The Body Posture and its Emotional Impact

Open Posture vs. Closed Posture: Subconscious Reactions

Our body posture sends immediate and often subconscious signals to those around us.

A closed posture, such as slouching, crossing arms or legs, tends to be interpreted as disinterested, insecure or defensive.

This physical attitude can make others feel less comfortable interacting or sharing information.

In contrast, an open posture, characterized by an upright back, relaxed shoulders and uncrossed arms and legs, communicates confidence, approachability and a willingness to interact.

People react more positively and trust more those who adopt open postures, as these signals invite connection and convey confidence.

Projecting confidence and control: Shoulders back and head up.

One of the most direct ways to project confidence and control through body language is by adopting an upright posture.

Keeping your shoulders back, spine aligned and head high (with your chin parallel to the ground) instantly communicates confidence, alertness and readiness to lead.

This posture not only affects how others see us, but also makes us feel more capable and in control of the situation.

Avoid slouching or looking down is crucial, as these actions often send a message of insecurity or submissiveness.

A firm, upright posture is the physical foundation on which the perception of authority rests.

Posture influences your own hormonal chemistry.

The mind-body connection is bidirectional; our posture not only communicates our emotional state to others, but also actively influences how we feel internally.

Research in the field of "embodied cognition" suggests that adopting expansive and empowering postures can cause physiological changes, including alterations in our hormone levels.

Specifically, maintaining a confident posture may be associated with an increase in testosterone (linked to confidence and assertiveness) and a decrease in cortisol (the stress hormone).

This means that by consciously adopting a strong posture, we not only appear more confident, but we may also begin to feel more empowered and less stressed, creating a positive feedback loop.

Summary

Our posture sends immediate subconscious signals. A closed posture, such as slouching or crossing our arms, is interpreted as defensive, insecure or disinterested.

Conversely, an open posture, with an upright back and uncrossed arms, communicates confidence and approachability. Projecting control implies shoulders back and head held high.

The mind-body connection is bidirectional. Adopting expansive postures can positively influence our hormonal chemistry, increasing confidence and reducing stress.