Body language
Friday 29 January 2010
Your body language can give away a lot about what you are feeling or thinking. For instance, did you know that crossing your arms conveys negativity and nervousness? Here are some ways you can adjust your body language to portray positive vibes.
The way you move
Over half of your communication is portrayed through body language. It’s a form of non-verbal communication made up of poses, gestures, facial expressions and eye movements.
Body language is just as important as verbal communication. In fact, some experts believe that communication consists of 93 per cent body language and only seven per cent verbal language. Think about it, when you’re annoyed at something you may be biting your tongue but it’s the huffing and puffing and crossing your arms that gives way what you are feeling.
Looking good
One of the best ways to be in command of your body language is to be aware of it in the first place. No matter what situation you’re in it’s always possible to adjust your body language so that you give off good energy.
Stand straight
Slouching isn’t just bad for your back; it gives a bad impression too. A good posture reflects energy, enthusiasm and also self-control. Slouching on the other hand, gives the impression that you’re lazy and that you’ve got something to hide; this isn’t exactly what you’d want to portray at an interview is it?
So next time you’re sitting on a chair, don’t slump. Sit up and hold your head up high.
It's in the hands
Often when you’re nervous, you release energy through fidgeting. You might play with your hair, fiddle with objects around you or tap your fingers or feet.
So how do we release energy without fidgeting? You could make some positive hand gestures instead. If you’re in an interview for example, you could make some strong firm hand gestures to back up what you’re saying.
By making hand gestures you’re also making yourself seem more animated and enthusiastic. You’re likely to get some interest your way – which is a good thing if you’re trying to get a special someone’s attention. Don’t overdo it though, too much gesturing can also becoming distracting.
Be at ease
Do you ever find yourself clasping your hands together or crossing your arms during a presentation, interview, or other nerve-wracking situation? These are defensive forms of body language. Most people make these kinds of gestures when they’re worried or anxious about something.
When all eyes are on you, take three deep breaths, close your eyes and clear your mind. You need to keep your body language in tune with what you’re saying.
Shake your body out to release any tension and keep your arms placed naturally by your side. Make hand gestures when you have to but never raise your arms above your shoulders, keep them at chest height. This looks a lot more natural.
Make eye contact
Consistent and focused eye contact shows that you’re paying attention to the person you’re talking to. It also shows you’re confident and comfortable which is always a good thing.
Looking away when you’re in the middle of a conversation however, is a big no-no. It gives the impression that you’re being false or lying about something, or that you feel on edge.
If you like someone and if you want to know if they like you back, then try to keep eye contact with them for longer than usual. You’ll soon find out if your feelings are mutual – the eyes aren’t called the windows of soul for nothing. Don’t forget to blink though or you might freak them out.
Mind and body
Your body language not only sends messages to those around you but also to your own brain. This affects the way you act. It’s the same the other way around. If you are constantly thinking less-than-positive thoughts, your body language will reflect this.
Try this experiment:- for a whole day think nothing but positive things about yourself, brushing aside any negative thoughts. At the same time try being more positive in the way you portray yourself through body language. You may be surprised at the results! The more positive your body language, the more others will react positively towards you.
