Body
language refers to the gestures, postures, and facial expressions by
which a person manifests various physical, mental, or emotional states and
communicates non-verbally with others. The ability to understand and use nonverbal
communication, or body language, is a powerful tool that can help you connect
with others, express what you really mean, and build better relationships.
I have read some articles regarding body language, on how to improve and
understand the use of gestures when communicating with others.
One of the articles I've read was the “Nonverbal Communication - Improving Your Nonverbal Skills and Reading Body Language” by Jeanne Segal,
Ph.D., Melinda Smith, M.A., Greg Boose, and Jaelline Jaffe, Ph.D.
They said that non
verbal communication matters because through non verbal communication we can
improve our relationship with others. The way we listen, look, move, blink and
react tells other person whether we care or not. And when these gestures match
with what we are saying, we can gain their trust, clarity and build a rapport.
One of the authors
said “If you want to communicate effectively, avoid misunderstandings,
and enjoy solid, trusting relationships both socially and professionally, it’s
important to understand how to use and interpret nonverbal signals.” I think this one is true, because what you communicate through
your body language and nonverbal signals affects how others see you, how well
they like and respect you, and whether or not they trust you.
Another good article about body language was written by Kendra Cherry
Psychology Expert with a
title “Understanding Body Language”. According to Cherry, various researchers said that body
language is thought to account for between 50 to 70 percent of all
communication.
She said “Understanding
body language is important, but it is also essential to remember to note other
cues such as context and to look at signals as a group rather than focusing on
a single action.” I definitely agree with her, let us think how much a
person can convey a message with just a facial expression. For example, a smile
can indicate approval or happiness, the eyes reveal a great deal about what a
person is feeling or thinking. Body language is important because it helps us
to express our feelings, for instance if we do not like someone,
it is often difficult to say that directly to the person. However we can make
it clear either intentionally or unintentionally through body language.
Oftentimes, our facial expressions may reveal our true
feelings about a particular situation. With the use of body language, our life
can be more colorful and lively. Maybe we just have to be more conscious with
our actions to convey the message clearly and effectively with the use of body
language.
