So my little secret is out … I still get nervous!
Yes, even after years of teaching Pilates and working with so many of you wonderful people, those nerves still like to pop up.
Whether it’s just before I teach a class, organizing something big like my 25 Years Celebration Day earlier in the month, or even meeting new
people for the first time — my heart starts racing, my hands get a little clammy, and I get that familiar butterfly feeling.
But here’s the good news: I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that help me manage those nerves, and I thought I’d share them just in case some of you recognise these feelings. Whether you're facing a big work presentation, gearing up for a social event, or even walking into a room of family members (we all know that can sometimes feel like a
challenge!), I hope these tips will come in useful to help ease those anxious moments.
1. Visualize Success!
Before I teach a class or step into something that makes me nervous, I try to picture everything going well. I imagine myself smiling, feeling calm, and everything flowing just how I want it to. When I was planning the Celebration Day for example, I’d sit down and close my eyes, imagining people arriving, enjoying
themselves, and leaving with huge smiles on their faces. It didn’t stop all the nerves, but it certainly helped calm that anxious energy a bit!
Tip for you: Try visualizing your own success. See yourself being amazing in the meeting or walking into a room feeling totally at ease. It’s like giving yourself a little mental head start!
2. Breathe... but Really Breathe
I know, I can sound like a
broken record when it comes to breathing (I'm a Pilates teacher, so what do you expect?), but it really can be magical! When I start to feel those nerves bubbling up, I go back to my breath. Deep belly breaths, in through the nose, out through the mouth—it helps to reset my whole system.
I always say, “If you’re ever in doubt, just breathe it out.” It works wonders, trust me!
3. Laugh it Off
I’ve always found
that a bit of humour really helps me break through the anxiety. I’ll crack a joke to myself (or sometimes out loud with varied success 😆) or try to see the lighter side of the situation. Laughter instantly takes the edge off, and it stops me from getting too caught up in the “what ifs” swirling around in my head.
When I’m feeling especially nervous before meeting someone new or stepping into a big event, I try to lighten the mood. Sometimes, it’s even just telling myself,
“Well, what’s the worst that could happen? Trip over a Pilates mat (which I have done) — Everyone has a laugh, and we move on!”
4. Get Out of Your Own Head
Anxiety can make everything feel very “me, me, me,” right? I know when I’m in the thick of it, my brain is going wild with “What will they think? Will this go okay?” One thing that helps is shifting my focus away from me and onto other people. I remind myself,
and sometimes Keith will remind me “Jane, it’s not all about you!” 😊
On the Celebration Day, for example, instead of stressing about how it would all come together, I started thinking about everyone who would be there — the people I was excited to see, the fun I wanted everyone to have, and the connections and reconnections we’d make. Focusing on others takes the pressure off you and brings back that human connection.
5. Turn Anxiety into Excitement
This one can be the one that makes the difference. You know that feeling when your heart is pounding, and you’re jittery? Well it’s exactly the same feeling you get when you’re excited! So, instead of telling yourself you’re nervous, try saying, “I’m excited!” I know it’s just words, but it does work.
Before I teach a class, especially if it’s with new faces, I’ll say to myself, “Okay, I’m excited to meet these people! I’m
excited to share Pilates with them!” It gives the nerves a little makeover, and suddenly, the energy feels a lot more positive.
6. Give Yourself a Post-Challenge Treat
You all know that I am always talking about self-care! If you know something big is coming up that makes you anxious, plan something lovely for yourself afterward. It could be as simple as curling up with a cuppa, taking a walk, buying yourself some fresh
flowers, or having a soak in the bath.
Knowing you’ve got a reward waiting for you at the end can give you something comforting to focus on during those nerve-racking moments.
So, there you have it — my personal playbook for handling nerves when they decide to gatecrash my plans! Whether you're gearing up for a big performance, meeting new people, or dealing with an anxious situation, remember that those feelings are completely normal. And more
importantly, you’ve got the tools to handle it. We’ve all got a little jester inside us to lighten the mood when things feel heavy, and the nurturing side to remind us that we’re doing just fine — nerves and all.
Have a lovely week everyone — just keep looking, moving, and feeling good.
With love
Jane 🧡🧡🧡
