Body Communication

Tags: dating relationships

How our bodies communicate

Our bodies can speak volumes for us.­ So it's important to be aware of what we're doing with our bodies, whatever we're saying with our mouths. Body language involves giving signals about our feelings and the content of what we're saying. It's how the body expresses itself separately from the words themselves. It can indicate anger, fear, hurt, joy, love and much more. Body language reinforces what you're saying verbally, so it needs to be consistent with the message. Here are a few handy hints to remember, when you are trying to communicate assertively:

  • Posture and distance - make sure you are not too close or too far away from the other person. Too close and you may appear aggressive. Too far away and you will not have enough personal presence. It also helps to be on the same level physically.
  • Eyes and mouth - Always maintain relaxed and friendly eye contact. Our eyes are one of our most expressive features. When we are nervous we often clench our jaws. Try to relax this part of your face.
  • Voice - A calm, even and audible tone of voice is more likely to show that you are in control of yourself and clear about what you are saying. Try not to swallow your words or shout!
  • Breathing - Hyperventilating? Take some deep breaths if you are going into a situation that makes you anxious. It really can help to calm you down.
  • Gestures - Some people can be quite expressive with their hands. Pay attention to how you use your hands to communicate and notice if you need to keep it in check - too much waving can be distracting to what you're actually trying to say.