Body Language 1

The Cobra
The person leans back and folds his/her arms behind the head openly.
underlines his/her high status.

I have everything under control.
Self-confidence The person feels safe and
Superiority The person feels safe regarding the issue and/or superior to a person.
Im smarter than you.
Explanation
The body is open and yet the person claims territory. He/she shows distance and
emotional coldness. The gesture makes us look bigger and shows dominance.
Categories body, easy, dominant, open, territorial
This is one out of 63 gestures from the body language trainer .
The Interlock
The person crosses his/her arms and blocks the chest and stomach.
Distance and Defense The person has a

distant attitude towards a person or situation.
You cant expect me to believe that.
Restraint The person listens to the matter , but is not yet ready to act.
Well see how things develop.
Explanation
We protect our bodies from danger by building a shield. This self hug soothes and
prevents us from acting rash. If hands or fists are tensed, they reinforce the defensive
meaning.
Caution Crossed arms are not always a defensive reaction. Depending on the situation,
they can be relaxing or caused by cold. If the hands are eased up, it is only a soft
barrier. If the hands are tensed up, it shows the greater displeasure.
Categories body, uneasy, defensive
The Lint Picker

The caller interrupts eye contact and removes real or imaginary lint from the arm or
table.
Rejection & Reservation

The person does not like what he/she hears or thinks that no place for his/her point of
view. Alternatively he/she pushes an argument figuratively.
I dont want to hear this.
Explanation
The lint picker is found when a person does not agree with the subject. The person holds
back to express his/her opinion. Encourage the person to say what he/she thinks.
Categories arm
The Recliner
The body is open and leans back relaxed.
Self-confidence The person is relaxed and feels good.
Everything is fine.
Explanation
An open posture makes us vulnerable. We open ourselves, if we have nothing to fear
and we feel self-assured.
Categories body, easy, open
The Sphinx
The person touches the nose with a finger.
Skepticism The person is uncertain about

the matter at hand.
I am not convinced by what I am saying or you are telling me.
or Calming If the person is emotionally involved, he/she wants to calm himself/herself
down.
I dont want to see or hear this.
Explanation
If a person feels uncomfortable e.g. when lying -, the breathing speed and heart rate
increases. As a result, the blood vessels expand in the nose. The tingling can trigger the
touch. The gesture is an indicator of discomfort it does not proof lying!
Categories face, uneasy, defensive
OK Sign
Thumb and index finger touch, while the other three fingers are spread apart.
Western Culture Everything is OK or if a speaker wants to emphasize a point.

France Zero.
Japan Change (of money).
Brazil, Spain and Turkey Inappropriate gesture.
Explanation
This gesture shows how different body language can be perceived around the world.
Categories arms/hands
The Open Hands
The person opens arms, such that palms and fingers are visible.
Openness and Honesty The person wants to show that he/she can be trusted.
Look, I have nothing to hide.
Explanation
Many people find it difficult to lie when showing their palms. The gesture exposes
vulnerable parts of the body. Thus, it shows trust in the other person. For example, a
legal defender would make his/her palms visible in the courtroom. Use this gesture in
presentations and sales.
Caution: This does not apply if the shoulders are pulled up.
Categories arms/hands, open
The Double Handshake
During the handshake, the left hand touches the others hand, wrist or forearm.
Trust The person wants to strengthen the personal bond.

I am sincere.
or Dominance The person takes the lead.
Trust me, I will lead you.
Explanation
Touches strengthen the bond between two people. The extra hand shall emphasize the
intimacy of the relationship. When touching the other, the person shows affection but
also dominance. On average the handshake becomes longer when touching. The double
handshake is often used by politicians and sales men. The gesture enters the intimate
space and should therefore only be used with friends.
Categories arms/hands, dominant, territorial
The Scribbler
The person doodles or draws without a particular goal.
Boredom The person has no interest in the current topic or has tuned out completely.
I would like to do something else now.
Explanation
Change the subject or end the conversation. Sometimes it is just fatigue that prevents
us from attentive listening. Research found that mechanical acts such as scribbling, help
us focus.
The Interlock
The person crosses his/her arms and blocks the chest and stomach.
Distance and Defense The person has a distant attitude towards a person or
situation.
You cant expect me to believe that.
Restraint The person listens to the matter, but is not yet ready to act.
Well see how things develop.
Explanation
We protect our bodies from danger by building a shield. This self-hug soothes and
prevents us from acting rash. If hands or fists are clenched, they reinforce the defensive
meaning.
Caution: Crossed arms are not always a defensive reaction. Depending on the situation,
they can be relaxing or caused by cold. If the hands are eased, it is only a soft barrier.
If the hands are tense, it shows the greater displeasure.
Categories body, uneasy,
The Upper Grip
The hand touches the upper chest, the jugular or the neck.
Discomfort The person feels insecure.

This situation makes me uncomfortable.
Explanation
The neck is a very vulnerable area. We protect it by pulling up the shoulders or placing
our hands in front. Men grab the neck more forcefully than women.
Categories arms/hands, uneasy
Spaces
Each situation requires a different distance to the other person.
Distance 0-15cm (~5) -> very close intimate space

15cm 45cm (5-15) -> intimate space
45cm-1.20m (15-4ft) -> personal space
1,20m 3.60m (4ft-12ft) -> social space
>3.6m (>12ft) -> public space
Explanation
When looking at space between people, the rotation of the bodies towards each other
plays a big role. We have no problem to stand next to someone that is 30cm (~10)
away. However, if the person faces us completely at this distance, we start feeling
uneasy.
The intimate space is reserved for people who are close to us, such as your partner or
family. We allow people we like and know well, such as family or very good friends, into
this space. In the personal space we interact with friends or colleagues, e.g. at a party.
In the social space we communicate with people, we have a neutral attitude towards,
for example sales man. In the public space, most people feel safest. E.g., this distance
is common in lectures or presentations.
Categories body, territorial
The Palm
The palms face upwards or downwards.

Submissiveness (Palm up) The person asks for a favor.
You have to believe me.
or Dominance (Palm down) The person claims a right.
We will do it this way!
Explanation
Palms facing upwards have a pleading and inviting character. The downward hand is
giving and dominant.
The Escort
The person ushers the other or offers a seat.

Sovereignty The person takes the role of the host and lays out the rules.
Please sit here.
Explanation
The dominant effect increases if the person touches the other. This establishes who is in
charge. Generally, it is good if the host takes the leading role.
The Seesaw
The feet teeter stronger than before.
Nervousness, Excitement or ImpatienceThis self-soothing gesture shows that the

person is currently faced with a unpleasant thought or question.
I do not know how to respond.
Explanation
Many people are not aware of what they do with their feet. Yet, feet are a good indicator
for the mood of a person. People usually wiggle because they are impatient or bored. If
a the wiggling becomes stronger when touching a particularly topic, this indicates that
the person feels unpleasant.
Categories legs/feet, uneasy
The Laydown
The palms are spread-out on the table.

Possessiveness and Dominance The person wants to establish his/her authority.
Im in charge!
Explanation
The hands claim ownership. Through spreading the fingers, the hands appear larger.
The person takes up more space and shows authority.
The Watch Watcher
The person looks at his/her watch or a clock in the room.
Impatience or Boredom The person wants to end the conversation.

I have better to do. Let me go.
Explanation
The person shows that he/she has no time. The person is unable or unwilling to perceive
more information. Take the initiative: Change the subject or end the conversation.
Categories body
The Adjuster
The person straightens the tie.

Discomfort The person feels insecure or prepares for an important meeting.
Im nervous.
or Desire The person dresses up for the other(s).
Look, I am beautiful.
Explanation
The context is important for the meaning. If the person is stressed, the gesture covers
the sensitive jugular notch and the neck. Then, it is a defensive pose. In the case of
flirtation or an interview, we would like to look the best.
Categories body
The Patrolman
The hand holds the other wrist behind the back.
Authority and Self-assurance The person walks through his/her terrain fearlessly.
Nothing can harm me.
Distance The person monitors the situation, but does not want physical contact with
the other usually subordinate persons.
Please do not touch me.
Explanation
This gesture is found with high-level personal, such as high-ranking police officers,
military personnel or bosses. They pace out their territory and inspect. The vulnerable
front demonstrates that the person has no fear. The hands on the back offer little
opportunity to engage in physical contact with them.
Categories arms/hands, easy, , territorial
The Eye Wiper
One or more finger rubbing over the upper or lower eyelid.
Discomfort The person feels uncomfortable and wants to avoid/flee the situation.
Can we please talk about something else?
Explanation
The person interrupts eye contact because he/she wants to avoid hearing or seeing.
Categories face, uneasy,
The Self-Hug
The arms are folded, while the hands embrace the body and the thumbs point upwards.
Defense and Self-confidence The person feels secure in what he/she does and does
not allow arguments to come near him/her.
Dont even try to attack what I am saying.
Explanation
This ambiguous signal shows a negative attitude. The thumbs show dominance. Give
the person something for the hands or walk with him/her. This may relax the situation.
Categories arms/hands,
The Leg Barrier
The person crosses the legs while the rest of the body is tense and/or the arms are
folded.
Defense and Protection The person feels insecure.
I feel backed into a corner.
Explanation
If a person suddenly crosses his/her legs or wraps them around a chair, the person feels
uncomfortable. This closed posture shows the need for protection and support. This
pose is often accompanied by the hands pressing on his/her knees or holding on to a
chair. Give the person something in his/her hand or put them in motion, so that they can
relax.
Categories legs/feet, uneasy
The Wrist
The wrist shows openly.

Sympathy and Trust The person likes the other and has a positive attitude towards
him/her.
I would like to learn more about you.
Explanation
Wrists are especially for women very sensitive body parts. Vital veins run through
them. The gesture shows openness and indicates that the person is attracted to the
other. The Wrist can be interpreted as flirting signal.
Categories arms/hands, easy, open
The Armshake
During the handshake, the left hand touches the others elbow, forearm or shoulder.
Trust The person wants to strengthen the personal bond.

We are good friends.
Dominance The person raises his/her status.
You are beneath me.
Explanation
With this gesture the person tries to establish trust in a dominant manner. It is only
acceptable between close friends. Using this gesture with customers, may cause
distrust and you may commit social suicide. As an answer to this dominant gesture, you
can either reciprocate the touch or use the left hand to push the other person back
slightly and then stand sideways.
The Pen Nibbler
An object, such as a pen or lens, is lead to the mouth.
Hovering or Concentration The person is reflecting what best decision or solution

would be.
I am not convinced yet.
Explanation
We create comfort by touching the mouth with items. This also applies to cigarettes.
This gesture can be traced back to sucking on the mothers chest.
Give the person more information or a different perspective to aid the decision.
Categories face,
The Forward Lean
The person leans forward while the arms are open.
Agreement and Sympathy The person has a positive attitude towards the other.
He/She likes what the other says.
I like to listen to you.
Explanation
We lean towards people and things we like. If the other mirrors this behavior, it shows
harmony. The opposite occurs when we dislike someone or have little interest in
something.
The Shrug
Both shoulders are raised up evenly.

Unawareness or Ignorance The person does not understand or does not bother.
I know nothing about that.
Explanation
There are two versions of the shrug: Both shoulders raise uniformly towards the ears; or
the shrug is uneven. The first version suggests sincerity, the second may involve
deception.
Categories body
The Leg Cross
The person crosses legs relaxedly. One shoe may be tilted upwards.
Confidence The person is relaxed and feels comfortable.

Everythings fine.
Explanation
Crossed legs prevent us from escaping quickly. We only block ourselves if we feel
secure. Usually, the rest of the body shows a relaxed attitude.
Criminals may take this pose to pretend that everything is fine.
Categories legs/feet, easy
Thumbs Up
The hand clenches to a fist and the thumb points up.
Western Culture Super! or as a sign for hitchhiking or the number one.

Can I hitch a ride?
Mediterranean Inappropriate gesture similar to the American two fingers up.
You can lick my
Japan Five.
Explanation
Depending on the country this gesture has different meanings. This generally applies to
body language and here in particular.
The Barrier
The person holds an object between himself/herself and the other.
Defense and Protection The person feels insecure.

I would prefer a little more distance between us.
or Shyness The person feels uncomfortable.
Take it easy, I need time to assess the situation.
Explanation
The object acts as a barrier. It may be a briefcase, a chair, a laptop or a coffee cup.
Sometimes a situation arises such that an object is in the way, but nobody put it there
on purpose. Remove the obstacle in the way to create a more personal setting.
Categories body, uneasy,
The Plucker
The person tugs cuffs, sleeves or other clothing.
Nervousness This self-soothing gesture shows that the person is insecure.

Im anxious.
Explanation
The mechanical act occupies the hands and distracts from the situation.
The Four
One leg crosses the other. The ankle lies on the thigh.
Self-confidence The person feels safe and challenges the other or arguments against
the others point.
Lets see who has the better arguments!
Explanation
The gesture challenges the other. Sometimes one or two hands grab the crossed leg.
The gesture mixes self-confidence with dominance and relaxation. In Asia and Arabia,
showing the shoe sole is considered rude.
Categories legs/feet, easy, dominant
The Sphinx
The person touches the nose with a finger.

Skepticism The person is uncertain about the matter at hand.
I am not convinced by what I am saying or you are telling me.
or Calming If the person is emotionally involved, he/she wants to calm himself/herself
down.
I dont want to see or hear this.
Explanation
If a person feels uncomfortable e.g. when deceiving -, the breathing speed and heart
rate increases. As a result, the blood vessels in the nose expand. The tingling can
trigger the touch. The gesture is an indicator of discomfort it does not proof lying!
The Lint Picker
The caller interrupts eye contact and removes real or imaginary lint.
Rejection and Reservation The person does not like what he/she hears or thinks that
there is no place for his/her point of view. Alternatively, he/she dismisses an argument
figuratively.
I dont want to hear this.
Explanation
The lint picker is found when a person does not agree with the other person. The person
holds back expressing his/her opinion. Encourage the person to say what he/she thinks.
The Blow
The person gently smacks the head or forehead.
Realization The person notices a mistake or realizes that he/she forgot something.
Oh no, what have I done.
Explanation
The gesture often occurs with honest people. The slight blow to the head is like a
symbolic self-punishment. The blow shall re-establish order. A blow to the back of the
head or very vigorous rubbing shows that the incident bothers the person.
Categories face
The Pointer
The finger points at a person while holding eye contact.
Aggression The person attacks someone non-verbally.

This is your fault!
Explanation
Nobody likes it when being pointed at. This gesture can lead to aggression and fights.
Avoid this harsh gesture.
Categories arms/hands, dominant
The Half Barrier
One hand holds the arm or the other hand.

Defense and Protection The person feels insecure in the situation.
What is going to happen?
or Self-doubt The person does not feel up to the current socially tense situation.
Im not used to that much attention.
Explanation
Holding ones hand helps in difficult situations. It is reassuring and reminds us of
childhood days, when our parents protected us. The gesture is often seen when
someone enters a new group or receives an award. In this situation, the unexpected
attention causes discomfort.
Categories arms/hands, uneasy, submissive,
The Sprinter
The person leans forward while sitting. One leg is pulled back and the hands rest on the
chair or the knees.

Preparedness The person has a negative attitude and is ready to end the
conversation.
Lets move on!
Explanation
Also other signs, like packing up, grabbing for the jacket or collecting the handbag,
suggest that the person wants to go somewhere else. If you recognize this gesture, take
the initiative to end the conversation. This way, you stay in charge.
Categories body
The Mirror
People take similar poses and mirror movements.
Harmony People have the same opinion and want to reach an agreement.
We are on the same page.
Explanation
When mirroring, there is a dominant person who leads and a person that follows. Both
synchronize their movements. Subconsciously, trust is created among the two, because
the other is as I am. The opposite is the case if the body language differs greatly.
The Bow Back
The head is slightly tilted to the side.

Confidence and Reassurance The person wants to establish harmony.
Lets be friends again.
or Interest The person is interested in the other or the conversation.
I would like to learn more about it.
Explanation
The neck is vulnerable. When we bow back, we show that there is no harm coming from
us and we submit ourself to the other. Generally, a tilted head shows interest and may
as well be a flirt signal. If the person is also bent forward, the feeling is mutual. This
gesture is very low in authority.
Categories face, submissive, open
The Pointing Foot
Most of the weight is resting on one leg, while the other foot points in one direction.
Disinterest The person is not interested in the other person if the foot is turned away.
I would like go over there.
Attraction The person interested in the other person, if the foot points there (not
shown).
I find you attractive.
Interest The person is curious about the topic, if the foot points towards the
conversation partner (not shown).
I would like to learn more about it.
Explanation
The foot shows the direction, we find interesting. This can be toward or away from a
person. In the second case (as depicted), the other person should end the conversation.
The foot can also point towards the sky, e.g. during a phone call. This may indicate a
good mood.
Categories legs/feet
The Hand of Interest
The closed hand lays on the cheek.

Interest The person is interested in the subject. He/She appreciates the other person or
the topic of conversation.
Tell me more, I care about this topic.
Explanation
In most cases, the interested person is sitting upright or leans slightly forward to the
other person. Bending forward further, shows more interest in the conversation or the
person. The person is literally sitting on the edge of the seat.
Categories face
The Standby
The person leans forward while seated. One leg is pulled back and one hand rests on
the thigh.
Preparedness The person has a positive attitude and wants to move on.
Where can I sign?
Explanation
The position indicates that we are ready to go. Sales men should pay attention to this
sign before they ask for a decision. If this gesture is accompanied by stroking the chin
(decision-making), we are ready for the next step.
Categories body
The Mouthguard
The fingers cover the mouth

Cover or Shyness The hand shall hide is socially undesirable gestures such as yawns
or giggles.
Not everyone should see this.
Insecurity The person is not sure about what he/she says.
I can not guarantee that this is true.
Explanation
Covering the mouth is often used as an indicator for lies. This is mostly true for young
children. When growing up, we learn to hide our uncertainty and to avoid this gesture.
Often the person feels obligated to say something, but would rather not. Then the
answer is delayed.
Always remove your hand from the mouth when speaking.
Categories face,
The Breast Toucher
One or both hands touch the heart or chest.

Honesty The person wants to show, that you can trust him/her.
Lets be honest: You can trust me.
Explanation
Moving the hands to the chest shall demonstrate sincerity. The gesture is easy to fake
and it may be used consciously for example by sales man. If the gesture is shown as a
reaction, the person feels attacked and he wants to reaffirm his/her innocence. You can
not draw any conclusions about truthfulness from this gesture.
The Pointing Knee
The legs are crossed and one knee points in a direction.
Interest The person is interested in the person pointed at.

I want to learn more (about you).
Explanation
Our knee shows the direction the person is attracted to. The attraction may be towards
a person, an object or an exit. If the knee points away from something/someone, it
functions as a barrier.
Categories legs/feet
The Handrub
Hands or fingers are rubbed together.

Anticipation The person expects a joyful event.
This is going to be great!
or Insecurity The person has low self-esteem.
How can I get out of this mess?
Explanation
When doing this gesture, we look forward to something. This may as well be at someone
elses expense. Often, the look is unfocused for a moment, as if the person imagines the
event.
Caution: Strong rubbing may also mean that the person is cold or under stress.
Categories arms/hands, easy
The Stretch
The person pulls the collar away from the throat.
Stress or Anger or Constriction The person is emotionally heated.

I need a cool breeze now.
Explanation
This gesture is more commonly observed in men. Women may throw back their hair to
let the neck breathe. The Stretch is often associated with lies. As if the untruth causes
an itch or the difficulty to breath.
The Neck Massager
The person massages and squeezes the neck.

Stress The person feels uncomfortable.
I dont like this.
Explanation
This gesture is self-soothing. The largest nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system
resides around the stimulated area. This nerve lowers the heart rate when stimulated.
The Chin Stroker
The hand strokes the chin.
Insecurity The person needs time to consider the facts. He/she does not want to
respond immediately.
Let me think about this
or Stress The person is agitated and soothes himself/herself with this mechanical
movement.
This is too much!
Evaluation The person thinks about the situation/decision.
I am about to decide.
Explanation
The intensity of the strike makes a difference. Repeated strokes with heavy pressure
indicate stress; soft strokes show insecurity. Possibly, the person is faced with a decision
and tries make out the right answer.
Categories face
The Prayer
The hands are folded and pressed against the body.
Self-confidence The person is confident and has no intention to change his/her mind.
This is where I stand and I will not move!
Anger or Concern The negative feelings are compensated by strong embracing
oneself.
This can not be happening!
or Restraint The person is still assessing the situation and holds back to avoid rash
actions.
Well see how things will develop.
Explanation
There are three different positions: hands in front of the face, hands placed on the table
or hands in front of the crotch. The higher the hands are held, the stronger the signal.
Give the person something in his/her hand or bring him/her to do something else.
Categories arms/hands,
The Handshake
The person shakes hands with someone else.

Greeting, Farewell or Completion There are three different kinds of handshakes:
The dominant (palm facing down upper hand),
The equal (palm perpendicular) and
The humble (palms facing up underhand).
Explanation
In the past, management books recommended the dominant handshake. Today, this
behavior is deemed too aggressive. Therefore the equal handshake is preferred. During
this handshake the other should feel that there is a counterpart, but the others hand
shall not be squeezed too hard. A lax handshake (also called dead fish) is only
acceptable in Asia, where minimal physical contact is preferred. For photos, politicians
like to stand on the right of their partner, so the upper hand is more visible in the
photo. Thus, the status shown is higher.
The Tap
The fingers drum on a table or the persons body.
Impatience The person wants to be somewhere else or is under time pressure.

Please make your point now.
Frustration The person would like to interrupt the person speaking.
Stop talking. I dont like what youre saying.
Explanation
The non-verbal sound sends a clear signal of frustration. The louder and faster the
knocking, the more the person feels stress. Change the subject or end the conversation.
The Nod
The head is slightly tilted forward.

Disapproval The person has a critical, judgmental attitude about the other person or
the current topic.
I think nothing of it!
or Greeting The person nods and greets with a slight bow.
Hello!
Explanation
How long the head is tilted and the context provide changes the meaning of this
gesture: the longer the stare, the more disapproval. A critical look over the reading
glasses, reminds of a teacher and may be intimidating.
Categories face,
The Clinger
One or two hands hold on to a desk or chair.

Insecurity The person feels uncomfortable and seeks protection.
This situation is very unfamiliar.
Explanation
We cling to objects when we seek protection. They serve as a barrier and holding on
keeps our hands under control. At the same time, this gesture takes the freedom to
move. This gesture should be avoided in presentations, so the speaker remains flexible.
Categories arms/hands, uneasy,
The Recliner
The body is open and leans back relaxed.

Self-confidence The person is relaxed and feels good.
Everything is fine.
Explanation
An open posture makes us vulnerable. We open ourselves, if we have nothing to fear
and feel confident.
The Head Rest
The head rests on the hand.
Disinterest or Boredom or Fatigue The head rests on the hand and the person does
not follow anymore.
I would like to do something different now.
Explanation
This pose shows that the person has no interest in the topic (anymore). He/She does not
interrupt but awaits the situations end. The more the head is supported, the stronger
this sign is.
Categories face
The Thumb Pointer

The hands are in the pockets and the thumbs are visible.
Sovereignty and Self-confidence The person has a high status.

I know that I am good.
Sexuality The person is looking for a partner.
Look at my genitals.
Explanation
The visible thumbs indicate dominance and sovereignty, no matter if the hand
disappears in your pocket or holds the lapel. This gesture is a common sign that
someone feels comfortable. It may also indicate low status, if the thumb disappears in
the pocket. Gestures showing a low status should be to be avoided especially by
persons in executive positions.
Categories arms/hands, easy, dominant
Eye Movements
The eyes focus in multiple imaginary triangles.
Eye Movement The view focuses either between

(A) eyes and forehead (business look)
or (B) eyes and mouth (friendly look)
or (C) eyes and chest or crotch (intimate look).
Explanation
If eyes meet for more than two thirds of the time, the other person is either interested
(dilated pupils) or he/she puts out a non-verbal challenge (constricted pupil). If a person
likes the other, he/she often looks back. This has the effect that the other person may
realize that he/she is liked.
Categories face
The Nose Compactor
The fingers clench the noses bridge and the eyes are closed.
Overload The person is tired and overwhelmed by the situation.

This is too much.
Isolation The person shields himself/herself from the outside world.
I need to compose myself.
Explanation
Our brain reacts to unpleasant situations by looking away or closing eyes. By avoiding
eye contact, the mind selects which information is perceived and which gets discarded.
A person can recover and get back into the situation by fading out the environment.
Categories face, uneasy
The Cowboy
The body leans back and the crotch is clearly visible.
Self-confidence The person feels very safe in what he/she is doing.

Come if you dare!
Explanation
The presentation of the crotch is an act of dominance and challenges the other. At the
same time, it is a sexual signal that is deemed inappropriate in most cultures.
Categories body, easy, dominant, territorial
The Roof
The finger tips touch and the hands and form a triangle.
Self-confidence and Sovereignty The person is convinced of what he/she says and
does.
The situation is as follows
Interest The person listens closely, yet preserves a professional distance.
Your statements are very well thought out.
Explanation
There are two forms of the Roof. If the fingers point upwards, the person is probably
speaking. If they are pointing downwards the person is listening. Women often use the
gesture around the waist level. Body language trainers recommended this pose to
people who have trouble positioning their hands. German Chancellor Angela Merkel
often poses like this in photos.
Categories arms/hands, easy
The Hip Stem
The hands touch the hip, while all fingers are visible in the front.
Dominance and Aggression The person has no fear and claims authority.
This is my turf!
Explanation
This posture makes the person appear wider. It comes across as aggressive and should
only be used rarely. Yet, the gesture emphasizes authority. If the fingers and thumbs
point downwards, the meaning is weakened.
Categories body, dominant, territorial
The Turtle
The person crouches with the shoulders pulled up.
Insecurity and Fear The person has little self-confidence and does not want to attract
attention.
Please let me disappear now.
Explanation
We make ourselves small, avoid eye contact and limit our movements to a minimum, if
we want to appear invisible. The head is protected by this shrunk posture. This gesture
appears mostly with people who have low self-esteem. For example, shoplifters or illprepared speakers exhibit this body language.
Categories body, uneasy, submissive,

Body Language 1

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Body Language 1

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The Cobra

underlines his/her high status.

Self-confidence The person feels safe and

Distance and Defense The person has a

The Lint Picker

Rejection & Reservation

Self-confidence The person is relaxed and feels good.

Skepticism The person is uncertain about

Western Culture Everything is OK or if a speaker wants to emphasize a point.

The Open Hands

The Double Handshake

Trust The person wants to strengthen the personal bond.

The person doodles or draws without a particular goal.

The Upper Grip

Discomfort The person feels insecure.

Each situation requires a different distance to the other person.

Distance 0-15cm (~5) -> very close intimate space

The palms face upwards or downwards.

The person ushers the other or offers a seat.

The feet teeter stronger than before.

Nervousness, Excitement or ImpatienceThis self-soothing gesture shows that the

The palms are spread-out on the table.

The Watch Watcher

The person looks at his/her watch or a clock in the room.

Impatience or Boredom The person wants to end the conversation.

The person straightens the tie.

The hand holds the other wrist behind the back.

The Eye Wiper

One or more finger rubbing over the upper or lower eyelid.

The Leg Barrier

The wrist shows openly.

Trust The person wants to strengthen the personal bond.

The Pen Nibbler

An object, such as a pen or lens, is lead to the mouth.

Hovering or Concentration The person is reflecting what best decision or solution

The Forward Lean

The person leans forward while the arms are open.

Both shoulders are raised up evenly.

The Leg Cross

Confidence The person is relaxed and feels comfortable.

The hand clenches to a fist and the thumb points up.

Western Culture Super! or as a sign for hitchhiking or the number one.

The person holds an object between himself/herself and the other.

Defense and Protection The person feels insecure.

The person tugs cuffs, sleeves or other clothing.

Nervousness This self-soothing gesture shows that the person is insecure.

The person touches the nose with a finger.

The Lint Picker

The person gently smacks the head or forehead.

The finger points at a person while holding eye contact.

Aggression The person attacks someone non-verbally.

The Half Barrier

One hand holds the arm or the other hand.

chair or the knees.

People take similar poses and mirror movements.

The Bow Back

The head is slightly tilted to the side.

The Pointing Foot

The Hand of Interest

The closed hand lays on the cheek.

The fingers cover the mouth

The Breast Toucher

One or both hands touch the heart or chest.

The Pointing Knee