Find out what 10 common poses people often strike indicate about what they are thinking.
Body language — the physical expression of thoughts and feelings — can sometimes convey messages more eloquently than the spoken word. Here are a few common movements that can help you easily decipher what others may be thinking, as well as master your own telltale body language.
Body language: Crossed legs or arms
What it may mean: May indicate discomfort or defensiveness
Body language: Picking dust or lint from clothes
What it may mean: May indicate a lack of interest or an objection to what is being said
Body language: Frequent fingering of a collar or touching the neck
What it may mean: May show lying, shyness, or nervousness
Body language: Blushing
What it may mean: May indicate shyness or embarrassment
Body language: Hands behind the head, leaning far back in a chair
What it may mean: May signal arrogance; an “I’m in charge” attitude
Body language: Hands on hips, legs astride
What it may mean: A “don’t-mess-with me” pose
Body language: Darting eyes
What it may mean: May indicate shyness or lying
Body language: Fidgeting with a button or twisting a ring around a finger
What it may mean: May indicate discomfort or shyness
Body language: Open arms
What it may mean: May indicate a receptive attitude
Body language: Mirroring the behavior of someone else
What it may mean: A sign of interest or physical attraction