Open Postures

- Welcoming, non-threatened kinesics.
- Open to ideas and communication.
- Relaxed and genuine.
- Non-deceitful and trusting.


​​Direct eye contact, but not staring
Warm, slow, open smile (teeth revealed)
Nodding
Head tilted
Open, inclusive gestures (palms showing)
Fully facing others
Leaning forward
Upright but relaxed posture
Firm handshake or double hand clasp handshake
Feet firmly planted
Chin up
Mirroring
Eyebrow flash upon greeting

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BACK TO INDICATORS
Closed Postures

​- Non-welcoming, threatened  kinesics.
- Closed to ideas and communication.
- Tense and distant.
- Deceitful and untrusting.


​​​Eye contact not met or direct hard staring
Tight, asymmetrical, fast or no smile
Down and away or dropped glances
Not fully facing, at an angle
Leaning away
Hunched shoulders, chair tick
Too-stiff posture
Weak handshake
Chin into chest
Arms crossed or Legs crossed
Legs outstretched while seated, feet tapping into floor
Absent-minded gazes
“Fig leaf” posture
This video shows "mirroring," a body language indicator that is considered to be "open." 

​​During everyday interactions this is a powerful tool and an easy sign that the person is "on your side."