Reading Body Language Tips

Learning to read body language is a great asset for engaging in successful relationships. The nonverbal cues someone expresses is just as important as the words that come out of his mouth. Carefully watching his body movements and positions as you interact with him can yield extra information about the conversation as well as his character.

Eyes

The eyes often emit the emotion beyond an individual's words. When you talk with him, look into his eyes and sense what feeling starts to happen in you. Do you feel scared or soothed? Often we unconsciously empathize with the person we're talking with through eye contact. Bring conscious attention to the feeling that you have when you make eye contact with someone, because this can be a useful way of understanding his emotions.

Arms

Along with our eyes, our arms also help us express emotion. Although eyes typically convey feelings in a subtle manner, arms communicate feelings more overtly. When you are interacting with someone, observe the positioning of his arms. Does he keep them firmly folded at his chest or tightly gripped behind his back? Both positions can indicate rigidity, restraint and self-control. Conversely, you may notice that his arms moves fluidly as he talks or keeps them relaxed by his side. This may indicate sincerity and openness. However, you know most about what someone's body language is communicating because you will feel it in your body. Trust your own instinct as you watch his body language.

Posture

Observing a person's physical posture can produce information about how secure he is in the world. Posture begins at the foundation of our bodies, which includes our feet, legs and pelvis. Notice the positioning of the feet. Are they both on the ground? Do they move around a lot, or are they stationary? How the feet are placed can tell you how grounded and secure he is in himself. Shifting feet can indicate awkwardness and instability. Watch his legs and feet in relation to his pelvis. Do his feet and legs seem to evenly support his pelvis or is there an imbalance or unevenness? You might get the sense that he could fall over any second. On the other hand, you may perceive him to be solid and supportive. If he is being honest and straightforward as he talks, then his posture will likely reflect this in a steady and stable stance. Remember to trust your perception as you observe his posture. What you feel as you survey his posture is a key part of reading body language.