Listen Like You Mean It: Reclaiming the Lost Art of True Connection

by Ximena Vengoechea

NONVERBAL GESTURES AND THEIR COMMON MEANINGS Zone Gesture Emotion Window into the Soul Eye contact Connection, confidence, focus Smiling Happy, cooperative, polite Frowning Sadness, confusion, worry Self-Regulating Neck touching Insecurity, distress, discomfort Hand on collarbone Concern, shock, stress Nail biting Boredom, unease, anxiety Clenched fists Frustration, anger, restraint Fidgety fingers, hand-wringing Nervousness, distress, worry Engagement Feet pointed away Ready to leave, disinterested Feet pointed toward Committed, interested Alliance Leaning toward Comfort, agreement Crossed arms Defensiveness, insecurity Open arms Receptive, eager, warm “Large” postures (outstretched arms and legs) Territorial, dominance “Small” postures (crossed arms and legs, hunched shoulders) Unease, lack of confidence