Crossing

Techniques > Use of body language > Core patterns > Crossing

Pattern | Found in | Discussion | See also

Pattern

'Crossing' involves moving parts of the body across one another or the body, in a defensive act.

Crossing arms across the body.
Crossing just the hands or wrists.
Holding hands.
Inter-twining the fingers.
Crossing legs, either above the knee or at the ankles.

Found in

Discussion

Crossing is usually an act to cover up the torso, defending it from attack. The torso contains important organs, whilst the arms, particular on the outside, are just muscle, which can be re-grown.

Crossing also increases the tension in the body and a person who is feeling stressed may do this in echo of how they feel.

Crossing arms or legs can also just be a relaxed position. Never take crossing as indicating defensiveness unless there are other indicators of tension.