Your Body’s Callin’!

Many of us have heard about “body language” (non verbal communication) but do we really know how important it is? Are we even conscious of it? When we communicate, our body language can be just as effective as our words. It can change the way we are perceived and convey our true feelings without our awareness. Body language can shape first impressions of a person’s true emotional state.

We can convey feelings and attitudes without speaking by many types of body language:

• The expression on our face/Nodding
• Eye contact
• Our posture
• What we are doing with our hands
• How we are sitting in a chair
• The expression in our eyes
• Are we fidgety?
• Stance
• Handshake

Angry body language includes clenched fists, red face, jaw clenching, finger pointing, frowned brow, stiff neck and shoulders and invasion of personal space. We recognize these in others but we need to be aware of our own.

Many of our anger management clients are sent by the courts because in a moment of unmanaged anger, they “reacted” rather than “responded”. They allowed their angry feelings get the best of them. Nowhere is body language more important then in a Court of Law.

Eye rolls, chewing gum, slouching in your chair with your legs out, an angry demeanor, or appearing indifferent or hostile can strongly impact the judge’s view of you. Often in court we don’t to talk very much, so the judge (and jury) are judging you by your body language.

Negative body language can greatly affect the outcome of your case.
Always practice neutral and respectful gestures and body language before you appear in court. Stay very aware of it the entire time you are in the courtroom. Don’t let your body language betray you and cause negative consequences. It’s your choice.

Susan Levy
Daybreak Counseling Service
www.daybreakservices.com
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855-NO ANGER
855- 662-6437