The concept of holistic health is based on the principle of helping people recover from physical and mental illness by treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. It’s based on the belief that physical symptoms of an illness can be directly associated with a person’s mental or emotional state and vice-versa. As a friend, parent, or partner, you are probably saying more with these two forms of non-verbal communication than you might care to realize.
Body Language
Your bodily movements say a lot about how you truly feel about a situation. Think about the last time you were on a job interview. Were you careful about how you stood, where you placed your hands, and what other body movements you made? You knew your interviewer was watching you closely. This is how he or she will judge your character in order to decide to hire or not hire you. Take this same kind of consideration with your co-workers, friends, and significant others. Take special care how you present yourself through your posture, so you are truthful with your body language, especially with those you care about the most.
Active Listening
Active listening is a communication technique that many therapists and counselors use to engage with their patients, and you can use it too. The method involves paying close attention to what the other person is saying without needing to react by replying too quickly. Make eye contact with the speaker, and ask clarifying questions if you did not really understand what he or she meant. Don’t be quick to judge; be patient, and consider what the other is saying before attempting to reply. Active listening can help prevent things like divorce, arguments, feeling alone, and being misunderstood because it can help people make sure they are on the same page and heading in the same direction.
Facial Expressions
Think about the last time someone asked you how you were doing on a day when you were tired, frustrated, or angry. You probably said you were fine, but the look on your face might have said otherwise. Unfortunately, most people do show one emotion while feeling another daily without even realizing it. This kind of behavior sends mixed messages that can cause confusion and misunderstandings.
A great way to avoid communication issues is to be as truthful as you can be in everything you say and do. Your micro-expressions reveal your true emotions, so it would be more beneficial for you, your friends, and co-workers if you were just honest about how you felt. Do this while taking care not to offend them or others. It takes a constant state of self-awareness to pull off truthful expressions and body language, but you can practice every day. The confusion and time it will save you will make it well worth the effort.
To learn how to communicate more effectively, you need to know how to listen and communicate with yourself. Alise Spiritual Healing & Wellness Center is here to help!
