Body language is nonverbal communication that is found worldwide. Some cultures have movements that are significant to the region but many are universal. Your actions are often louder than words in their effect.

Our gestures demonstrate our moods – anger, happiness, amazement, romantic attraction, surprise, sadness, discomfort, etc.

Waving

A wave is just one gesture that can mean many things. Probably one of the first gestures we are taught as babies is to wave bye bye. Nothing is more adoring than a sweet little hand of a young child waving good bye and it is a guarantee that it will bring a smile to any grandparents’ face as they turn back to their side for one more hug or kiss before they part.

A wave can be a welcoming to come closer or say hello. How many movie scenes show an anticipated return of a romantic interest with the partner waving to them to gain their attention before running to their outstretched arms? And let’s not forget the impression a wave with only the middle finger extended makes upon us…sparks can fly along with tempers.

The Handshake

You can judge a lot about a man by his handshake.

You can judge a lot about a man by his handshake.

My father always said that you could judge a lot about a man by his handshake. He taught me that a firm solid handshake is the way to go about greeting a fellow human being with respect. Have you ever extended your hand to shake someone else’s and found that you weren’t sure if it was a hand or a dead fish you were shaking? Not a good impression is it? A lasting impression all the same. So next time you reach out and make a good impression, really give them a hand they will count on.

Just like a neon “OPEN” sign in the window of a local shop signals that they are open for business and that you are welcome to enter, so do certain body gestures. The way in which we present ourselves gives the first clue as to how receptive and approachable we are to everyone that we meet and interact with.

Arm Gestures

Arm gestures are our personal directional signal as to whether a direct approach is a go ahead or caution is needed. The more outgoing a person is the more they will move their arms in large gestures while a more insecure or shy person will hold their arms close to their body. Crossing your arms in front of your body is defensive and a real no-no unless of course you want to show displeasure or disapproval.

Think of the stance your mother may have held when as a child you had just tracked across her freshly washed floor with mud caked shoes. Can’t you just picture her standing there with arms folded across her chest? Got the picture? Crossing body parts, arm or legs signifies that you are closing yourself off to others.

Well that sums up quite a few arm gestures but let us not forget about the hands at the end of the arms. You can’t have them just dangling like some kind or limp or wilted flower. Even the best manicure won’t save you from that negative impression. You want to appear friendly and open, and so should your hands be. The palms of the hands in a slightly upward and open position signify earnest sincerity. Being yourself is the best way to present yourself and your award winning warm friendly persona, so let it show.

Lean in a little closer… not so close that it appears you are hard of hearing. Just close enough to show genuine interest in what is being said. Nodding is reassuring gesture to show agreement or signify your awareness of the importance of what is being said.

Chivalry

We have all heard that chivalry is dead. Hmmm, is it? Well you may not see any knights riding up on white horses to save damsels in distress. But don’t be so quick to think that men no longer display chivalry.

Picture this: you are out in social situation and have met a gentleman that has engaged you in a conversation and shown obvious signs of interest. You have found it necessary to excuse yourself for a moment or two and get up from your chair leaving it empty and available. Upon your return you see that he has placed his jacket on the back of your chair – the one you left so available just moments ago. This is a sure indication that he is protecting you and making it possible for your safe return to his side.

Men are territorial creatures and as such will establish their territory. There signs – although subtle – are visible. Something as simple as placing personal items such as keys or sunglasses near them, will mark their domain.

Let’s not forget that laughter is the best medicine. This may be the perfect prescription for attracting and engaging a person of interest but keep it sincere and appropriate, not forced. A smile and laughter are contagious and draw people to us. After all isn’t this what we are after?

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