Hey Roger
You're exactly right in that it's the body that learns what to do. Same as playing a musical instrument or driving a car you don't have to think about what to do. It just takes practise but it's kinda fun when it happens. Sometimes when I'm doing the pattern I'll have to consciously think back to figure out what manoeuvre I just did so I can prepare for the next one. All that's needed then is to know what the next one is and decide exactly where it's going to start, the rest just happens. In squares I'll just wait until it gets to where I want to turn and say NOW to myself.

Many years ago a mate videoed me doing the pattern and at one time he zoomed in on my hand doing the square eight. I had no idea my hand made such complicated movements. The next time I flew I decided to glance at my hand to see it for myself. Here's another tip. DON'T DO THAT!!!!