Reading body language can be a powerful tool in understanding people, but it's important to approach it with caution and awareness of its limitations. Here are some key insights and tips from Redditors on how to read body language in conversations:

General Tips

• Practice and Observation: Regularly practice by observing people in various settings. "I had a lot of fun just sitting on a bench outside and trying to understand the backstory and(or) emotions of people passing by."

• Read Books and Watch Videos: Educate yourself with resources and books on body language. "Read a lot of books and internet stuff. Books about body language, for example from Joe Navarro is a good start."

• Understand the Context: Body language can vary based on cultural and individual differences. "There are cultures where making eye contact is seen as a sign of disrespect."

Specific Cues to Look For

• Eye Contact: Pay attention to the duration and frequency of eye contact. "If they look for you. Like if you’re in a restaurant or a bar and you make eye contact, if you move and look over at them and they’re into you then they’ll look at where you were and then look around to find you."

• Facial Expressions: Look for micro-expressions and genuine smiles. "It took me a while to figure out micro expressions in order to read people."

• Body Orientation: Observe if the person's body is oriented towards you. "Body oriented towards you (belly button, feet)."

• Gestures and Posture: Notice hand gestures, posture, and any signs of discomfort. "All those Discomfort signs are just typical ADHD/ASD signs."

Common Misinterpretations

• Avoid Over-Reading: Be cautious about interpreting single cues in isolation. "Reading body language is not an exact science."

• Consider Individual Differences: People with conditions like ADHD or autism may exhibit body language that can be misinterpreted. "I have/am both and display every discomfort sign, even when I'm fine lol."

Recommended Resources

• Books:

  • "What Every Body is Saying" by Joe Navarro

  • "The Definitive Guide To Body Language" by Allan & Barbra Pease

• Shows:

  • "Lie To Me"

Subreddits for Further Learning

• r/bodylanguage

• r/coolguides

• r/AskReddit

By following these tips and utilizing the recommended resources, you can improve your ability to read body language and better understand the people around you.