Non Verbal Communication - Body language

http://www.ArtichokePress.com Non-verbal communication or body Language
Shrugs, sighs, eye rolling, sneers, slumped shoulders, ignoring, mumbling are all gestures of non verbal communication. But then, so are smiles, winks, hugs, spontaneous eye contact and a relaxed stance. The problem with trying to read people, and especially your children, is that body language can have multiple meanings, depending on the culture, past experiences and willingness to share emotions and feelings.

One unconscious signal is open to interpretation. However, if the gestures occur in clusters or with similar clues, then it is usually interpreted by others as an attitude.

We attract or repel people with non verbal signals. When I researched and wrote The Left Out Child many of the children who had the most difficulty finding and maintaining friendships had trouble reading other's body language. By just working on their own body signals, they appeared much more open and approachable to close relationships.

Here is a small list of body movements. Gestures that are "closed" mean that there is something standing in the way of honest sharing. "Open" gestures usually indicate a willingness to build and strengthen a relationship and comfort with the others in the group or discussion.

Closed and Resistant

- Arms folded to protect heart or stomach

- Shoulders bent forward

- Knees pulled up in fetal position

- Glancing at exit

- Rigid or the opposite fidgeting

- Locked ankles

- Hand wringing

- Rocking

- Staring or eyes closed

- Looking at floor

- Head lowered

Open and Affirming

- Palms up

- Open hands

- Spontaneous eye contact

- Feet apart, shoulders back

- Uncrossed legs

- Appropriate touching/patting

- Smile often/ laugh appropriately

- Affirmative head nods

- Body positioned towards other person

Respectful communication

The most effective communication is a mutually respectful and mindful listening attitude on the part of all participants. By learning a few of the subconscious indicators along with the verbal information, we can form stronger relationships with family, friends and co-workers.

© 2007 by Judy H. Wright, Parent Educator, Author and international speaker on family relations. Ph: 406.549.9813 For Free articles and to sign up for the e-zine The Artichoke-finding the heart of the story in the journey of life please go to http://www.ArtichokePress.com You will also find a full listing of books, workshops, and teleclasses. If you would like to ask parenting questions and find solutions check out our blog at http://www.AskAuntieArtichoke.comJudy H. Wright A.K.A. Auntie Artichoke speaks on talking while not saying anything at all. Enjoy!

Category:

Education

Tags:

• body language
• non-verbal signals
• shrugs and sighs
• eye rolling
• slumped shoulders
• mumbling closed body language
• Montana
• share emotions and feelings
• children pick up body language
• silent communication
• closed body language

[damasgate]

This is really an eye opener for those that don't really notice non verbal communication. Body language is truly the vibe that you give off that makes people hold you to the respect you deserve.

[tescalante760]

Why do all of this is boooring! You are boring me to death and I'm already death! Jk..

[stephenloosli]

wow, that was powerful.

[stephenloosli]

Wow, that was powerful!! of course, our faces can yell even when our voices aren't. You gave me a lot to think about how I look when I speak.

Thanks

[stephenloosli]

Wow, that was powerful!! Yes, our face can yell all by itself. Makes me really re-evaluate what my body is saying!! Thanks