Reading Body Language

Non-verbal communication is as much as, if not more, important than verbal communication. This is because while we are conscious of our verbal communication, our non-verbal communication, which is carried through the body language, is mostly from the sub-consciousness. That is why to understand a person you should be able to read his or her body language. According to body language psychologist Albert Mehrabian’s 7%-38%-55% rule, 55 percent of our communication is done through body language, 38 percent is done through the tone of voice and 7 percent is done through our words. This can be demonstrated through an example. Imagine, two men, approaching each other verbally insulting one another. They rush forward and then start hugging and laughing. Here it can be seen that the insult, which is a verbal communication, is the least important of all and they had already communicated with their tone and body language, which were positive. Therefore, in this case the insults were not serious. To help you further, read the article below on reading body language.

How To Read Body Language

Eyes

In non-verbal communication, eyes play a very important role, as they are a direct link to the emotions.
So, observe the eyes. If there is a lot of eye movement then it conveys that anxiety or deceit.
If the eyes are steady, then you can safely assume that the person is calm and confident.
However, if the person stares at you then it can be a sign of interest or anger.

Smile

Smile is a sign of agreement, acceptance, and submission.
If you see a person, biting the lip while smiling then it means that he or she is nervous.

Nose

If you see someone wrinkling the nose then it shows disgust. Similarly, if someone touches the nose while speaking, then you may assume that he or she is either lying or withholding information.
If you see anyone talking while he/she avoids touching his/her nose then it is a sign of power.

Position Of The Head

Observe the position of the head. Submissive people always tilt the head to the side.
If someone tilts the head backward, then you can take it as a sign of aggression or snootiness.
Those people who keep the head neutral and relaxed are in control of the situation.

Hand Gestures

Hands are very important to read body language.
People who stand with the hands on their hip convey power.
If you see the hand clasped behind the back then it can mean frustration or apprehension.

Self Hug

Some person stands with one arm clasping the elbow of the other arm. You must understand this as the need for security.
However, if both the hands are crossed in the front then you can be sure that it is a defensive state that the person wishes to convey.
If in addition to the folded arms, the head is also tilted back then take is as a sign of arrogance or defiance.

Hunched Or Drooping Shoulders

You can identify a dejected person if you see one with drooping shoulders.
This will also be accompanied with fists in the pocket.

Patting And Fondling The Hair

When you see a person, fondling the hair or patting, then it can mean the he or she is feeling a sense of insecurity or a lack of self-confidence.
Combing the head with the fingers can also signify embarrassment.

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