Невербальная коммуникация. Non-verbal communication

Gestures are various movements of the hands and head. Sign language is the most ancient way of achieving mutual understanding. The specific meaning of individual gestures varies across cultures. So we are so used to the generally accepted meaning of gestures that, once abroad, we can find ourselves in a very awkward situation. For example, the gesture “OK” is perceived positively and implies that everything is in order in Russia, the USA, Australia, Great Britain and Canada, but in France it expresses negative emotions and means that the subject of conversation is not worth any attention. In Brazil, this is how the backside is shown, and in Turkey and Greece this gesture is used if they want to talk about a person’s non-traditional orientation. If in Australia, Europe or the USA you beckon someone with your finger, you will be clearly understood, perceiving this gesture as a beckoning gesture. But in Asia it is a sign of strong insult. In the Philippines, you can even go to jail for it: there you use your finger to call animals or an interlocutor who is not respected.

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that we mustn’t underestimate non-verbal means of communication because it’s a very important source of information about our interlocutor, his personality, his feeling and emotions. They also help to establish contact with foreigners, prepare for a trip to another country. Although non-verbal communication is often an unconscious process, it is now quite well studied and can be successfully controlled to achieve the desired effect. Understanding the intricacies of body language can improve and simplify your relationships with people around you.

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