Do you use hand gestures when you talk? Do you open your mouth and eyes wide when you are surprised? These are all examples of body language. How important can it be? Follow these and have a look.
Body language does not use words. It uses the movement or position of your body to show certain meanings. According to American scientist Edward T. Hall, in a conversation between two people, 65 percent of communication is body language. In some cases you even express yourself without words. For example, if your friend asks you to join him on a picnic, you will give him an "OK" gesture to say"Yes, sounds great！" Sometimes, your words say one thing, but your body language says another. You may do things unconsciously(无意识地) like touching your face while telling a lie.
In different cultures, the same body language means different things. In the US, making eye contact(眼神交流) with someone means you are interested in what the person is saying. But in some Asian countries, it is rude to look into a person's eyes during a conversation.
Sometimes, different body language expresses the same meaning. Take "hello" for example. French people kiss cheeks (脸颊) to say hello. Japanese people bow(鞠躬). Maoris in New Zealand, however, touch noses in greeting.
What are you trying to say?
Body language is important to teenagers. Understanding this language helps you to communicate better with others.
