Passing a test
I’m a nervous test taker. I take the mental elevator to the top of my brain, pitch a tent, roast some smores and overthink. If the test is
An essay, I’ll write everything I know which is akin to ravenous goats grazing on a new pasture. Too much.
Multiple choice, I’ll rationalize every single answer as correct.
Oral exam – ever hear of diarrhea of the mouth? Enough said.
In 6th grade, I developed a new approach to quell the anxiety of taking tests.
My (not-so-smart) strategy was to complete the test as fast as possible. I’d toss it on the teacher’s desk like it was a hot pan I’d grabbed with bare hands. In my mind, finished was better than showing what I actually knew.
Today, when I take a lesson or a group class – I try to keep my eyes shut to block out what other people are doing so I can listen to myself better. My hips might snap, crackle and pop. My neck might be straining to force a roll up, or perhaps I’m working at my best capacity. It’s why I like to do Pilates without loud music, neon lights, or mirrors. You are only competing with yourself.
I have to open my eyes for certain movements (stupid vertigo) but I try to put on blinders. It is none of my business how other people are doing their movements – because it is my body. My Swan Dive might look completely different than yours. Your Front Leg Pull might be easy whereas I die a little more every time I attempt it.
As a teacher, I want your eyes on your own body. Looking outside of yourself is cheating.
Students often ask the questions in the beginning –
Q: Am I doing this right?
A: Yes. As long as you are keeping yourself safe, the movement is right for you in this moment.
Or…..
Q: Where am I supposed to feel this?
A: I could be snarky and say In your brain, but the real answer is wherever you are feeling the work is the right place. I’m not in your body – you are.
There is no right answer in Pilates. Eve Gentry, a classical Pilates teacher, said, “Pilates is not an exercise. It’s a concept.”
Eyes on your own paper, please.
