5 Tips For Interpreting Body Language

Because actions speak louder than words, the 5 tips for interpreting body language will help you know if what a person does matches what they say. Every gesture a person makes is like a silent sentence that helps tell their story. Additionally, those gut feelings you get are often a result of your subconscious interpreting another’s body language. Consider the following tips the next time you are on a date.

1. Watch the eyes. The eyes say a lot without uttering a single word and provides important body language. A person making direct eye contact shows interest. If the eyes look up, the person is thinking. However, when the eyes look down or to the side, this could indicate an individual feels guilt or shame.  
2. Pay attention to posture. A person’s posture can tell you a lot about their attitude. For example, a person who leans forward during a conversation shows interest, while shoulders slumped forward may indicate something is wrong. Holding your head up high is body language that lets others know you feel confident.  
3. Notice the hands and arms. The position of the palms of a person’s hands can tell you if they want you to stop what you are doing (palms facing forward), or are in need or are being sincere (palms facing up). Fingers tapping a table may indicate anxiety, while those who hold one hand in the other may be trying to comfort herself. Folded arms close the body off to others, and is body language that shows anger or disapproval, while open arms indicate acceptance.
4. Mind facial expressions. A cringe of the nose, pout of the lips and raising of the eyebrows can flash the emotions of disgust, contempt and surprise. Some facial expressions are universal type of body language, such as a smile to express happiness.
5. Notice the amount of space between you and the other individual. A person’s distance away from you give you cues regarding aggression, intimacy, anxiety, affection or dominance.

Interpreting body language comes naturally to every person in varying degrees. An important thing to remember, however, is that not all cultures use body language in the same manners as others. Nevertheless, combining actions and words can clue you in to what your date is really trying to tell you.