Conversely, the body influences the mind. Raised eyebrows augment surprise. Wrinkled noses exacerbate unpleasant smells. Lean right, objects seem shorter. Lean left, they seem larger. (Try it and watch the blog letters change size.)
I read in Psychological Science that standing in an expansive pose for over a minute amplifies confidence and increases testosterone. To prove the scientists wrong I stood in a Superman pose: arms akimbo, hands on hips, legs spread for two minutes. People at the Weight Club thought I was weird (I am). But I bench pressed 20 more pounds than usual.
The Superman or Superwoman pose creates a better interview or more self-assurance in meetings. Tip: Don't use this pose in the reception area; this pose is best practiced in a rest room stall (with the door closed).
The John Wayne pose (right arm bent at elbow, right leg flexed, left leg straight, left arm hanging by the side) enhances confidence. Using this pose from the platform relaxes the audience and improves listening. Hint: Don't use it for the entire speech. It will turn you into Michelangelo's statue of David and petrify the audience too.
The welcome posture, an open posture with arms and elbows away from the body, turns a sourpuss into a friend. It also builds confidence, encourages agreement and action.
Arms clinched, legs crossed, an upward chin signals arrogance at best, hostility at worst.
The wimp posture, head down, body slumped, ages a person and invites dominance from others.
Expansive yoga postures may decrease discomfort and reduce pain. Don't stretch too far. You may not be able to extricate yourself from the pose. This frozen posture causes pain.
The determined mom posture, crossing the arms, increases resolve and perseverance. It also keeps hands out of the cookie jar.
Tensing the muscles improves self-control and helps survive a dental visit. It also cries out for nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
Smiling improves mood. Repeatedly force your lips in an upward direction and you will begin to feel better.
The yes posture, nodding the head up-and-down, enhances positive thinking. It also causes customers to buy more cars and other products. People agree more.
Women who wear high heals buy less impulsively. Why? It seems that focusing on balance---standing on one foot for example--seems to reduce spending. It also may mean your feet are sore.
Of course, there are exceptions to every posture and posture changes differ from culture to culture. And body-mind research is just getting started. The scientific reports I cited may be proved untrue. I do know that they all work for me. Except wearing high heels.
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