their heads as if that would help them understand him better. By speaking
slowly, using simple terms, pointing in the right direction, and counting out
his fingers how long it would take them to get there – if they didn’t get lost –
he hoped that they understood him correctly. The final lift of the old woman’s
shoulders indicated that perhaps they had their doubts.Showing unwillingness to get involved ...........................................
In addition to conveying misunderstanding, lack of knowledge, and apology,
the shrug can also indicate an unwillingness to get involved. Because of the
submissive actions that make up a shrug – head pulled down into the shoul-
ders, open forward facing palms serving as a shield, raised eyebrows, and a
tilted head – the action indicates that you don’t want to be drawn in.Raising your shoulders is a defensive behaviour designed to protect your
neck, one of your body’s most vulnerable parts. By holding your open palms
in front of you you’re showing that although you have nothing to conceal
you’re also setting up a barrier between you and another person.Figure 7-5 shows someone who doesn’t want to get involved.Figure 7-5:
Forward
facing
palms serve
to push the
problem
away.122 Part III: The Trunk: Limbs and Roots