Shaping

Techniques > Use of body language > Core patterns > Shaping

Pattern | Found in | Discussion | See also

Pattern

What is being described is literally carved out what is from the air in front of the person.

Hands are the main implements, shaping the item being described.
Arms may also be important, particularly when shaping something big. For something very big, the person may move the rest of their body, reaching up on the toes.
Fingers can be used to shape something small.
Words may be shaped with the lips.

Found in

Discussion

When people talk, they use their whole body to describe what they are talking about, shaping what they are saying as a reinforcement and emphasis of their words.

Often ideas are shaped as well as physical items.

We may also shape how we feel. Fear makes small. Anger makes us want to fight. Desire makes us want to hold and make love. Envy may make us want to strangle someone. Happiness can make us feel light and floating.