Mind Body Soul Spirit

Have you ever wondered what the person you are talking to is really thinking? Perhaps, you’re out on a date, on an interview or, maybe, you’re buying a new car and aren’t completely convinced by the slick salesman’s banter. Well, you can learn how to read between the lines with the help of Body Language.

Plainly speaking, Body language, known as Kinesics (pronounced: kineesicks), is non-verbal communication in the form of gestures, facial expressions, postures and involuntary twitches or jerks, which express what a person is subconsciously feeling or thinking.

Because Body language is such a vast and complex study, it’s impossible to list the effects in this short article. However, below are a few non-verbal methods, some of which you may already be familiar with, to give you a gist of what it’s about:

Thumb-up: Westernised gesture usually indicating something positive but also used by hitch-hikers to catch a lift on the side road.

Finger-snap: This gesture can be interpreted in two ways, depending on the situation. It can be perceived as offensive if the finger is snapped in order to get someone’s attention but if used when trying to remember something it is seen as a memory tactic.

Folding arms: If you are folding your arms because you are cold then it means just that. However, the folding of arms in other circumstances can be viewed as a negative gesture and perceived as being defensive, particularly if the legs are also crossed. However, sometimes people cross their arms as a relaxed state, so you do need to read associated signals before you come to a final conclusion.

Handshake: Used when greeting someone, this gesture has many hidden meanings.

If you initiate the handshake and your palm is down it can be an indicator of a dominant personality.

The glove handshake, which uses both hands to cover the recipient’s, is used to convey sincerity. This is usually used between people who know each other and can be construed as a tiny hug.

When the hand is taken and crushed it is clearly a sign of aggression, the ‘I’m in charge’ signal.

The ‘dead fish’ handshake, sometimes known as ‘limp or wet fish’, is viewed as unwelcoming as it can be a sign that the person doesn’t want to shake your hand or doesn’t like contact. However, it can also be interpreted as submission or weakness.

Finally, the Palm down vertical handshake is a sign of equality. So, do take heed of your handshake next time you meet someone – you don’t want to give them the wrong impression.

Steepled hands: This is a gesture of confidence. So if you're feeling confident you may subconciously find that your hands are in a steepled position. This is great if you want to portray confidence but do watch out as in certain circumstances it may be perceived as arrogrance or conceit.

Open Palms: An indication of honesty and frankness. This gesture is often used by politicians and salespeople in an effort to gain the public's confidence.

Understanding Body Language (online or postal)