Body Language

Do you look down when you speak? Play with your hair? Lean to one side? Every last gesture tells a story. What you are saying to others isn't just reflected in the words coming from your mouth, but also through the gestures and motions you make with your body. Kristin Appenbrink, Associate Editor for RealSimple.com reveals what your body language is saying about you.

Standing with your legs together is considered more of a conservative stance. It resembles a soldier facing his officer. This way of standing usually denotes deference.

If you stand with feet and legs shoulder-width apart, you are giving off signals of dominance and determination. For an extra boost, place your hands on your hips. This is a traditional position of power and is often used when asserting your side of an argument or discussion.

The way you move your body reflects your attitude. And shifting your weight from side to side or front to back indicates that you are anxious or upset. Basically, this is a physical representation of what is going on in your head: you are between many unsettling thoughts and can't stop moving from one to the other.

Crossing your arms and legs is a defensive position. Take note of the surroundings. More often than not, this just means a person is cold. Many people also find this position to be comfortable.

Pointing toes in, big toe to big toe, indicates you are closing yourself off because you feel awkward or insecure. But, if you're sitting up straight with your shoulders aligned and your head up - signs of an open body position - your feet may be betraying you.

Opening up your hands by spreading your hands as if serving someone a treat off a tray means you are open to new ideas being offered. Facing your palms down or clenching your fists shows you have a strong position - one that may not be so flexible.

Hiding your hands in your lap, in your pockets or behind your back are movements of deceit that often mean you're hiding something.

Picking at your nails or messing with cuticles is a sign of low confidence and timidity. Try steepling your fingers - hands folded together with index fingers extended - so you can't pick at your fingers. You will then appear self-assured.

For more information on understanding body language visit realsimple.com.
Kristin Appenbrink & Erika Wortham