How to read body language like an expert

Over 70% of communication is non-verbal: expressions, gestures and posture convey more than we think and learning to interpret them can improve our relationships

Our body acts like a silent megaphone. It communicates even when we want to remain silent, betrays emotions we try to suppress, and sends signals that others often pick up on before we even speak. Have you ever walked into a room and sensed hostility without anyone saying a word? Or felt instinctively that someone wasn’t being sincere, even though their words were perfect? Welcome to the intriguing universe of nonverbal communication—the silent language that speaks louder than words.

The body doesn’t lie (even when we try)

Let’s be honest: we can attempt to deceive with words, but the body is an even bigger liar. Slouched eyes, fake smile, arms crossed like a make-believe wall—these are all expressions that betray what we actually believe. It’s estimated that based on some studies, over 70% of our communication is not verbal. This means that regardless of how great our words are, our body always sends a matching message.

And it is not only conscious movements, such as a firm handclasp or a warm embrace. It is also the unconscious micro-expressions—minute nuances that our conversation partner subconsciously catches.

Gestures and signals: how to read body language

You don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes to notice clandestine signals from others, but being observant can allow us to decipher the unwritten. Here are some important gestures and what they mean:

Eye Contact: a straight look expresses confidence, interest, or even flirting. Shifty eyes? Maybe you’re making them uncomfortable or lying. And if someone’s staring too hard? Watch out—they may be attempting to exert dominance or intimidate you.
Hands: an open, relaxed movement indicates trust. Fingers drumming on a table? Restlessness. Touching one’s face a lot? Maybe they’re unsure or anxious.
Posture: standing straight with open shoulders indicates confidence. Someone who curls inward may be feeling insecure or uncomfortable.
Legs: if a person has their legs crossed and their body turned away, they might already be mentally checked out of the conversation. Restless, bouncing legs? That often signals anxiety or eagerness to leave.
Tone of Voice: yes, even our voice is a part of nonverbal communication. A steady and clear voice can speak volumes of confidence, whereas a hesitant tone may indicate insecurity or emotion.

Why learning to read nonverbal communication matters

Reading between the lines is not an illusion for mentalists—it’s a skill that can be used to improve personal and professional relationships. Imagine a job interview: you might have the perfect resume, but if you slouch through the interview with sweaty palms, the interviewer will assume you’re unsure. Or imagine a first date—someone will say, “I like you,” but if they cross their arms and lean away from you, it might be time to lower your expectations.

And never forget how we are communicating. We get worried about what we say, forgetting our body can actually be sending out a different message. Good news? We can learn it. A quick deep breath, assertive standing and firm gaze will make the world of difference.

The body speaks. Let’s listen.

In a world of words, it’s usually gestures that tell us the truth. Deciphering the language of nonverbal communication is an important skill that allows us to connect with others more effectively—and get to know ourselves better. Because let’s face it, whether we like it or not, our body tells a story, and it is always saying more than we realize.

The article draws upon studies published and recommendations from international institutions and/or experts. We do not make claims in the medical-scientific field and report the facts as they are. Sources are indicated at the end of each article.

Hypertension: the hidden risk and the debate on how to measure it properly

Regularly monitoring your blood pressure is essential, but are you doing it right? New research suggests that lying down to take your readings may be more helpful.

Hypertension is one of the leading preventable and treatable causes of premature death worldwide. Measuring blood pressure at home on a daily basis is one of the most successful ways of controlling it. However, according to a new study, most people are not doing it correctly.

In fact, there has been a surprising disagreement on the best way to measure blood pressure. The controversy began several years ago when some studies suggested that people in the recumbent position could have a greater blood pressure than in the upright position.

The study

Harvard researchers tracked participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study for over 27 years, evaluating the correlation between blood pressure recorded in both the sitting and lying down positions, and cardiovascular disease. The study initially included over 13,000 adults, but the researchers excluded those who already had coronary artery disease, heart failure, or stroke at the beginning, which left 11,369.

The study revealed surprising results. Among participants, 16.4% of those without sitting hypertension had supine hypertension (blood pressure while lying down). Conversely, 73.5% of those who had sitting hypertension also had supine hypertension. In people who had only supine hypertension, the risk of cardiovascular events was similar to that in people who had hypertension in both positions.

For the study, high blood pressure was defined as systolic (the upper number) readings of 130 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic (the lower number) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher.

From these findings, the researchers pointed out that, compared with sitting-only hypertension, supine hypertension has greater risks for:

Coronary artery disease (60% greater risk)
Heart failure (83% greater risk)
Stroke (86% greater risk)
Fatal coronary artery disease (more than twice the risk)
Overall mortality (43% increased risk)

Although the study strongly promotes the supine hypertension consideration, it also raises more questions. Would targeted therapies for supine hypertension have salutary effects on outcomes? How does this condition connect to nocturnal hypertension? Future studies can follow these and other paths as well as improve approaches to blood pressure management under varying conditions.

Source: JAMA