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Block Therapy™ is a self bodywork practice that focuses on dissolving adhesions in our fascia or connective tissue using a uniquely designed bamboo wood block. The block is placed in various positions on and under the body for a minimum of 3 minutes. During this time we focus on our breath.
Therapy…Working into deep tissue we can access the root of chronic issues and enhance our body’s ability to heal. First we create space, then inflate space, and lastly maintain space.
Exercise…Isometric holds, stretching and low impact movements help to strengthen underactive muscles and our postural foundation.
Meditation…Practicing diaphragmatic breathing and focusing on our body sensations keeps us in the present moment and lets us tune into ourselves.
More about your instructor LeeAnne
Having spent the last 20+ years in the corporate fashion industry my body and mind have been slowly letting me know it is time for a change. I went to my first Block Therapy™ class about 10 years ago. I thought it was fantastic, at that time I was “too busy” to take on another practice and would get back to it “later”. After years of traveling, jetlag, hauling heaving bags, working day and night, sitting at a computer for hours, and all the stress most of us know too well…it was time for that change.
Throughout the years I have practiced many different modalities like weight training, running, yoga, HIT, crossfit, which all have their benefits however I wasn’t listening to my body. I’d developed many subtle injuries that manifested into chronic pain. I spent time in physical therapy, have the best chiropractor, massage therapist, and did acupuncture. I believe all these are integral to body wellness and was looking for a way to extend the benefits into a daily practice. Block Therapy™ has embodied healing for me in an entirely new way and it’s been incredibly effective for me, it compliments all other wellness modalities. It is not only restorative, it has increased my lung capacity, strengthened muscles I’ve ignored my entire life, taught me correct posture, and given my mind meditation space. Blocking & fascia stretch has become my daily practice and lifestyle, and I want to share it with others who can also find healing, balance, and restore their wellness.
In working with Block Therapy™, I found the strengthening component kept my body in my new alignment, I was finally not circling back to the same chronic injury cycle. I decided to make a permanent change in my career to teach Block Therapy™ and proper strengthening. This brought me to certify as a Fascia Fitness Trainer with the Fascia Training Academy to deepen my knowledge and skill working with connective tissue. I’m also a Personal Trainer (CPT) specializing in Restorative Exercise Strategies (CES). I took my certifications with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), a leader in the fitness industry with techniques based on scientific evidence. The combination of these modalities work well together and have given me the missing link to my wellness I was searching for.
Originally from Canada I have lived in Manhattan for over 16 years. I love New York City! I am thrilled to be the first Certified Block Therapy™ instructor & Fascia Fitness Trainer in New York and also bring a unique blend of training to clients.
“LeeAnne is an excellent instructor; knowledgeable, patient and supportive. She works with her clients to find the best program for their needs. While leading her class, she takes time to educate you on the physical body and the effect each movement will have on it. You can see she is genuinely interested in helping clients improve their quality of life.”
Jennifer
FAQ’s
What is fascia?
Fascia is a web of connective tissue that encompasses, connects and holds all of our body structures in place…organs, muscles, bones, circulatory system. Over time, tissue can become compressed and adhesions develop causing loss of mobility, chronic pain, even disease. Block Therapy™ brings oxygen and blood flow to fascia tissue dissolving restrictions and facilitate a fluid environment inside the body.
What is isometric exercise?
A low impact technique that builds strength by holding a muscle contraction for an extended period of time. This technique is used so we can stabilize muscles around joints to function properly and support a healthy full range of motion.
What is diaphragmatic breathing and why do we use it?
The diaphragm is a muscle at the base of our chest that we should use to breathe, also called “belly breathing”. Most of us use our upper chest and neck muscles to breathe which can cause many health issues:
tension in the neck & jaw, increased anxiety, poor sleep, fatigue, slower metabolism, weight gain.
When we use the diaphragm we use our entire lung capacity and have many benefits:
allows more oxygen absorption into the body, creates a calming effect connecting to the parasympathetic nervous system , aids in digestion, slows heart rate, and engages our intrinsic core muscles strengthening posture
Can anyone do Block Therapy?
As with any body work practice, you should always consult your doctor and have clearance to perform exercise. The following conditions should be discussed with your certified instructor prior to practicing Block Therapy™:
Pregnancy: The belly and surrounded areas should be avoided, it is safe on extremities like face, arms, legs unless swelling is present.
Surgical Mesh: If you have surgical mesh in your tissue we use with caution on those areas as the release in tissue tension can cause irritation.
Spinal Fusion: Block Therapy™ increases flexibility and range of motion and can be beneficial for people with a fused spine after discussion and clearance with your medical professional.
Advanced Osteoporosis: Due to the delicate nature of the skeletal system Block Therapy™ would not be suitable for those with this condition in the advanced stage.
Serious Medical Conditions: A consultation with your certified instructor can determine if Block Therapy™ is suitable with your current health status. We work with your health professional to ensure the practice is safe and beneficial on a case by case basis.
Have more questions?
We are here to help, send us an email and we will respond within 24 hours.
Why wood?
Wood is a similar density as bone, it allows a deeper sinking into tissue getting to the root of our issues. Other tools that are not the Block Therapy™ official block cannot be used for classes.
Can I get injured doing Block Therapy™?
The block was specifically designed for its size and rounded edges so it is safe to use along with the practice and guidance of a certified instructor. That being said we are “searching for pain” in Block Therapy™ so we can unravel fascial adhesions and dissolve chronic pain at its root. We use the rule “your breath is your guide”, if at anytime you feel you cannot maintain relaxed breath we need to regress. The pain we are searching for is a “hurt so good” feeling, similar to getting a deep tissue massage.
Can I lose weight doing Block Therapy™?
While many people have reported weight loss with a regular practice of Block Therapy™ and alignment training, every person is different in their genetics, lifestyle, and stages of life. Our focus is optimizing health of our tissues and cells, realigning the body and strengthening to have functional movement while reducing the risk of injury and pain.