Learn to Speak Body Language

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