Loading cart contents...
The Body Speaks: How We Communicate Without Saying a Word
When we speak of “language,” our immediate thought usually turns to verbal language—communication through words. However, nonverbal language, all communication that doesn’t involve words, permeates every human interaction.
Most of us have certainly experienced making ourselves understood and understanding others, feeling emotion and conveying feelings without uttering a single word. In fact, some scientific studies estimate that up to 80–93% of our communication effectiveness depends on nonverbal cues.
This form of communication encompasses a rich spectrum of signals: facial expressions, gestures, body posture, eye contact, tone of voice, physical touch, behavior and movement in physical space, and even appearance or personal adornments like the clothes and accessories we choose.
It’s interesting to take a closer look at what nonverbal communication comprises.
We can, in a simplified summary, say that it involves:
-
Facial expression (Do we smile? Raise our eyebrows? Furrow our brow? Open our mouth in laughter?)
-
Gestures (Do we make direct, decisive gestures? Speak with our hands? Rest our hand on our face while listening to someone speak?)
-
Body posture and movement (Are we standing upright? Slouching? Crossing our arms in front of us? Do we stay in one place or constantly adjust our position?)
Looking even closer, we can appreciate ocular behaviors and movements (Do we look people in the eyes? Stare? Avoid eye contact? Glance around or focus on one point/person? Blink frequently?) and how we use personal physical space (Do we get very close to others? Keep our distance? Step back when someone approaches?).
All of this communicates—and communicates about us—to others at every moment. It profoundly impacts how we “color” our interactive experiences, both in real time during the interaction and later in how we remember those situations.
Mastering nonverbal language is essential for developing emotional intelligence, fostering trust, and enriching human relationships—from the most intimate to the professional.
In the next article, I will focus on the place of dance within nonverbal languages, since it is a universal and embodied language—a form of intuitive, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant communication that transcends words.
Learn More
Diana Mota studied contemporary dance and improvisation. She later deepened her study in dance, psychotherapy, mental health, and leadership. She is a teacher, clinical supervisor, dance-movement psychotherapist, and drama therapist in mental health services. She leads inclusive theatre and dance sessions for people with intellectual developmental disorders.
dmt_terapia@riseup.net
Association of Residents and Entrepreneurs of Beato (AMEBEATO)
At AMEBEATO, we are the neighbors and entrepreneurs of Beato joining forces. Come with us to create a more connected, sustainable neighborhood filled with culture. Join us and be part of this change!
#NONVERBALLANGUAGE #EMOTIONALINTELLIGENCE #EFFECTIVECOMMUNICATION #BODYEXPRESSION #DANCEASLANGUAGE