Reading body language can be a powerful tool in understanding the true feelings and intentions of others during conversations. However, it's important to approach body language with caution, as cues can vary widely depending on the individual and cultural context. Here are some key tips and insights from Redditors on how to read body language effectively:

General Tips on Reading Body Language

• Feet Direction: Pay attention to where someone's feet are pointing. If they are turned away from you, it might indicate a desire to end the conversation. "Feet point to what we're interested in. If you're talking to someone and they only turn their torso to talk, they're likely just being polite and don't wanna chat"

• Quick Head Nods: Quick nods can signal that someone wants you to hurry up. "I learned that if someone nods their head quickly they want the person they’re listening to to hurry up"

• Crossed Arms: This can indicate discomfort or a defensive stance. "I read that if someone has their arms crossed in some way over their bodies, then that is a sign that they’re uncomfortable and untrusting towards you."

Signs of Attraction

• Eye Contact: Prolonged eye contact can be a sign of interest. "Eye contact while talking. Biting her lip."

• Physical Proximity: People who are attracted to you may try to get physically closer. "Sitting close to you. Eye contact while talking. Biting her lip."

• Body Orientation: If someone's body is oriented towards you, it can indicate interest. "Body oriented towards you (belly button, feet), eye contact, dancing together or dancing in eye-sight."

Signs of Discomfort or Disinterest

• Avoidance of Eye Contact: This can be a sign of discomfort or disinterest. "First row: There are cultures where making eye contact is seen as a sign of disrespect."

• Fidgeting: Fidgeting or restless movements can indicate discomfort. "All those Discomfort signs are just typical ADHD/ASD signs."

• Steepling Hands: This can be a sign of arrogance or a desire to dominate the conversation. "Steepling hands is not fucking confidence. It's a pedantic sign of someone putting on an innocent face when they're not."

Cultural and Individual Variations

• Cultural Differences: Body language cues can vary significantly across cultures. For example, in some cultures, direct eye contact can be seen as disrespectful. "First row: There are cultures where making eye contact is seen as a sign of disrespect."

• Individual Variations: People may have unique body language habits due to personal traits or conditions like ADHD or autism. "All those Discomfort signs are just typical ADHD/ASD signs."

Consent and Communication

• Enthusiastic Consent: Body language can help determine if consent is enthusiastic. "Consent needs to be ENTHUSIASTIC, for it to be real consent. And how do you tell that? Through a mix of body language and verbal cues."

• Reading Politeness vs. Enthusiasm: Learn to distinguish between polite body language and genuine interest. "You have to learn the difference between politeness and enthusiasm. The cues are there if you learn to tune in."

Subreddits for Further Questions

• r/coolguides

• r/AskReddit

• r/dating

These subreddits can provide additional insights and personal experiences on reading body language.