Non-Verbal Communication

Become aware of your non-verbal messages, as these messages often have a greater impact on the communication than your words do. Others pay attention to your non-verbal messages, even when you don't notice the non-verbal messages you send. For example, when you are frustrated, your body may begin to show signs of frustration such as frowning, increased breathing, escalating volume, or flushed skin color. The other person may notice your body's signs of emotion before you are aware of these changes in your non-verbal communication.

Use your body's non-verbal expressions as additional information about yourself. Your body's cues can help you identify emotions while they are more easily soothed and resolved. these cues are your body communicating to you.

NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Keep an open posture.

Have your arms and legs uncrossed.
Face the person you are talking with.
Maintain eye contact.

Stay calm.

Do not allow yourself to become overly emotional.
If you feel angry, be responsible and manage your anger before verbalizing.
Use calm and assertive comments and requests. They are perceived as more valid than an angry outburst.

Be congruent.

Have all parts of your communication be in agreement with each other: words, tone of voice, and body language.
Incongruence occurs when there appears to be a lack of agreement between the various parts of expression.
An example of incongruence: thanking someone, and having a frown on your face.
Incongruence creates confusion. Congruence promotes clarity and understanding.
When it appears the other person's message is incongruent, use an "I Message" to bring attention to this. State that your goal in bringing attention is to decrease your confusion and increase your understanding of his/her message.
- If your loved one's words say she is happy to do what you asked, and her face has an expression of exhaustion and her tone of voice is irritated, comment about your confusion. Your comment or question may help her realize how tired she is. She may feel she wants to help you, but now realizes it may be best to say, "Yes, but I am too tired now. I will do it later".

Wisdoms Peaceful Harmony, Peace Psychology

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