid of pain. After doing the first lesson once, I found that my neck and shoulders were a lot less painful than the day before and they have continued to get better each day as I used the block.

Last week I went to an hour-and-a-half class on block therapy and found it most beneficial.
Tools needed: your block buddy, a yoga mattress and the video Freedom is Only a Block Away.

I have been in chronic pain for most of my life and have used yoga, other exercises, chiropractic care and massage to keep it under control, however these methods have not rid me of my problems. I see block therapy as a means of helping myself get rid of pain for good.

On her website the founder and director of Fluid Isometrics, Deanna Hansen, says:
“Over time, gravity compresses your body tissue. Left untreated, compressed tissue leads to aches, pains, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Most people chalk this up to aging.

“But it’s not a matter of age. By simply learning the right mindset and self-healing techniques, you can restore life and optimal body function on any part of your body.”

I you have a mind to, you can help yourself be free from pain by using block therapy. I recommend that you give it a try.

For more information go to: www.fluidisometrics.com

Arny Hjaltadottir is a community correspondent for the West End.