In a nutshell: If you want to initiate contact against an opposing player or assist a teammate, you must be moving your feet in a counter-clockwise or lateral direction. If your feet are moving in a clockwise direction you could be charged with a clockwise block (or assist) penalty. If your feet aren't moving at all, you could be charged with a stopped block (or assist) penalty.
Rules discussed: 6.9 DIRECTION OF GAMEPLAY PENALTIES.