A Practical Guide To Body Language Around The World

Ever heard of the phrase, “Different cultures, different fingers”? Of course you haven’t, because we just made it up! But think about it. Do we all use our fingers in the same way around the world? Or arms, or eyes, or lips for that matter?

Nonverbal communication—expressing ourselves through body language—is often where most conversations begin. When we don’t speak the same language, body language is sometimes all we’ve got. Even when we do speak the same language, we tend to make an effort to look good, walk a certain way, and give eye-contact that can’t be misunderstood. Why do we try so hard?

We yearn to connect, to understand and be understood. We want to be people that anyone, anywhere can call their friend. Connecting across cultures, especially, makes us more well-rounded, more flexible, more empathetic people. Not only that, but as Rev. Sun Myung Moon affirms, breaking barriers between cultures, especially through intercultural marriage, is an essential step toward world peace.

Whether it’s world peace or a peaceful encounter with the next person we meet, wouldn’t it eliminate a lot of misunderstandings if everyone was aware of the cultural standards for expressing respect, consideration and gratitude? For example, the so-called “universal” symbol for peace, in some countries, is a hand-gesture telling people off. In short, to be a unifying agent, we need to master the art of communication.

Here are just a few tips you can practice to speak the world’s body languages and become the next global citizen.

Korea

When giving and receiving things, it is considered polite to use two hands. Your left hand should be occupied, either supporting your elbow, or also being used to hand the object off. Calling somebody over should be done with your hand facing downwards and only to someone younger than yourself. Also, when meeting someone for the first time, a half-bow is common. Here is a video that details other cultural differences between Korean culture and Western [Canadian] culture:

Japan

Like Korean culture, Japanese culture encourages extreme politeness and emphasizes one’s position in society. Sometimes it takes a few back-and-forth motions to decide who will walk first through a doorway. Maybe Japan is where the “don’t eat the last bite” rule came from! In all seriousness, though, people from Japan are very polite and considerate.

It’s also helpful to know that Japanese people don’t keep eye-contact, in order to avoid offending someone with their perceived glare. They also greet with a half-bow. For a lighthearted and very thorough guide on Japanese gestures, check out this helpful site.

English Speaking Countries

The UK tends to be a more “non-contact” culture than America: even brushing up against someone warrants an apology. Gayle Cotton tells us that “it’s important to take heed of where you are in the world” when using a peace sign, “because if you make this gesture with your palm facing inward” in Australia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and other countries throughout the world, it’s offensive. In Western cultures, especially North America and the UK, people view silence as awkward and uncomfortable. Many western cultures also consider eye contact to be a sign of assertiveness.

Sweden

Lana Winter-Herbert tells us to keep personal distance in Sweden, and that it too is a “non-contact” culture. She also tells us to “ensure proper table manners, never discuss religion or politics, and try to maintain a level of quiet dignity. Silences during conversations are not considered uncomfortable, and it’s better to be a bit quiet, rather than overly verbose.”

Mexico

Avoid making the “O.K.” sign with your hands, it’s offensive. Women should initiate handshakes with men, and avoid making too much eye contact; that can be seen as aggressive and belligerent behavior.

Germany

Like Mexico, the “O.K.” sign is considered offensive. Germany, like other Northern European countries and the Far East, is also a “non-contact” culture, but make sure your handshakes are firm!

France

In France, and even Spain or Italy, it’s common to greet a friend or family member with a kiss on both cheeks. Your lips don’t actually have to touch the person’s cheek, but go through the motions. Greet a stranger with a handshake.

Kenya

Instead of shaking hands, greet someone older or of a higher status than you by gripping their right wrist with your left hand while shaking it. This shows respect.

Latin America

Unlike the “non-contact” cultures, people of Latin America and Southern European countries lean in close when they speak to you, and touch you often during a conversation. Pulling away is considered rude.

We have to face many obstacles when we attempt to understand people who were raised with different customs. Father Moon says, “In order to accomplish such a great task, we need to draw from the immense power of love. Only the highest love can transcend national boundaries, racial boundaries, cultural boundaries and the boundaries of knowledge.” (God’s Way and the World, page 499)

The differences in cultures are beautiful, and understanding the practices of each can help us be globally minded and receptive to those around us. When we practice the lifestyle of a global citizen, we can practice giving “the highest love” and expand our global family.

Do you have friends from different countries who have made your lives richer? Let them know how much you appreciate them by sharing this article, and tell us your intercultural experiences in the comments!