Emphasis in body language
You can amplify the words you emphasize with your body. In fact you probably do without noticing it. A slight nodding of the head. The beating of an outstretched finger. The thrust of an entire body.
TV presenters are interesting in how they create emphasis. They know that only their heads are in view, so they twist, turn and nod their heads far more than you or I.
When emphasizing in two places, with the voice and with the body, beware of mixed messages. This includes emphasis from one whilst the other remains flat or stationary. If I say 'That's really great!" whilst standing rigidly to attention, you may be forgiven for concluding that I was not that enthused.
Basic rules
The basic rules of using your body to emphasize are to synchronize and exaggerate:
Synchronize
To make emphasis count, it must all act together. Words and intonation, as well as all the bits of your body you are using to support the emphasis. Imagine it as playing in an orchestra - you need to get the whole lot playing in tune, otherwise all you have is a cacophony that communicates very little.
Exaggerate
When you want to emphasize, do thing bigger. Move such as an arm further and faster. Move the whole body with the arm. Include facial expressions.
Big emphasis
Use big emphasis when you want to overtly show your energy and passion about a point. You are not trying to hide your light under a bushel here: the goal is to overpower the other person with the force of your point.
Your words should also synchronize with big emphasis, using power words, spoken more loudly with energy and passion. The other person should be under no illusion: this is a very important point.
Big emphasis is particularly useful if you are on a stage and need to communicate with those in the back.
Do remember also that it can be intimidating, which is more about coercion, where although you may gain short-term conformance, you may also get longer-term hatred.
Big movements
For big emphasis, make big movements.
* Exaggerate arm movements, making wide sweeps.
* Nod or shake your head.
* Point with an outstretched arm.
* Move about the stage.
* Create contrast, sometimes not moving, then moving suddenly.
Simulated aggression
Big emphasis often (but not always) uses simulated aggression, such as:
* Beating of an arm down in time with the points you are making.
* Pounding of a fist on the table or into palm of the other hand.
* Throwing the body forward (not actually, though - this is simulation, so use more of an 'exaggerated lean').
* Stamping of a foot.
* Exaggerated facial expressions.
* Sudden movement.
Repetition
Repeated moves are like blows to the body. A boxer can win with a big knockout blow or, more likely, with repeated blows that wear the other person down. The same effect is created with big emphasis.
Rhythmic action also taps into primitive senses and can create an almost hypnotic effect.
Subtle emphasis
Big emphasis is not always appropriate and, done well, subtle emphasis can be a far more effective approach, especially in one-to-one situations. To do this well, it often helps if you are in a relaxed frame of mind and 'think small and delicate' as if big emphasis would hurt or damage the other person.
Small movements
For subtle emphasis with your body, do movement in the small, including:
* Turns of the wrist.
* Finger movement.
* Slight inclines of the head.
* Subtle facial expressions (the face is well-built for doing this).
Shaped movement
You can also do subtlety through the static shapes into which you put your body, for example:
* Cupped palm, as if holding something delicate.
* Rounded arms, as if embracing the other person.
* Pointing feet, legs or arms in a particular direction.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Body language caveat
Body language caveat
A lot has been written about body language and how it can be used to persuade and influence other people. Although there is truth in this, there is also a warning that needs to be observed if you are to be truly effective in your communications.
Too many muscles
How many muscles are there in the human body? Before you dive into trying to control what your body is doing and communicating, consider this: there are more than 600 muscles in the human body.
The implication for managing your own body language is that you will consciously have to manage all of these muscles. You will also have to do this against the wishes of your subconscious, which will be trying to send its own messages. Oh yes, and you will have to do it whilst thinking about what you are saying, the words you are using the intonation of your voice, and so on.
The most important: the face
Worse again, consider the face, where you have about 90 muscles, 30 of which are there purely to express emotion. And where is the person you are talking with looking? Mostly at your face. And guess what: they are also likely to be very good at reading, at least to some extent, what you are feeling.
You are a communication machine
The bottom line of all this is that you cannot control all of your muscles, and especially the muscles in your face, which you cannot hide. You cannot avoid sending a constant stream of signals about what you are feeling and thinking.
Mixed messages
If you try too hard to control your body, the result is that all you send is mixed messages. One part of your body says one thing whilst another says something else, whilst you voice may also be leaking different messages. The result is will that be that people will trust you less, not more.
So why bother?
So what is all this about body language? Why both at all with it? If all we can do is make it worse, why all the talk?
Manage it carefully
The answer is that although you can very easily send mixed messages, you can change your body language effectively - but only if you are very careful and don't try to over-do it.
You can use the body to nudge and exaggerate what you are already thinking, but you can't send completely contrary message. Just try to use friendly body language towards someone you really detest and you'll quickly find these limits.
Read your own thoughts
What understanding body language is very good for, is to read your own thoughts, to see what your subconscious is saying. If you find yourself keep on rubbing your face or crossing your arms in a conversation, think: are you comfortable? Is there something about the other person that is bothering you?
Do in internally
The very best way of controlling your own body language is by changing your own mind to reflect what your body should be saying. If you are in agreement with yourself, your body will naturally communicate agreeable messages. You can read the content of this website and apply it to yourself. Think about your beliefs, values and needs. What is driving you? What inner thoughts would lead you to become a better person?
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
A lot has been written about body language and how it can be used to persuade and influence other people. Although there is truth in this, there is also a warning that needs to be observed if you are to be truly effective in your communications.
Too many muscles
How many muscles are there in the human body? Before you dive into trying to control what your body is doing and communicating, consider this: there are more than 600 muscles in the human body.
The implication for managing your own body language is that you will consciously have to manage all of these muscles. You will also have to do this against the wishes of your subconscious, which will be trying to send its own messages. Oh yes, and you will have to do it whilst thinking about what you are saying, the words you are using the intonation of your voice, and so on.
The most important: the face
Worse again, consider the face, where you have about 90 muscles, 30 of which are there purely to express emotion. And where is the person you are talking with looking? Mostly at your face. And guess what: they are also likely to be very good at reading, at least to some extent, what you are feeling.
You are a communication machine
The bottom line of all this is that you cannot control all of your muscles, and especially the muscles in your face, which you cannot hide. You cannot avoid sending a constant stream of signals about what you are feeling and thinking.
Mixed messages
If you try too hard to control your body, the result is that all you send is mixed messages. One part of your body says one thing whilst another says something else, whilst you voice may also be leaking different messages. The result is will that be that people will trust you less, not more.
So why bother?
So what is all this about body language? Why both at all with it? If all we can do is make it worse, why all the talk?
Manage it carefully
The answer is that although you can very easily send mixed messages, you can change your body language effectively - but only if you are very careful and don't try to over-do it.
You can use the body to nudge and exaggerate what you are already thinking, but you can't send completely contrary message. Just try to use friendly body language towards someone you really detest and you'll quickly find these limits.
Read your own thoughts
What understanding body language is very good for, is to read your own thoughts, to see what your subconscious is saying. If you find yourself keep on rubbing your face or crossing your arms in a conversation, think: are you comfortable? Is there something about the other person that is bothering you?
Do in internally
The very best way of controlling your own body language is by changing your own mind to reflect what your body should be saying. If you are in agreement with yourself, your body will naturally communicate agreeable messages. You can read the content of this website and apply it to yourself. Think about your beliefs, values and needs. What is driving you? What inner thoughts would lead you to become a better person?
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Touching
Touching
Touching is one of the most powerful forms of non-verbal communication and needs to be managed with care.
Ritual
Touching is a common part of many rituals, in which the action often has a long-forgotten symbolic meaning.
Greeting and departure
By far the most common touching ritual is greeting and departure, although the actual form of the ritual changes across countries. This may include shaking hands, hugging, kissing, rubbing noses and other touching.
When hold out your hand, you show that are not holding a weapon. When you allow others to touch you, you are indicating a level of trust.
Dominance
Men on men
Men have a particular concern about status, in particular relative to one another. This is a primitive tribal game and is played out every day around the world.
When one man touches another, even if it appears that it is related to sympathy, then there is a game of status and power being played out.
Shaking hands
Shaking hands, although basically a ritual, may also contain significant acts of domination.
The 'power grip' grabs the other person's hand firmly and shakes vigorously. The 'vice grip' does this to extreme, intending to demonstrate strength by causing pain.
The 'hand on top' method offers the palm down, using the principle that being above the other person in any way symbolizes superiority. This is often combined with an elbow grab.
There is also domination in the duration of the shake. If you do not let go within the prescribed period, then you are taking control. Even for a second, this can send subtle power signals.
Back and arm touching
Patting on the back and touching the arm may be an act of sympathy and friendship. It can also be an act of dominance. Again, between men and particularly in situations of power, this is a signal of who is in charge.
Countering dominance
The simplest way of countering dominant touching is to do it back to the other person. This can be very surprising for them, especially if you seem not to be subdued and even may be smiling at their surprise.
If they pat you on the back or arm, you can do it to them with the other hand, put you hand on top or slide your arm underneath and pat their side (if they are on top, this shows that you have got beneath their guard). You can even turn the whole thing into a hug.
Sympathy
Touching is often used as a form of demonstrating sympathy, particularly between women. Men also may use it, but it is easily confused with acts of power (it may also be mistaken for homosexual acts of intimacy).
Distant sympathy
Showing sympathy when you are not very close to the other person typically is done with more distant and brief touching of the back, shoulder or arm.
Even a short touch can be very comforting and is effective when you fear that they may misunderstand the touch as dominance or intimacy.
Close sympathy
Closer forms of sympathetic touching are closer to intimate actions, such as putting your arm around the other person or hugging them as they cry or touching the arm for more prolonged periods.
This is more common amongst women, partners or very close friends.
Intimacy
Friends
Friends tend to greet each other with more intimate touching, such a hugging or even kissing (although this may vary with culture).
Friendship touching will also vary with the intensity and type of friendship. Some people you just touch more and some do not like it. In a group of friends, one tactile person may convert the whole group to a more touchy culture.
Families
Families touch one another more, in particular parents and children, where as well as sympathetic touching there may be guidance and others forms of touch.
As with friends (and lovers), families touch each other more partly because they trust one another and also to sustain bonding and trust.
Lovers
Partners and lovers touch each other a great deal. Intimacy does not have to be all sexual and is often just because it feels good. This may include holding hands, arms around each other, necking, nuzzling and kissing.
And of course there is also sexual touching, done with the deliberate intent of arousal and gratification.
Bonding
Gueguen and Fischer-Lokou (2003) showed how touching another person during a conversation influenced the other person very strongly. After touching a stranger when asking directions, turning away and 'dropping' some diskettes, the touched subject would stoop to help pick them up 90% of the time, as opposed to 63% of the time when they were not touched.
Touch creates a bonding effect and this experiment shows how powerful this is in turning a stranger to offer proactive support. Of course asking them for directions also had an effect, but the increase is significantly more with just a light touch. This bonding effect is clearly significant for other sections above and constitutes a significant method for influencing others.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Touching is one of the most powerful forms of non-verbal communication and needs to be managed with care.
Ritual
Touching is a common part of many rituals, in which the action often has a long-forgotten symbolic meaning.
Greeting and departure
By far the most common touching ritual is greeting and departure, although the actual form of the ritual changes across countries. This may include shaking hands, hugging, kissing, rubbing noses and other touching.
When hold out your hand, you show that are not holding a weapon. When you allow others to touch you, you are indicating a level of trust.
Dominance
Men on men
Men have a particular concern about status, in particular relative to one another. This is a primitive tribal game and is played out every day around the world.
When one man touches another, even if it appears that it is related to sympathy, then there is a game of status and power being played out.
Shaking hands
Shaking hands, although basically a ritual, may also contain significant acts of domination.
The 'power grip' grabs the other person's hand firmly and shakes vigorously. The 'vice grip' does this to extreme, intending to demonstrate strength by causing pain.
The 'hand on top' method offers the palm down, using the principle that being above the other person in any way symbolizes superiority. This is often combined with an elbow grab.
There is also domination in the duration of the shake. If you do not let go within the prescribed period, then you are taking control. Even for a second, this can send subtle power signals.
Back and arm touching
Patting on the back and touching the arm may be an act of sympathy and friendship. It can also be an act of dominance. Again, between men and particularly in situations of power, this is a signal of who is in charge.
Countering dominance
The simplest way of countering dominant touching is to do it back to the other person. This can be very surprising for them, especially if you seem not to be subdued and even may be smiling at their surprise.
If they pat you on the back or arm, you can do it to them with the other hand, put you hand on top or slide your arm underneath and pat their side (if they are on top, this shows that you have got beneath their guard). You can even turn the whole thing into a hug.
Sympathy
Touching is often used as a form of demonstrating sympathy, particularly between women. Men also may use it, but it is easily confused with acts of power (it may also be mistaken for homosexual acts of intimacy).
Distant sympathy
Showing sympathy when you are not very close to the other person typically is done with more distant and brief touching of the back, shoulder or arm.
Even a short touch can be very comforting and is effective when you fear that they may misunderstand the touch as dominance or intimacy.
Close sympathy
Closer forms of sympathetic touching are closer to intimate actions, such as putting your arm around the other person or hugging them as they cry or touching the arm for more prolonged periods.
This is more common amongst women, partners or very close friends.
Intimacy
Friends
Friends tend to greet each other with more intimate touching, such a hugging or even kissing (although this may vary with culture).
Friendship touching will also vary with the intensity and type of friendship. Some people you just touch more and some do not like it. In a group of friends, one tactile person may convert the whole group to a more touchy culture.
Families
Families touch one another more, in particular parents and children, where as well as sympathetic touching there may be guidance and others forms of touch.
As with friends (and lovers), families touch each other more partly because they trust one another and also to sustain bonding and trust.
Lovers
Partners and lovers touch each other a great deal. Intimacy does not have to be all sexual and is often just because it feels good. This may include holding hands, arms around each other, necking, nuzzling and kissing.
And of course there is also sexual touching, done with the deliberate intent of arousal and gratification.
Bonding
Gueguen and Fischer-Lokou (2003) showed how touching another person during a conversation influenced the other person very strongly. After touching a stranger when asking directions, turning away and 'dropping' some diskettes, the touched subject would stoop to help pick them up 90% of the time, as opposed to 63% of the time when they were not touched.
Touch creates a bonding effect and this experiment shows how powerful this is in turning a stranger to offer proactive support. Of course asking them for directions also had an effect, but the increase is significantly more with just a light touch. This bonding effect is clearly significant for other sections above and constitutes a significant method for influencing others.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Submissive body language
Submissive body language
A significant cluster of body movements is used to signal fear and readiness to submit.
This is common in animals, where fighting (that could terminally harm each animal) is avoided by displays of aggression or submission.
Body positions
The body in fearful stances is generally closed, and may also include additional aspects.
Making the body small
Hunching inwards reduces the size of the body, limiting the potential of being hit and protecting vital areas. In a natural setting, being small may also reduce the chance of being seen. Arms are held in. A crouching position may be taken, even slightly with knees slightly bent. This is approaching the curled-up regressive fetal position.
Motionlessness
By staying still, the chance of being seen is, in a natural setting, reduced (which is why many animals freeze when they are fearful). When exposed, it also reduces the chance of accidentally sending signals which may be interpreted as being aggressive. It also signals submission in that you are ready to be struck and will not fight back.
Head
Head down
Turning the chin and head down protects the vulnerable neck from attack. It also avoids looking the other person in the face (staring is a sign of aggression).
Eyes
Widening the eyes makes you look more like a baby and hence signals your vulnerability.
Looking attentively at the other person shows that you are hanging on their every word.
Mouth
Submissive people smile more at dominant people, but they often smile with the mouth but not with the eyes.
Gestures
Submissive gestures
There are many gestures that have the primary intent of showing submission and that there is no intent to harm the other person. Hands out and palms up shows that no weapons are held and is a common pleading gesture.
Other gestures and actions that indicate tension may indicate the state of fear. This includes hair tugging, face touching and jerky movement. There may also be signs such as whiteness of the face and sweating.
Small gestures
When the submissive person must move, then small gestures are often made. These may be slow to avoid alarming the other person, although tension may make them jerky.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
A significant cluster of body movements is used to signal fear and readiness to submit.
This is common in animals, where fighting (that could terminally harm each animal) is avoided by displays of aggression or submission.
Body positions
The body in fearful stances is generally closed, and may also include additional aspects.
Making the body small
Hunching inwards reduces the size of the body, limiting the potential of being hit and protecting vital areas. In a natural setting, being small may also reduce the chance of being seen. Arms are held in. A crouching position may be taken, even slightly with knees slightly bent. This is approaching the curled-up regressive fetal position.
Motionlessness
By staying still, the chance of being seen is, in a natural setting, reduced (which is why many animals freeze when they are fearful). When exposed, it also reduces the chance of accidentally sending signals which may be interpreted as being aggressive. It also signals submission in that you are ready to be struck and will not fight back.
Head
Head down
Turning the chin and head down protects the vulnerable neck from attack. It also avoids looking the other person in the face (staring is a sign of aggression).
Eyes
Widening the eyes makes you look more like a baby and hence signals your vulnerability.
Looking attentively at the other person shows that you are hanging on their every word.
Mouth
Submissive people smile more at dominant people, but they often smile with the mouth but not with the eyes.
Gestures
Submissive gestures
There are many gestures that have the primary intent of showing submission and that there is no intent to harm the other person. Hands out and palms up shows that no weapons are held and is a common pleading gesture.
Other gestures and actions that indicate tension may indicate the state of fear. This includes hair tugging, face touching and jerky movement. There may also be signs such as whiteness of the face and sweating.
Small gestures
When the submissive person must move, then small gestures are often made. These may be slow to avoid alarming the other person, although tension may make them jerky.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Romantic body language
Romantic body language
A significant cluster of body movements has to do with romance, signaling to a person of the opposite sex that you are interested in partnering with them.
From afar
From afar, the first task of body language is to signal interest (and then to watch for reciprocal body language).
Eyes
The eyes do much signaling. Initially and from a distance, a person may look at you for slightly longer than normal, then look away, then look back up at you, again for a longer period.
Preening
There are many preening gestures. What you are basically saying with this is 'I am making myself look good for you'. This includes tossing of the head, brushing hair with hand, polishing spectacles and brushing clothes.
Enacting
Remote romantic language may also include enactment of sexually stimulating activities, for example caressing oneself, for example stroking arms, leg or face. This may either say 'I would like to stroke you like this' or 'I would like you to stroke me like this'.
Similarly, the person (women in particular) may lick and purse their lips into a kiss shape and leave their mouth slightly open in imitation of sexual readiness.
Objects held may be also used in enactment displays, including cigarettes and wine glasses, for example rolling and stroking them.
Displaying
Attractive parts of the body may be exposed, thrust forward, wiggled or otherwise highlighted. For women this includes breasts, neck, bottom and legs. For men it includes a muscular torso, arms or legs, and particularly the crotch (note that women seldom do this).
Faking often happens. Pressing together muscles gives the impression of higher muscle tone. Pressing together and lifting breasts (sometimes helped with an appropriate brassiere) makes them look firmer and larger. Holding out shoulders and arms makes the body look bigger. Holding in the abdomen gives the impression of a firm tummy.
This is often playing to primitive needs. Women show that they are healthy and that they are able to bear and feed the man's child. The man shows he is virile, strong and able to protect the woman and her child.
Leaning
Leaning your body towards another person says 'I would like to be closer to you'. It also tests to see whether they lean towards you or away from you. It can start with the head with a simple tilt or may use the entire torso. This may be coupled with listening intently to what they say, again showing particular interest in them.
Pointing
A person who is interested in you may subtly point at you with a foot, knee, arm or head. It is effectively a signal that says 'I would like to go in this direction'.
Other displays
Other forms of more distant display that are intended to attract include:
* Sensual or dramatic dancing (too dramatic, and it can have the opposite effect).
* Crotch display, where (particularly male) legs are held apart to show off genitalia.
* Faked interest in others, to invoke envy or hurry a closer engagement.
* Nodding gently, as if to say 'Yes, I do like you.'
Up close
When you are close to the other person, the body language progressively gets more intimate until one person signals 'enough'.
Close in and personal
In moving closer to the other person, you move from social space into their personal body space, showing how you would like to get even closer to them, perhaps holding them and more...
Standing square-on to them also blocks anyone else from joining the conversation and signals to others to stay away.
Copying
Imitating the person in some way shows 'I am like you'. This can range from a similar body position to using the same gestures and language.
Lovers' gaze
When you are standing close to them, you will holding each other's gaze for longer and longer periods before looking away. You many also use what are called 'doe eyes' or 'bedroom eyes', which are often slightly moist and with the head inclined slightly down.
Where the eyes go is important. Looking at lips means 'I want to kiss'. Looking at other parts of the body may mean 'I want to touch'.
A very subtle signal that few realize is that the eyes will dilate such that the dark pupils get much bigger (this is one reason why dark-eyed people can seem attractive).
Touching
Touching signals even closer intimacy. It may start with 'accidental' brushing, followed by touching of 'safe' parts of the body such as arms or back.
Caressing is gentle stroking that may start in the safer regions and then stray (especially when alone) to sexual regions.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
A significant cluster of body movements has to do with romance, signaling to a person of the opposite sex that you are interested in partnering with them.
From afar
From afar, the first task of body language is to signal interest (and then to watch for reciprocal body language).
Eyes
The eyes do much signaling. Initially and from a distance, a person may look at you for slightly longer than normal, then look away, then look back up at you, again for a longer period.
Preening
There are many preening gestures. What you are basically saying with this is 'I am making myself look good for you'. This includes tossing of the head, brushing hair with hand, polishing spectacles and brushing clothes.
Enacting
Remote romantic language may also include enactment of sexually stimulating activities, for example caressing oneself, for example stroking arms, leg or face. This may either say 'I would like to stroke you like this' or 'I would like you to stroke me like this'.
Similarly, the person (women in particular) may lick and purse their lips into a kiss shape and leave their mouth slightly open in imitation of sexual readiness.
Objects held may be also used in enactment displays, including cigarettes and wine glasses, for example rolling and stroking them.
Displaying
Attractive parts of the body may be exposed, thrust forward, wiggled or otherwise highlighted. For women this includes breasts, neck, bottom and legs. For men it includes a muscular torso, arms or legs, and particularly the crotch (note that women seldom do this).
Faking often happens. Pressing together muscles gives the impression of higher muscle tone. Pressing together and lifting breasts (sometimes helped with an appropriate brassiere) makes them look firmer and larger. Holding out shoulders and arms makes the body look bigger. Holding in the abdomen gives the impression of a firm tummy.
This is often playing to primitive needs. Women show that they are healthy and that they are able to bear and feed the man's child. The man shows he is virile, strong and able to protect the woman and her child.
Leaning
Leaning your body towards another person says 'I would like to be closer to you'. It also tests to see whether they lean towards you or away from you. It can start with the head with a simple tilt or may use the entire torso. This may be coupled with listening intently to what they say, again showing particular interest in them.
Pointing
A person who is interested in you may subtly point at you with a foot, knee, arm or head. It is effectively a signal that says 'I would like to go in this direction'.
Other displays
Other forms of more distant display that are intended to attract include:
* Sensual or dramatic dancing (too dramatic, and it can have the opposite effect).
* Crotch display, where (particularly male) legs are held apart to show off genitalia.
* Faked interest in others, to invoke envy or hurry a closer engagement.
* Nodding gently, as if to say 'Yes, I do like you.'
Up close
When you are close to the other person, the body language progressively gets more intimate until one person signals 'enough'.
Close in and personal
In moving closer to the other person, you move from social space into their personal body space, showing how you would like to get even closer to them, perhaps holding them and more...
Standing square-on to them also blocks anyone else from joining the conversation and signals to others to stay away.
Copying
Imitating the person in some way shows 'I am like you'. This can range from a similar body position to using the same gestures and language.
Lovers' gaze
When you are standing close to them, you will holding each other's gaze for longer and longer periods before looking away. You many also use what are called 'doe eyes' or 'bedroom eyes', which are often slightly moist and with the head inclined slightly down.
Where the eyes go is important. Looking at lips means 'I want to kiss'. Looking at other parts of the body may mean 'I want to touch'.
A very subtle signal that few realize is that the eyes will dilate such that the dark pupils get much bigger (this is one reason why dark-eyed people can seem attractive).
Touching
Touching signals even closer intimacy. It may start with 'accidental' brushing, followed by touching of 'safe' parts of the body such as arms or back.
Caressing is gentle stroking that may start in the safer regions and then stray (especially when alone) to sexual regions.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Relaxed body language
Relaxed body language
A relaxed body generally lacks tension. Muscles are relaxed and loose. Movement is fluid and the person seems happy or unconcerned overall.
Relaxed body
Torso
The torso may sag slightly to one side (but not be held there by irregular tension). It may also be well-balanced, with the shoulders balanced above the pelvis. It does not curl up with fear, though it may curl up in a restful pose.
Shoulders are not tensed up and generally hang loosely down.
Breathing
Breathing is steady and slower. This may make the voice a little lower than usual.
Color
The color of the skin is generally normal, being neither reddened by anger or embarrassment, nor pale with fear. There are no unusual patches, for example on the neck or cheeks.
Relaxed limbs
Relaxed limbs hang loosely. They do not twitch and seldom cross one another, unless as a position of comfort.
Arms
Tense arms are rigid and may be held close to the body. They may move in suddenly, a staccato manner. Relaxed arms either hang loosely or move smoothly.
If arms cross one another, they hand loosely. Any crossing, of course can indicate some tension. Folding arms may just be comfortable.
Hands
When we are anxious, we often use our hands to touch ourselves, hold ourselves or otherwise show tension. Relaxed hands hang loose or are used to enhance what we are saying. They are generally open and may shape ideas in the air. Gestures are open and gentle, not sudden nor tense.
Legs
Legs when sitting may sit gently on the floor or may be casually flung out. They may move in time to music, with tapping toes. They may be crossed, but are not wound around one another.
Note that legs can be a particular sign of hidden tension when the person is controlling the upper body and arms. When they are sitting at a table, what you see may be relaxed, but the legs may be held tense and wrapped.
Relaxed head
There are major signs of a relaxed person in their face.
Mouth
The person may smile gently or broadly without any signs of grimacing. Otherwise the mouth is relatively still.
When talking, the mouth opens moderately, neither with small movements nor large movement. The voice sounds relaxed without unusually high pitch and without sudden changes in pitch or speed.
Eyes
The eyes smile with the mouth, particularly in the little creases at the side of the eyes.
A relaxed gaze will look directly at another person without staring, and with little blinking. The eyes are generally dry.
Eyebrows are stable or may move with speech. They do not frown.
Other areas
Other muscles in the face are generally relaxed The forehead is a major indicator and lines only appear in gentle expression. The sides of the face are not drawn back.
When the head moves, it is smoothly and in time with relaxed talk or other expression.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
A relaxed body generally lacks tension. Muscles are relaxed and loose. Movement is fluid and the person seems happy or unconcerned overall.
Relaxed body
Torso
The torso may sag slightly to one side (but not be held there by irregular tension). It may also be well-balanced, with the shoulders balanced above the pelvis. It does not curl up with fear, though it may curl up in a restful pose.
Shoulders are not tensed up and generally hang loosely down.
Breathing
Breathing is steady and slower. This may make the voice a little lower than usual.
Color
The color of the skin is generally normal, being neither reddened by anger or embarrassment, nor pale with fear. There are no unusual patches, for example on the neck or cheeks.
Relaxed limbs
Relaxed limbs hang loosely. They do not twitch and seldom cross one another, unless as a position of comfort.
Arms
Tense arms are rigid and may be held close to the body. They may move in suddenly, a staccato manner. Relaxed arms either hang loosely or move smoothly.
If arms cross one another, they hand loosely. Any crossing, of course can indicate some tension. Folding arms may just be comfortable.
Hands
When we are anxious, we often use our hands to touch ourselves, hold ourselves or otherwise show tension. Relaxed hands hang loose or are used to enhance what we are saying. They are generally open and may shape ideas in the air. Gestures are open and gentle, not sudden nor tense.
Legs
Legs when sitting may sit gently on the floor or may be casually flung out. They may move in time to music, with tapping toes. They may be crossed, but are not wound around one another.
Note that legs can be a particular sign of hidden tension when the person is controlling the upper body and arms. When they are sitting at a table, what you see may be relaxed, but the legs may be held tense and wrapped.
Relaxed head
There are major signs of a relaxed person in their face.
Mouth
The person may smile gently or broadly without any signs of grimacing. Otherwise the mouth is relatively still.
When talking, the mouth opens moderately, neither with small movements nor large movement. The voice sounds relaxed without unusually high pitch and without sudden changes in pitch or speed.
Eyes
The eyes smile with the mouth, particularly in the little creases at the side of the eyes.
A relaxed gaze will look directly at another person without staring, and with little blinking. The eyes are generally dry.
Eyebrows are stable or may move with speech. They do not frown.
Other areas
Other muscles in the face are generally relaxed The forehead is a major indicator and lines only appear in gentle expression. The sides of the face are not drawn back.
When the head moves, it is smoothly and in time with relaxed talk or other expression.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Ready body language
Ready body languageA significant cluster of body movements are all about being ready for something.
Language of readiness
A ready body is poised for action.
Pointing
Any part of the body may be pointing at where the person is thinking about. This may be another person or the door. This may be as subtle as a foot or as obvious as the whole body leaning. Eyes may also repeated flash over in the intended direction.
Tension
The body is tensed up and ready for action. If sitting, hands may hold onto armrests in readiness to get up. Legs are tensed ready to lift the body. Things in the hand are gripped. Attention is away from everything except the intended direction.
Hooking
The hands may slightly hook clothing, in particular with thumbs hooked into the waistband. This is like a not-quite putting of hands in pockets, indicating the person is relaxed but ready to move quickly.
Movement
Where there is movement, it is in preparation for further movement. Legs uncross. Hands grab bags, straighten clothing, and so on. The whole body leans in the intended direction.
Reasons for readiness
There can be several reasons for a ready body language.
Leaving
The person may want to leave. Perhaps they have another appointment. Perhaps they are uncomfortable with the situation and just want to get out of there.
Ready to buy
When a person is ready to buy, then they may send readiness signals. They point at the thing they want to buy or the contract that needs selling.
Continuing conversation
Readiness may also be to talk more. When you are talking and they show readiness signals, maybe they just want to say something.
Ready to fight
When a person sees a real or verbal fight coming up, they put their body in a position where they can move quickly, either to attack or to defend.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Power body language
Power body language
Power is often expressed in communication as a combination of strength and humanity. This is very attractive and is a form of Hurt and Rescue.
Greeting
Handshake
As the other person approaches, move to left side, extend your arm horizontally, palm down (be first to do this). Grab their palm firmly, pull them in and hold their elbow with your left hand.
The horizontal arm is an unmissable signal. Palm on top is being dominant, putting yourself on top. Holding the elbow further controls them.
The royal handshake is outstretched arm to keep the other at their distance. A limp hand, palm down, stops them doing a power shake.
Touching
Touching is power symbol. Touching people can be threatening, and is used by leaders to demonstrate power.
The handshake is, of course, a touch, and can lead to further touching, such as the elbow grip and patting shoulders and back.
Guide people with a palm in the small of the back. Greet them with a hand on the back. Touch them on the elbow or other 'safe' areas.
Speaking
Talking
Talk with confidence and use the body beat in time with assertions. Beat with a finger, a palm or even a fist (which is rather aggressive). Emphasize and exaggerate your points.
Use silences too. Pause in the middle of speaking and look around at everyone. If you are not interrupted they are probably respecting your power. Stand confidently without speaking. Look around, gazing into people's eyes for slightly longer than usual.
Emoting
It is powerful to show that you have emotion, but in the right place only. It shows you are human. At other times it emphasizes how you are in control. A neat trick is to bite the lower lip, as it shows both emotion and control (Bill Clinton did it 15 times in 2 minutes during the Monica Lewinsky 'confession').
And...
Walking
Walk with exaggerated swinging of arms, palm down and out. Kink elbows outwards, making the body seem wider. Add a slight swagger.
When walking with others, be in front of them. When going through doors, if you are going to an audience, go first. If you are going from an audience, go last (guiding others through shows dominance).
Position
Generally be higher. Sit on a higher chair. Stand over people. Wear heels. Drive a higher car.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Power is often expressed in communication as a combination of strength and humanity. This is very attractive and is a form of Hurt and Rescue.
Greeting
Handshake
As the other person approaches, move to left side, extend your arm horizontally, palm down (be first to do this). Grab their palm firmly, pull them in and hold their elbow with your left hand.
The horizontal arm is an unmissable signal. Palm on top is being dominant, putting yourself on top. Holding the elbow further controls them.
The royal handshake is outstretched arm to keep the other at their distance. A limp hand, palm down, stops them doing a power shake.
Touching
Touching is power symbol. Touching people can be threatening, and is used by leaders to demonstrate power.
The handshake is, of course, a touch, and can lead to further touching, such as the elbow grip and patting shoulders and back.
Guide people with a palm in the small of the back. Greet them with a hand on the back. Touch them on the elbow or other 'safe' areas.
Speaking
Talking
Talk with confidence and use the body beat in time with assertions. Beat with a finger, a palm or even a fist (which is rather aggressive). Emphasize and exaggerate your points.
Use silences too. Pause in the middle of speaking and look around at everyone. If you are not interrupted they are probably respecting your power. Stand confidently without speaking. Look around, gazing into people's eyes for slightly longer than usual.
Emoting
It is powerful to show that you have emotion, but in the right place only. It shows you are human. At other times it emphasizes how you are in control. A neat trick is to bite the lower lip, as it shows both emotion and control (Bill Clinton did it 15 times in 2 minutes during the Monica Lewinsky 'confession').
And...
Walking
Walk with exaggerated swinging of arms, palm down and out. Kink elbows outwards, making the body seem wider. Add a slight swagger.
When walking with others, be in front of them. When going through doors, if you are going to an audience, go first. If you are going from an audience, go last (guiding others through shows dominance).
Position
Generally be higher. Sit on a higher chair. Stand over people. Wear heels. Drive a higher car.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Open body language
Open body languageA significant cluster of body movements are all about being open. This is sometimes misinterpreted solely as indicating being relaxed and untense.
Remember that perhaps the most significant part of being open or close is the act of opening or closing. When you open or close, you are signaling a change in the way you are thinking or feeling, which is likely to be in response to what the other person has said or done.
Language of openness
The open stance has arms and legs not crossed in any way. They may also be moving in various ways.
Arms open
Arms are not crossed and may be animated and moving in synchronization with what is being said or held wide.
Palms are also relaxed and may be quite expressive, for example appearing to hold things and form more detailed shapes. Open hands show that nothing is being concealed.
Legs open
Open legs are not crossed. Often they are parallel. They may even be stretched apart.
The feet are of interest in open legs and may point forward or to the side or at something or someone of interest.
Looking around and at the other person
The head may be directed solely towards the other person or may be looking around. Eye contact is likely to be relaxed and prolonged.
Relaxed clothing
Clothing is likely to hang loosely and actions to loosen clothing may take place, such as removing a jacket and unbuttoning a collar.
Reasons for opening
There can be several reasons for open body language. In particular look for the transition when the body opens and the triggers that may have caused this change.
Accepting
When arms rounded and palms are sideways, the person may be offering a 'mock hug', showing that they care for the other person. Gestures may be slower and symbolize gentleness.
Passive threat
An open posture may also be associated with a passive threat. When the person casually 'exposes themself', for example by opening their body and looking away they are opening themselves for attack. When this is relaxed, it may be saying 'I am so powerful and you are so weak, you are unable to attack me even when I am exposed.'
Males with knees apart are also doing a crotch display, which, as well as casually exposing vulnerabilities is effectively says to other males 'Look: I have a large penis than you!'
Aggression
When there is tension in the open body, especially if fists are clenched, then this may be a sign of significant aggression. The person is effectively holding their body open in readiness for a fight.
Aggression is also seen when the body is square on to the other person and is relatively close to them. Movements may be particularly sudden and designed to test the other person's reactions.
Supplicating
When palms are held upwards, this may form a pleading gesture and may be combined with lowering of the body. This is saying 'Please don't hurt me'.
Opening the body in supplication is also saying 'Here, you can hurt me if you wish' and is equivalent to a dog who rolls over on its back and exposes itself to indicate that it is not a threat.
Relaxing
And finally, the open body may simply be the body at rest, relaxed and comfortable.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Greeting body language
Greeting body languageThere are many possible components of greeting as the styles vary significantly across social groups and cultures.
Greeting is a ritual that helps break the ice and paves the way for appropriate other interaction. Greetings can include signals that may even be secret, for example saying 'we're in the same club'.
Formality is often an important factor, and when you move from a formal greeting to an informal greeting is an important factor in development of a friendship. Too early and it is an insult. Too late and it you may be considered arrogant or distant.
Handshake
Variables
Handshake variables include:
* Strength (weak - strong)
* Temperature (cold - hot)
* Moisture (damp - dry)
* Fullness of grip (full - partial)
* Duration (brief - long)
* Speed (slow - fast)
* Complexity (shake - dance)
* Texture (rough - smooth)
* Eye contact (prolonged - intermittent - none)
Styles
A firm grip shows confidence, whilst a limp grip may indicate timidity, particularly in men (women may be expected to be more gentile).
Palm down indicates dominance and a feeling of superiority ('I am on top'). Palm sideways indicate equality. Palm up indicates submission.
A long handshake can indicate pleasure and can signal dominance, particularly if one person tries to pull away and the dominant person does not let them.
Dominance may also be shown by using the other hand to grip the person, such as at the wrist, elbow, arm or shoulder. This may also be done by gripping the shaken hand with both of your hands. This may also indicate affection or pleasure (which allows for an ambiguous signal).
A variant of the dominant handshake which is used by politicians who are being photographed and hence shake hands side-by-side is to stand on the left hand side of the other person. This means your hand will be on the outside and it will look like you are the dominant party to those viewing the photograph.
Responses to the dominant handshake can include counter-touching (use your other hand to hold their hand, wrist, elbow, arm or shoulder), hugging (pull them in), thrusting (push them away by pushing your hand towards them) and stepping the side.
Hand-touching is also used, for example the 'high five', where open palms are touched high in the air, or where closed fists are tapped. Where the other person is not gripped, the origins may be in potentially aggressive situations where holding of another could be construed as a threatening act.
Salute
Variables
Salute variables include:
* Shape of hand (straight - curved)
* Speed (fast - slower)
* Head-touch (forehead - none)
* Shape (up-down - curved)
Style
The salute is a formal greeting where the open hand is brought up to the forehead. It is often used in the military in a strictly prescribed manner and situation.
There are several possible origins of this, including:
* Shading the eyes from the brilliance of a superior person.
* An abbreviation of raising one's hat or tugging the forelock (in the absence of a hat).
* Raising helmet visor to show the face (to allow recognition and dispel fears of enmity).
* Raising the hand to show it does not contain a weapon.
Bowing
Variables
Bowing variables include:
* Lowering (slight - very low)
* Pivot (head - waist)
* Duration (short - long)
* Gender style (bow - curtsey)
Style
Bowing is another formal greeting and can be as extreme as a full 90 degree bend from the waist to even complete prostration on the floor. This averts the eyes ('I dare not look at your majesty') and exposes the head ('You can kill me if you wish').
Bowing amongst peers is commonly used in a severely contracted form as a slight nod of the head. Even in the shortened form, the lower and longer the bow, the greater the respect that is demonstrated.
If eye contact is maintained during a bow, it can signify either mistrust or liking. Looking down as you bow indicates submission, although this also can just be a formal action.
The female variant on the bow is the curtsey, which again can be a full sinking to the floor or a slight bob. Similarly to bowing, this puts the person lower than the other person and into a position of greater vulnerability.
Bowing is different in different cultures. In countries such as Japan it is clearly defined and an important part of greetings. In other countries it is less important or maybe seen as obsequious.
Waving
Variables
Variables for waving include:
* Open palm (flat - curved)
* Movement angle (big - small)
* Raised (above head - held low)
* Direction (sideways rotation - up-down)
Style
Waving can be done from a distance. This allows for greeting when you first spot another person. It also allows for
Waves gain attention and a big, overhead wave can attract a person from some distance. This also makes others look at you and is not likely from a timid person.
A stationary palm, held up and facing out is far less obvious and may be flashed for a short period, particularly if the other person is looking at you (all you need is that they see the greeting).
Greeting children is often done with a small up-and-down movement of fingers, holding the rest of the palm still. Between adults, this can be a timid or safe signal from a child position ('I won't harm you - please don't harm me.').
Hugging
Variables
Hugging variables include:
* Hand placement (shoulder, etc.)
* Arms touch (none - wrap)
* Body position (front - side - behind)
* Pressure (light - strong)
* Body touching (none - full)
* Gender (man/woman - man/woman)
Styles
Hugging is a closer and more affectionate form of greeting than shaking hands and perhaps reflects a desire for bonding.
Hugging is generally more common between friends, although its usage does vary across cultures and is common in some places. Gender rules may also apply, for example hugging in America is far more common between women than between men. Harassment laws may also limit touching of the other person in what may be interpreted as an intimate way.
Full-body hugs create contact with breasts and between genitalia and hence may be sexually suggestive or stimulating. This tends to limit their use to romantic greetings, although they are still used in some cultures, including between men.
Light shoulder-only hugs are more common as social greetings, in which people lean forward in order not to break rules about touching breasts or genitalia.
Side-on, one-handed hugs are safer and can be a friendly touch. Even so, this still can be a deliberate romantic advance or act of domination (even if not, it may be perceived as such).
Longer, fuller hugs often signal greater affection and may happen between people who have not seen one another for some time.
Hugging someone from behind can be surprising and even threatening, and is usually only done by friends who trust one another implicitly.
Kissing
Variables
Contact during kissing can be:
* Lip/cheek to lip/cheek
* Duration (peck - smooch)
* Tongue (involved - not)
* Gender (man/woman to man/woman)
* Body involvement (none - full)
Styles
In some cultures, kissing is a part of social greeting. This may or may not include man-man and man-woman (which can lead to significant cross-cultural embarrassment).
The type of kiss is governed strongly by the relationship. Social greetings are relatively short, and may involve double or triple kissing, alternating either side of the face.
General friendship kissing may be longer and with more body contact, though mostly using arms to include a hug (and steady the body).
The most intense kiss is the romantic kiss which may well include full-length body touching, caressing with hands and lip-to-lip kisses that may even include interplay of tongues.
Facial signals
The face is used a great deal in sending greeting signals, and accompanies other greeting activity for example saying:
* Smiling: I am pleased to see you.
* Frowning: I am angry with you.
* Raised eyebrows: I am surprised to see you.
* Eyebrows together: I do not know your name.
* Looking down: I am inferior to you.
* Expressionless: I do not care about you.
Eye contact is particularly important in greeting and is usually held for a socially prescribed period. Prolonged eye contact can indicate both affection and dominance. Little or no eye contact can indicate timidity ('I dare not look at you'), dislike ('I do not want to see you') or dominance ('You are unimportant and below my interest.'). As with the handshake, a dominant signal may be sent under cover of the 'friendly' greeting.
Words
The words used in greetings can change significantly with the culture and context.
Formality
Informal greetings often use non-words and short forms like 'Hi', 'Watcha', 'Yay' and so on. Formal meetings use more formal language, such as 'Hello', 'Greetings', 'Good day' and so on. In some cultures, greeting is very formal and a fixed set of words are required in specific situations, 'Greeting, O holy one, father of us all and master of the world'.
Other greetings
There are many other ways in which people greet and further subtleties around the actions above, including:
* Touching or raising a hat
* Pressing or rubbing noses
* Touching or pressing bodies together in certain places and ways
* Moving the body through a defined locus
* Giving of gifts
* Touching palms or fists
Greetings may also be extended to parting, for which there are many similar rituals, including handshakes, bows and words of praise.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Evaluating body language
Evaluating body language
A notable cluster of body movements happens when a person is thinking, judging or making some decision.
Language of evaluation
Hand movements
The classic signal of evaluation is the steepled hands which are clasped together, either looking like they are praying, with both hands pressed together, or with linked fingers and with index fingers only pointing upwards. The fingers pointing upwards may touch the lips.
Another common evaluative movement is stroking, often of the chin but possibly other parts of the face.
Other actions
Other evaluative signals include pursing lips, stroking the side of the nose and (if worn) peering over the top of spectacles ('To look more carefully at you').
Relaxed intensity
The body may well be relaxed and open. The person seems to be unafraid or even unaware of danger. However there is also a level of concentration, perhaps with pursed lips and an intense gaze. The chin may be resting in one or both palms.
Reasons for evaluation
There can be several reasons for a ready body language.
Deciding
A person who is evaluating may be making an important decision. If they are buying from you, they may be close to the point of closure.
Judging
In their decision-making, they may be judging. Perhaps this is you, something you are saying or something else. Watch how they change with what you say and try to figure this one out.
Thinking
Sometimes the evaluation is only on an internal point. When they are deep inside their own world, they may be mentally trying out ideas to see if they will work. If you have suggested something, they may be trying to fit your idea into their own model of the world.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
A notable cluster of body movements happens when a person is thinking, judging or making some decision.
Language of evaluation
Hand movements
The classic signal of evaluation is the steepled hands which are clasped together, either looking like they are praying, with both hands pressed together, or with linked fingers and with index fingers only pointing upwards. The fingers pointing upwards may touch the lips.
Another common evaluative movement is stroking, often of the chin but possibly other parts of the face.
Other actions
Other evaluative signals include pursing lips, stroking the side of the nose and (if worn) peering over the top of spectacles ('To look more carefully at you').
Relaxed intensity
The body may well be relaxed and open. The person seems to be unafraid or even unaware of danger. However there is also a level of concentration, perhaps with pursed lips and an intense gaze. The chin may be resting in one or both palms.
Reasons for evaluation
There can be several reasons for a ready body language.
Deciding
A person who is evaluating may be making an important decision. If they are buying from you, they may be close to the point of closure.
Judging
In their decision-making, they may be judging. Perhaps this is you, something you are saying or something else. Watch how they change with what you say and try to figure this one out.
Thinking
Sometimes the evaluation is only on an internal point. When they are deep inside their own world, they may be mentally trying out ideas to see if they will work. If you have suggested something, they may be trying to fit your idea into their own model of the world.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Emotional body language
Emotional body language
With careful observation, emotions may be detected from non-verbal signs. Remember that these are indicators and not certain guarantees. Contextual clues may also be used, in particular what is being said to the person or what else is happening around then.
Anger
Anger occurs when achievement of goals are frustrated.
* Neck and/or face is red or flushed.
* Baring of teeth and snarling.
* Clenched fists.
* Leaning forward and invasion of body space.
* Other aggressive body language.
* Use of power body language.
Fear, anxiety and nervousness
Fear occurs when basic needs are threatened. There are many levels of fear, from mild anxiety to blind terror. The many bodily changes caused by fear make it easy to detect.
* A 'cold sweat'.
* Pale face.
* Dry mouth, which may be indicated by licking lips, drinking water, rubbing throat.
* Not looking at the other person.
* Damp eyes.
* Trembling lip.
* Varying speech tone.
* Speech errors.
* Voice tremors.
* Visible high pulse (noticeable on the neck or movement of crossed leg.
* Sweating.
* Tension in muscles: clenched hands or arms, elbows drawn in to the side, jerky movements, legs wrapped around things.
* Gasping and holding breath.
* Fidgeting.
* Defensive body language, including crossed arms and legs and generally drawing in of limbs.
* Ready body language (for fight-or-flight)
* Other symptoms of stress
Sadness
Sadness is the opposite of happiness and indicates a depressive state.
* Drooping of the body.
* Trembling lip.
* Flat speech tone.
* Tears.
Embarrassment
Embarrassment may be caused by guilt or transgression of values.
* Neck and/ or face is red or flushed.
* Looking down or away from others. Not looking them in the eye.
* Grimacing, false smile, changing the topic or otherwise trying to cover up the embarrassment.
Surprise
Surprise occurs when things occur that were not expected.
* Raised eyebrows.
* Widening of eyes.
* Open mouth.
* Sudden backward movement.
Happiness
Happiness occurs when goals and needs are met.
* General relaxation of muscles.
* Smiling (including eyes).
* Open body language
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
With careful observation, emotions may be detected from non-verbal signs. Remember that these are indicators and not certain guarantees. Contextual clues may also be used, in particular what is being said to the person or what else is happening around then.
Anger
Anger occurs when achievement of goals are frustrated.
* Neck and/or face is red or flushed.
* Baring of teeth and snarling.
* Clenched fists.
* Leaning forward and invasion of body space.
* Other aggressive body language.
* Use of power body language.
Fear, anxiety and nervousness
Fear occurs when basic needs are threatened. There are many levels of fear, from mild anxiety to blind terror. The many bodily changes caused by fear make it easy to detect.
* A 'cold sweat'.
* Pale face.
* Dry mouth, which may be indicated by licking lips, drinking water, rubbing throat.
* Not looking at the other person.
* Damp eyes.
* Trembling lip.
* Varying speech tone.
* Speech errors.
* Voice tremors.
* Visible high pulse (noticeable on the neck or movement of crossed leg.
* Sweating.
* Tension in muscles: clenched hands or arms, elbows drawn in to the side, jerky movements, legs wrapped around things.
* Gasping and holding breath.
* Fidgeting.
* Defensive body language, including crossed arms and legs and generally drawing in of limbs.
* Ready body language (for fight-or-flight)
* Other symptoms of stress
Sadness
Sadness is the opposite of happiness and indicates a depressive state.
* Drooping of the body.
* Trembling lip.
* Flat speech tone.
* Tears.
Embarrassment
Embarrassment may be caused by guilt or transgression of values.
* Neck and/ or face is red or flushed.
* Looking down or away from others. Not looking them in the eye.
* Grimacing, false smile, changing the topic or otherwise trying to cover up the embarrassment.
Surprise
Surprise occurs when things occur that were not expected.
* Raised eyebrows.
* Widening of eyes.
* Open mouth.
* Sudden backward movement.
Happiness
Happiness occurs when goals and needs are met.
* General relaxation of muscles.
* Smiling (including eyes).
* Open body language
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Dominant body language
Dominant body language
Dominant body language is related to aggressive body language, though with a less emotional content.
Size signals
The body in dominant stances is generally open, and may also include additional aspects.
Making the body big
Hands on hips makes the elbows go wide and make the body seem larger. So also does standing upright and erect, with the chin up and the chest thrust out. Legs may be placed apart to increase size.
Making the body high
Height is also important as it gives an attack advantage. This can be achieved by standing up straight or somehow getting the other person lower than you, for example by putting them on a lower seat or by your standing on a step or plinth.
Occupying territory
By invading and occupying territory that others may own or use, control and dominance is indicated. A dominant person may thus stand with feet akimbo and hands on hips.
Superiority signals
Breaking social rules
Rulers do not need to follow rules: they make the rules. This power to decide one's own path is often displayed in breaking of social rules, from invasion and interruption to casual swearing in polite company.
Ownership
Owning something that others covet provides a status symbol. This can be territorial, such as a larger office, or displays of wealth or power, such as a Rolex watch or having many subordinates.
Just owning things is an initial symbol, but in body language it is the flaunting of these, often casually, that is the power display. Thus a senior manager will casually take out their Mont Blanc pen whilst telling their secretary to fetch the Havana cigars.
Invasion
A dominant act is to disrespect the ownership of others, invading their territory, for example getting to close to them by moving into their body space. Other actions include sitting on their chairs, leaning on their cars, putting feet up on their furniture and being over-friendly with their romantic partners.
Invasion says 'What's yours is mine' and 'I can take anything of yours that I want and you cannot stop me'.
Belittling others
Superiority signals are found both in saying 'I am important' and also 'You are not important'. Thus a dominant person may ignore or interrupt another person who is speaking or turn away from them. They may also criticize the inferior person, including when the other person can hear them.
Facial signals
Much dominance can be shown in the face, from disapproving frowns and pursed lips to sneers and snarls (sometimes disguised as smiles).
The eyes can be used to stare and hold the gaze for long period. They may also squint, preventing the other person seeing where you are looking. They may also look at anywhere but the other person, effectively saying that 'you are not even worth looking at'.
Faces can also look bored, amused or express other expressions that belittle the other person.
Dominant people often smile much less than submissive people.
Phallic displays
Dominant men will often expose their crotch, effectively saying to other men 'I am safe from attack' or 'my penis is bigger than yours', whilst showing off. They may also be offering 'come and get it!' to women. When women do this, it is to some extent a tease or invitation to men but may also be an emulation of the male display, thus saying 'I am as strong as a man'.
This appears in standing or sitting where the legs are apart. It may be emphasized by scratching or adjusting of the crotch.
The dominant greeting
When people first meet and greet, their first interaction sets the pattern for the future relationship. When a person is dominant here, then they will most likely continue to be dominant.
The handshake
A classic dominant handshake is with the palm down, symbolically being on top. Another form of dominant handshake is to use strength to squeeze the other person.
Holding the other person's hand for longer than normal also shows that you are in control.
Eyes
Prolonged, unblinking eye contact acts like overplaying the handshake -- it says 'I am powerful, I can break the rules.' The dominant person may alternatively prevent eye contact, saying 'You are beneath me and I do not want even to look at you.'
Speaking
The person who speaks first often gets to control the conversation, either by talking for longer or by managing the questions.
Responding to dominance
If others display dominant body language you have a range of options.
The simplest response is simply not to submit, which is what they probably want. Continue to appear friendly and ignore their subtle signals.
Another response is to fight dominance with dominance, for example:
* Out-stare them (a trick here is to look at the bridge of their nose, not their eyes).
* Touch them, either before they touch you or immediately when they touch you.
* When they do a power handshake, grab their elbow and step to the side.
* When they butt in to your speech, speed up, talk more loudly and say 'let me finish!'
Another approach is to name the game. Ask them why they are using dominant body language. A good way to do this is in a curious, unafraid way.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Dominant body language is related to aggressive body language, though with a less emotional content.
Size signals
The body in dominant stances is generally open, and may also include additional aspects.
Making the body big
Hands on hips makes the elbows go wide and make the body seem larger. So also does standing upright and erect, with the chin up and the chest thrust out. Legs may be placed apart to increase size.
Making the body high
Height is also important as it gives an attack advantage. This can be achieved by standing up straight or somehow getting the other person lower than you, for example by putting them on a lower seat or by your standing on a step or plinth.
Occupying territory
By invading and occupying territory that others may own or use, control and dominance is indicated. A dominant person may thus stand with feet akimbo and hands on hips.
Superiority signals
Breaking social rules
Rulers do not need to follow rules: they make the rules. This power to decide one's own path is often displayed in breaking of social rules, from invasion and interruption to casual swearing in polite company.
Ownership
Owning something that others covet provides a status symbol. This can be territorial, such as a larger office, or displays of wealth or power, such as a Rolex watch or having many subordinates.
Just owning things is an initial symbol, but in body language it is the flaunting of these, often casually, that is the power display. Thus a senior manager will casually take out their Mont Blanc pen whilst telling their secretary to fetch the Havana cigars.
Invasion
A dominant act is to disrespect the ownership of others, invading their territory, for example getting to close to them by moving into their body space. Other actions include sitting on their chairs, leaning on their cars, putting feet up on their furniture and being over-friendly with their romantic partners.
Invasion says 'What's yours is mine' and 'I can take anything of yours that I want and you cannot stop me'.
Belittling others
Superiority signals are found both in saying 'I am important' and also 'You are not important'. Thus a dominant person may ignore or interrupt another person who is speaking or turn away from them. They may also criticize the inferior person, including when the other person can hear them.
Facial signals
Much dominance can be shown in the face, from disapproving frowns and pursed lips to sneers and snarls (sometimes disguised as smiles).
The eyes can be used to stare and hold the gaze for long period. They may also squint, preventing the other person seeing where you are looking. They may also look at anywhere but the other person, effectively saying that 'you are not even worth looking at'.
Faces can also look bored, amused or express other expressions that belittle the other person.
Dominant people often smile much less than submissive people.
Phallic displays
Dominant men will often expose their crotch, effectively saying to other men 'I am safe from attack' or 'my penis is bigger than yours', whilst showing off. They may also be offering 'come and get it!' to women. When women do this, it is to some extent a tease or invitation to men but may also be an emulation of the male display, thus saying 'I am as strong as a man'.
This appears in standing or sitting where the legs are apart. It may be emphasized by scratching or adjusting of the crotch.
The dominant greeting
When people first meet and greet, their first interaction sets the pattern for the future relationship. When a person is dominant here, then they will most likely continue to be dominant.
The handshake
A classic dominant handshake is with the palm down, symbolically being on top. Another form of dominant handshake is to use strength to squeeze the other person.
Holding the other person's hand for longer than normal also shows that you are in control.
Eyes
Prolonged, unblinking eye contact acts like overplaying the handshake -- it says 'I am powerful, I can break the rules.' The dominant person may alternatively prevent eye contact, saying 'You are beneath me and I do not want even to look at you.'
Speaking
The person who speaks first often gets to control the conversation, either by talking for longer or by managing the questions.
Responding to dominance
If others display dominant body language you have a range of options.
The simplest response is simply not to submit, which is what they probably want. Continue to appear friendly and ignore their subtle signals.
Another response is to fight dominance with dominance, for example:
* Out-stare them (a trick here is to look at the bridge of their nose, not their eyes).
* Touch them, either before they touch you or immediately when they touch you.
* When they do a power handshake, grab their elbow and step to the side.
* When they butt in to your speech, speed up, talk more loudly and say 'let me finish!'
Another approach is to name the game. Ask them why they are using dominant body language. A good way to do this is in a curious, unafraid way.
Source: http://changingminds.org/techniques/body/
Defensive body language
Defensive body language
When a person is feeling threatened in some ways, they will take defensive body postures.
Defending from attack
The basic defensive body language has a primitive basis and assumes that the other person will physically attack, even when this is highly unlikely.
Covering vital organs and points of vulnerability
In physical defense, the defensive person will automatically tend to cover those parts of the body that could damaged by an attack.
The chin is held down, covering the neck. The groin is protected with knees together, crossed legs or covering with hands. The arms may be held across the chest or face.
Fending off
Arms may be held out to fend off attacker, possibly straight out or curved to deflect incoming attacks.
Using a barrier
Any physical object may be placed held in front of the person to act as a literal or figurative barrier. This can be a small as a pen or as large as a table. Straddling a reversed chair makes some people comfortable in conversation as they look relaxed whilst feeling defensive.
Barriers can also protect the other person and if I am powerful, I may use a simple barrier to make you feel less defensive. It also means I control the barrier.
Becoming small
One way of defending against attack is to reduce the size of the target. People may thus huddle into a smaller position, keeping their arms and legs in.
Rigidity
Another primitive response is to tense up, making the muscles harder in order to withstand a physical attack.
Rigidity also freezes the body, possibly avoiding movements being noticed or being interpreted as preparing for attack.
Seeking escape
Flicking the eyes from side to side shows that the person is looking for a way out.
Pre-empting attack
Giving in
Pre-empting the attack, the defensive person may reduce the, generally using submissive body language, avoiding looking at the other person, keeping the head down and possibly crouching into a lower body position.
Attacking first
Aggressive body language may also appear, as the person uses 'attack as the best form of defense'. The body may thus be erect, thrust forward and with attacking movements.
Where attack and defense both appear together, there may be conflicting signs appearing together. Thus the upper body may exhibit aggression whilst the legs are twisted together.
Source: changingminds.org
When a person is feeling threatened in some ways, they will take defensive body postures.
Defending from attack
The basic defensive body language has a primitive basis and assumes that the other person will physically attack, even when this is highly unlikely.
Covering vital organs and points of vulnerability
In physical defense, the defensive person will automatically tend to cover those parts of the body that could damaged by an attack.
The chin is held down, covering the neck. The groin is protected with knees together, crossed legs or covering with hands. The arms may be held across the chest or face.
Fending off
Arms may be held out to fend off attacker, possibly straight out or curved to deflect incoming attacks.
Using a barrier
Any physical object may be placed held in front of the person to act as a literal or figurative barrier. This can be a small as a pen or as large as a table. Straddling a reversed chair makes some people comfortable in conversation as they look relaxed whilst feeling defensive.
Barriers can also protect the other person and if I am powerful, I may use a simple barrier to make you feel less defensive. It also means I control the barrier.
Becoming small
One way of defending against attack is to reduce the size of the target. People may thus huddle into a smaller position, keeping their arms and legs in.
Rigidity
Another primitive response is to tense up, making the muscles harder in order to withstand a physical attack.
Rigidity also freezes the body, possibly avoiding movements being noticed or being interpreted as preparing for attack.
Seeking escape
Flicking the eyes from side to side shows that the person is looking for a way out.
Pre-empting attack
Giving in
Pre-empting the attack, the defensive person may reduce the, generally using submissive body language, avoiding looking at the other person, keeping the head down and possibly crouching into a lower body position.
Attacking first
Aggressive body language may also appear, as the person uses 'attack as the best form of defense'. The body may thus be erect, thrust forward and with attacking movements.
Where attack and defense both appear together, there may be conflicting signs appearing together. Thus the upper body may exhibit aggression whilst the legs are twisted together.
Source: changingminds.org
Deceptive body language
Deceptive body language
When a person is seeking to trick or deceive you, they there are many different body signal they may use.
Language of deception
A deceptive body is concerned about being found out -- and this concern may show.
Anxiety
A deceptive person is typically anxious that they might be found out (unless they are psychopathic or good at acting), so they may send signals of tension. This may include sweating, sudden movements, minor twitches of muscles (especially around the mouth and eyes), changes in voice tone and speed.
Many of us have hidden anxiety signals. For example: Biting the inside of the mouth (George W. Bush), patting head (Prince William), hands in pockets (Tony Blair).
These signals are almost impossible to stop as we start them very young.
Control
In order to avoid being caught, there may be various signs of over-control. For example, there may be signs of attempted friendly body language, such as forced smiles (mouth smiles but eyes do not), jerky movements and clumsiness or oscillation between open body language and defensive body language.
The person may also try to hold their body still, to avoid tell-tale signals. For example they may hold their arms in or put their hands in their pockets.
Distracted
A person who is trying to deceive needs to think more about what they are doing, so they may drift off or pause as they think about what to say or hesitate during speech.
They may also be distracted by the need to cover up. Thus their natural timing may go astray and they may over- or under-react to events.
Anxiety may be displaced into actions such as fidgeting, moving around the place or paying attention to unusual places.
Reasons for deception
There can be many good reasons for deception.
Persuading
Deception may be an act that is intended to get another person to say or do something.
Avoiding detection
Deception also may be more self-oriented, where the sole goal is to get away with something, perhaps by avoiding answering incriminating questions.
Source: changingminds.org
When a person is seeking to trick or deceive you, they there are many different body signal they may use.
Language of deception
A deceptive body is concerned about being found out -- and this concern may show.
Anxiety
A deceptive person is typically anxious that they might be found out (unless they are psychopathic or good at acting), so they may send signals of tension. This may include sweating, sudden movements, minor twitches of muscles (especially around the mouth and eyes), changes in voice tone and speed.
Many of us have hidden anxiety signals. For example: Biting the inside of the mouth (George W. Bush), patting head (Prince William), hands in pockets (Tony Blair).
These signals are almost impossible to stop as we start them very young.
Control
In order to avoid being caught, there may be various signs of over-control. For example, there may be signs of attempted friendly body language, such as forced smiles (mouth smiles but eyes do not), jerky movements and clumsiness or oscillation between open body language and defensive body language.
The person may also try to hold their body still, to avoid tell-tale signals. For example they may hold their arms in or put their hands in their pockets.
Distracted
A person who is trying to deceive needs to think more about what they are doing, so they may drift off or pause as they think about what to say or hesitate during speech.
They may also be distracted by the need to cover up. Thus their natural timing may go astray and they may over- or under-react to events.
Anxiety may be displaced into actions such as fidgeting, moving around the place or paying attention to unusual places.
Reasons for deception
There can be many good reasons for deception.
Persuading
Deception may be an act that is intended to get another person to say or do something.
Avoiding detection
Deception also may be more self-oriented, where the sole goal is to get away with something, perhaps by avoiding answering incriminating questions.
Source: changingminds.org
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