How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Opening

Techniques > Use of body language > Core patterns > Opening

Pattern | Found in | Discussion | See also

Pattern

'Opening' is a pattern of unfolding, removing protection and offering. For example:

Raising the head from a chin-down position to looking forwards.
Unfolding arms.
Holding open palms.
Spreading palms in an opening circular move around from front to side.
Turning hands over from palm-down to palms-up.
Pointing toes outwards, with splayed feet.
Standing with legs akimbo.

Found in

Discussion

Opening is a signal of readiness to listen and accept others. In particular the transition of going from closed to open shows a change of heart, of going from suspicion and anxiety to comfort and acceptance.

Openness exposes vulnerable areas to attack and is thus a symbol of trust. It shows that no weapons are concealed for example with open palms.

Being open also exposes sexual organs and thus it may be used in flirting. Allied to this is how it can be used in a display of power, which is used by men to warn off other men and demonstrate the ability to protect the family.

In an aggressive or power-based stance, openness says 'I do not stand defensively because I am not afraid of you.'