Debunking the Myth that Using Blocks is a Cheat

Have you ever felt like using blocks during your movement practice is somehow less than NOT using them? 

Maybe you even thought it was a “cheat”?

 

You’re not alone. I’ve heard from numerous students who share this belief and it’s a persistent myth that echoes again and again. It’s time to set the record straight. Let’s dive into the truth behind using blocks and why they are an essential tool for a holistic movement practice. We’ll uncover not only the practical benefits but also the profound impact on the mind-body connection.

The misconceptions often stem from a narrow view of yoga as a rigid practice, resistant to adaptation. I’m here to challenge that perspective. Yoga is a dynamic journey that accommodates and supports each practitioner’s unique needs. Because you are, uniquely, YOU. Yoga is not likely to ever be “done” as there is no goal to achieve or complete anything like a shape with your body. “Yoga” means to unite and the goal is to transform and calm all the chatter in your mind. Yoga has the power to unite your mind, body, and spirit.

As we explore the multifaceted role of blocks in this ancient discipline, I hope to shine a bright light on the path toward holistic well-being and invite you to embrace the power of intentional movement with open arms—and a block in hand.

Keeping Your Body Safe and Happy

Some people might feel a bit stuck when doing certain movements because of how their bodies move. That’s where yoga blocks come in handy! Sometimes your wrists don’t feel good being flat on the mat. With the help of yoga blocks, doing poses, like downward-facing dog, can greatly lessen the strain on wrists.

Using yoga blocks in downward-facing dog can also change how high or far you put your hands. This makes sure your back stays in a good, straight line and stops your body from feeling too much pressure. This doesn’t just keep you safe from getting hurt; it also helps you feel more connected.

Better Breathing and Connection

Breathing guides your movements and thoughts during yoga. It’s not just about your body; it’s also a way to stay focused and present.

Now, let’s talk about yoga blocks and breathing. In sitting poses, like Easy Pose, putting a block under your hips can help your spine align and let you breathe better. Why? Because it helps your posture and your posture affects your breathing (1). The support of the block under the hips raises the level of the hips and supports the knees by lowering them down on the floor, which takes away the pressure from the lower back. When your spine is in better alignment it’s easy to breathe. 

Brain Power and Blocks

Right at the core of how the brain works with yoga blocks is something called proprioception—it’s like a hidden superpower that keeps your brain healthy. Proprioception isn’t just about moving your body; it’s also about how your brain figures out where your body is in space.

When you engage in activities that activate proprioception, like practicing yoga with blocks, your brain releases special things called neurotrophic factors (2). Think of these as superheroes that help your brain grow, stay strong, and keep your thinking in top shape. Picture doing balancing poses with blocks—your brain gets active, sending messages all around.

Ever heard of a fascinating concept called neuroplasticity? It’s your brain’s incredible ability to change and adapt. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to form new connections and reorganize itself in response to learning and experiences (3). Now, let’s see how yoga blocks play a special role in supporting neuroplasticity. 

These blocks become our brain’s workout tools, offering a diverse range of movements that challenge and engage different parts of the brain. Whether it’s balancing poses, flowing sequences, or creative variations with blocks, each activity becomes a neuroplasticity-friendly movement. By encouraging varied movements, you invite the brain to flex its adaptability, strengthening its connections and contributing to enhanced cognitive function. The versatile use of yoga blocks becomes a key ingredient in promoting the brain’s remarkable ability to change and grow.

Yoga blocks are indispensable companions in your holistic movement journey, offering benefits that extend beyond the mat. They aren’t just props and they’re NOT a cheat; they ensure the safety of your body by promoting accessible alignment and preventing strain. Blocks can support better breathing, a deeper mind-body connection, and your brain health. 

If you’re interested in starting a holistic movement practice then check out this article!

If you’d like to work with me and develop a customized practice that supports holistic movement and brain longevity contact me here!

Sources:

1. Zafar, H., Albarrati, A., Alghadir, A. H., & Iqbal, Z. A. (2018). Effect of Different Head-Neck Postures on the Respiratory Function in Healthy Males. BioMed research international, 2018, 4518269.

2. Skaper SD. Neurotrophic Factors: An Overview. Methods Mol Biol. 2018;1727:1-17.

3. Kaczmarek B. Current views on neuroplasticity: What is new and what is old?. Acta Neuropsychologica. 2020;18(1):1-14.