It's time to put together everything we've worked on this semester. During the final exams, each student will be asked to conduct a health intake, create a session plan based on the information he/she gathers and work on the instructor for 40 minutes, focusing on either the front or the back of the body. None of this is a surprise, and the class is well prepared. Of course, it doesn't prevent them from looking nervous the moment I bring up the exam details in circle.
We talk about integrating Swedish and deep tissue techniques in a way that demonstrates their understanding of the concepts we have been working on. There are many ways to pass the final exam with flying colors, and tonight my goal is not to teach, but rather to empower and encourage.
Three instructors demonstrate their versions of a 40 minute session, working silently side by side. The point is to present a variety of styles and encourage creativity and individuality. The three of us went through the program at different times, with different teachers and mentors. Each of us has had an opportunity to work in a variety of settings, developing our personal "signature" moves, rhythms and habits. Tonight nothing is held back. We put it all out on the tables, pun intended, and hope that the magic finds its way into the room.
When the demo is over, the student volunteers look relaxed and slightly embarrassed by their "massage faces" as they slowly get dressed and answer questions. Their classmates look relieved. One student comments:"That looked easy and familiar. You didn't do anything I can't do!"
At this point in the semester, believe it or not, that sounds like a great compliment.
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