How can body language affect communication?

            Body language is something that differs from person to person and culture to culture.  Some of us are more prone to communicate with our bodies than words and vice versa.  When communicating with others, it is really important to consider what your body is communicating.  While our words are powerful, body language can be just as powerful and have a crucial impact on communicating.  The goal with body language is to be really in tune and mindful of what you are communicating, so you are not communicating something by accident.

            Body language can be overwhelming to think about in that there are so many different things we can communicate with our bodies.  However, it can be helpful to break it into two parts: upper body language and lower body language.  Out of the two, we definitely can communicate more with our upper body language.  Think about what your eyes, mouth, head, arms, and hands communicate the next time you communicate.  You can even practice in front of a mirror to ensure that the language you want to communicate translates.  For example, if you want to make sure you are communicating to someone that you are listening to them, you will want to make sure you look warm and inviting rather than cold and standoffish. 

            When focusing on your lower body language, focus on your feet, legs, and hips.  People can get somewhat fidgety with their legs and feet, so it is important to check in with yourself about what that looks like for you and what it communicates.  By no means do you have to be uncomfortable and not shift if you listen to someone, but if you fidget too much, it could communicate that you are uncomfortable. 

            Body language is important, but it is also important not to overthink it.  Try to take some of these practices and be mindful of what your body language communicates.  Practicing can be really helpful, and/or even asking trusted friends and/or family about your body language could give you great feedback.  Being mindful of your body language can help improve relationships, friendships, and even your career.