First Lieutenant Zebulon Hanley crosses the finish line and wins a marathon. You can read his sense of celebration simply from his facial expressions and hand gestures.
There are many ways to send someone a message. Body language is how people communicate without using words. For example, we make expressions with our faces, or gestures with our hands. More than half of what we communicate to others is through body language alone.

Sometimes people use body language while they are talking. But body language is often "spoken" in silence. An example of this is when people shrug their shoulders to mean "I don't know."

People trust body language more than words. Sometimes we might speak words, but our body language is saying something different. For example, imagine someone who tells you that they are doing well, but they slump over and do not look you in the eye. Then you know they are not OK.

Each person's body language is different. People form their own body language over many years. It can be hard for people to change their body language on purpose.

Different Types Of Body Language

Speaking in public often involves hand and arm gestures.
People make many expressions with their faces. For example, a smile can mean many things without saying a word.

Expressions usually help people make their point. Sometimes, expressions can even change what is being said. If you wink at someone, you might be showing that you are not being serious. Another example is looking someone in the eyes while talking. This shows confidence or being sure of yourself.

Gestures and the way people stand are other ways to communicate without words. Some very common gestures are waving goodbye, or giving the thumbs-up sign. Standing with your arms crossed can mean that you are mad.

What Messages Are Communicated Through Body Language?

Couple in the metro, showing similar postures.
People's body language often shows their true feelings. There is also usually a connection between what we feel and how we act. For example, hearing a sudden noise can make us jump in surprise. Body language is a visible sign of how we are reacting to our environment.

Our body language can say many things about who we are, what we are thinking and how we feel. Confident people often stand up straight and shake hands firmly. This personality is shown more through body language than when someone is speaking.

Ways To Use Body Language Effectively

What messages are you sending with your own body language?

Body language is important in places like job meetings.
When you stand, what do you do with your hands? Are they in your pockets, at your sides, or perhaps clasped behind your back? Do you look people in the eyes or avoid their gaze?

Try to notice your own body language. This could help you to decide which new body habits you want to learn. Or, it can help you to decide which ones you do not want.

The Relationship Between Body Language And Emotion

Think of the body language of a football player who has just scored a touchdown or a runner who is first across the finish line. They usually raise their hands high over their heads. Almost everyone understands that this means they are winning.

You can do this, too. The next time you are about to do something important, stand with your arms raised and head held high. Do this for two minutes and it might help give you feelings of success. Your body language can make you feel more confident.

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