How to Eliminate Gesture Parasites
Gesticulation (body language) is one of the three primary languages we use daily. Besides nonverbal language, we also use verbal language (voice) and the language of emotions (emotional intelligence). Body language and emotional language belong to primary forms of communication, which are also used by most animals. Through speech, we as a species developed intellect, and therefore consider verbal language primary. But this isn't so, as we continue to communicate through gestures and emotions, unconsciously transmitting signals to our conversation partners.
Gesture parasites are a subconscious psychophysical component of nonverbal language. They can only be mastered through recognition, awareness, and analysis of the reasons for their use. Typically, gesture parasites are manifestations of emotional reactions, as well as a person's psychophysical state, temperament, and character.
Among the most common gesture parasites are:
- Fine motor movements in hands (finger fidgeting, twisting rings or watches, playing with pens or pencils)
- Adjusting hair or glasses
- Rubbing hands
- Pointing finger gestures
- Walking, shuffling, or tapping feet
Any of these gestures has been ingrained through psychophysical development to the level of reflexive action, triggered by any emotional situation. At this time, the right hemisphere of the brain becomes active and begins to dominate over the left (rational) hemisphere, causing a person to act emotionally and nonverbally, mostly subconsciously. Therefore, you need to identify which specific gesture parasites you use and what to replace them with.
What you need to do:
Identify your gesture parasites. Ask friends, colleagues, or loved ones to help identify them; record a long presentation of yourself on video.
Replace all closed and emotional gestures with open ones. Stop using fists, pointing fingers, or fiddling with objects in your hands. Master new habits in stages.
First stage – develop the habit of not using closed and emotional gestures.
Second stage – begin consciously using open and meaningful gestures.
Constantly analyze other people's body language and gesture parasites. This will allow you to learn to become aware of your own movements as well.
Remember that gestures should be open, meaningful, and appropriate. It's precisely appropriateness that gesture parasites lack. Therefore, be conscious of your actions and successful in communications with anyone, anywhere, and anytime.
Mykola Ovcharov
