Communication is an integral part of any relationship, but roles of communication extend beyond words. A substantial amount of communication of interpersonal relationships is transmitted through our body language; without a word being said, we can reveal a multitude of thoughts and feelings. Body language is a relatively universal form of nonverbal communication and the most characteristic manner in which we unconsciously reveal our emotions. Being able to interpret the significance of body language is a valuable asset to possess because it gives you the ability to relate more easily to others.
Facial Expressions
Facial expressions are often a result of reflexes that are recognizable as a sudden response to an observation or situation. Facial expressions clearly and ubiquitously articulate emotions such as trepidation, disgust, happiness, sadness, dismay and shock; these expressions are discernible despite language or cultural barriers. Parts of the face can betray aspects of our emotions. For instance, facial twitching can expose stress, anxiety or embarrassment; resting your chin on your hand can reveal boredom or feigned interest; and flaring your nose could indicate anger or agitation. Frequently, we don't even realize that we are making certain expressions, and therefore we inadvertently expose our emotions.
Eye Contact
The eyes are appropriately named "windows to the soul." Eyes have the ability to expose so many expressions simultaneously; the duration and intensity of eye contact, the eye movement, and the avoidance of eye contact, are all ways in which you can emotions. Maintaining eye contact is an important way to show that you are engaged in the dialogue; while avoiding eye contact reveals that you are either apathetic or awkward in the conversation. Eye contact can disclose crucial dynamics of interpersonal relationships such as interest, indifference, hostility, affection, suffering and joy.
Hand Gestures
Pointing, waving and using our hands to express ourselves is a customary way in which people communicate greetings, directions and passionate beliefs. Hand gesturing is a nonverbal form of communication where the gesture can drastically alter in meaning depending on the respective culture; being aware of the fact that hand gestures are not universally recognized can help you to avoid confusion, embarrassment and even dangerous situations.
Touch
Communicating through the tactile sense has its advantages and its disadvantages; using the sense of touch, in the proper manner, can generate a mutual sensual and passionate closeness, while inappropriate use of touch can lead to awkwardness, distrust and barriers in communication. The tactile sense can transmit profound emotional and physical impact, which can aid reciprocal intimacy, but can harm a relationship in which there is no reciprocity of affection.
Body Positioning
The manner in which you position your body while you are engaged in conversation can reveal your comfort level in the situation. The physical space or proximity to the person with whom you are speaking can send various nonverbal messages; folding your arms, standing with your hands on your hips, and standing at angled distance can be indications of aggression or unease. Crossing your legs in the direction of the person to whom you are speaking, putting your arms on the table in front of you with open hands, and standing closely to someone with your body angled toward them are ways of communicating affectionate or intimate nonverbal signals.
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