How To Read Body Language: Know Potential Signs

Although interpreting body language may not be an exact science, nonverbal communication often gives us clues as to how a person may be feeling. A person who is attracted to you might adjust their outfit to look their best, maintain eye contact, touch your arm lightly, and offer a genuine smile. They might also blush, remain close to you physically, and take on a more confident stance. When you’re in doubt as to what a person’s body language cues mean, it’s usually best to have a conversation with them so that you can determine how they’re feeling. For more personalized guidance regarding communication and body language, it may be helpful to schedule a session with a therapist in person or online.

Potential signs of attraction 

Below, you’ll find several forms of body language that may indicate attraction. However, please note that these signs are not necessarily guarantees of attraction. What one person may find attractive often differs from what another person finds attractive. Additionally, the way men perceive the female body may differ from the way women perceive the female body. Perceptions are highly variable. There may be other situations in which you may see these signs, and they may be indicative of other types of emotions.

How to read body language

In contrast to the signs listed below, looking away and crossing their arms may indicate a person is not interested in you.

Adjusting appearance or outfit

If someone is adjusting their hair or clothing or moving around a lot, they could be nervous, or they might care about the way they're presenting themselves. If they're concerned about how they're presenting themselves, it may be a good sign because they desire your attention and want to look their best.

Eye contact

If you're making eye contact with someone and they don't break away immediately, or they do and then look back at you, it could be a sign that they have noticed you and wouldn't mind more interaction with you. Eye contact during conversation usually conveys interest, so if there is a lot of eye contact during a conversation, your companion may be interested in what you're saying. Looking away, checking a phone, watching the door, and other looks away may be signs of distraction or disinterest.

Touching

Casual arm brushes or light touches during conversation may be a sign that further physical contact is welcome. If you don't know someone well, it can be important to err on the side of caution, as you may not know what types of physical contact they find comfortable. Some people may hug everyone they meet, even strangers, while others may be more guarded with physical contact. 

Blushing

Sexual arousal and attraction can cause a person's cheeks to flush. Blushing can also happen when people are nervous, embarrassed, or scared. It can be helpful to take note of other signs if you notice someone is flushed.

Smiling

Smiles can speak a thousand words. A genuine smile typically includes movement around the eyes and lips as both become upturned. If the mouth moves and the eyes don't, the smile may not be genuine.

Posture and closeness

When people are attracted to someone, they may lean in, slide closer, or point their bodies or legs toward the target of their attraction. If this is happening, your companion may be interested in spending more time with you.

Some people may extend to their full height and square their shoulders if they're attempting to attract another person.

The potential importance of learning how to read body language

It may be true that words aren’t always enough, but words may still hold value. Honest and open communication can be key to starting and continuing a good relationship, whether that’s a friendship or a romantic relationship. Much of the communication between people may be nonverbal. You might already notice some of these things subconsciously, and now that you've read this article, you may pay more conscious attention to body language.

While understanding body language can be a good way to help yourself feel more comfortable about taking the next step with someone, whether that means asking them on a date or leaning in for the first hug or kiss, it can be important not to rely on body language alone. When things aren't clear, it can be best to speak up and use your words to make your intentions clear.

Online therapy can improve your communication skills 

If you are struggling with communication or relationships, connecting with a licensed therapist online can be an excellent way to start improving your communication skills. 

In general, online therapy is just as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy in treating symptoms of mental illness, and sometimes, it can be even more effective than traditional therapy. 

Benefits

Online therapy frequently comes with other added benefits as well. For example, it can be reachable for people who live in remote areas or people who have physical disabilities. Many people also say that they often feel more comfortable talking to their therapist and being honest when the interaction is via video call and not face-to-face.

Takeaway

Learning the skill of reading body language signs and facial expressions may help you determine if someone is attracted to you. Men and women use body language to convey when they are attracted to another person. Physical signs of attraction may include eye contact, physical touch, genuine smiles, and close proximity. A person who blushes, adjusts their appearance, or changes their stance to appear more attractive may be attracted to you. However, many of these signs can also indicate different emotions and are not necessarily a guarantee that a person is attracted to you. You may receive more detailed insight regarding body language and communication by working with a licensed therapist.