The Language of Movement 3

Continuing to look at the Language of Movement, we began with facial movements and looked at those that expressed emotion and are said to be universal, and those that differ in different cultures. Some facial expressions send messages of emotions, others send directions, intentions, and even warnings. Still others are intended to mask emotions. A comparison between Japanese and Arab people's expression of emotion in their facial and body movements revealed quite opposite behaviors.

We then looked at messages given with hands, and saw that most finger formations have different meanings in different cultures. Hands held out with palms up or extended with palms up or down also give different messages.

Arm movements and leg movements were also seen to give messages, some of which are invitations to a relationship of some sort, others are dismissive. Interpretations depend largely on the context in which the movements are made, and the mind-set, and expectations of the viewer.

When people pass on the street they follow the informal rule of "civil inattention": acknowledging the other person with brief eye contact (civil) and then lowering the eyes and turning them away from the other person to indicate that no further contact will follow (inattention). Greeting motions that often start with the "eyebrow lift" then can proceed to a smile, a gestural wave, a hug, or a kiss. Touching, handshakes, kisses and bows also vary form culture to culture.

Space is an important factor in giving body messages. The distances between people depend upon the types of relationships they have, and their openness (or lack of it) towards allowing other people into the group.

We can learn about ourselves and others by becoming more aware of these specific movements and considerating the possible interpretations available to us. If you have become more aware, and have noticed any specific movements of interest, please share them with us.