The Ultimate Body Language Book

overtly show that they are being infringed upon may also simply pull their heads back versus stepping
backwards. If you find that you are constantly moving forward, then it’s likely because your comfort
distance is less than the comfort distance of others.
Others might just show a bigger smile (possibly showing stress) and simply pretend that nothing is
bothering them, but as soon as eye contact is broken or when their speaking partner is distracted, will
take a step back. Others still, can pull their arms up and out to reserve space or can use their hand on
the sleeve of the other to keep them from advancing. Arm crossing also demonstrates a negative
posture and is used to shield the body so this can also indicate encroachment. Respecting other people’s
intimate zones is extremely important. Invading people’s space can cause anxiety, irritation, anger or
fear. If all else fails, you know you’ve exceeded the general personal space of others when your eyes
begin to fuzz or cross, or you feel the uncomfortable sensation of warm breath on your face. When all
else fails, take a step back and let them close the gap.
Chapter 4 – Space and Territory
Summary – Chapter 4
In this chapter we looked in depth about space or territory and how it influences body language. We
learned that the term applied to how people use space is proxemics and it includes personal space,
distance norms, how cultures and regionality such as rural and urban centers are reflected in personal
space, and how they relate to status and context. We learned why people turn into zombies in crowded
city streets, how eye contact can control intimacy and why we should respect people’s personal space
comforts no matter where they hail. We then played the urinal game and showed how space ties
together with this ritual, and finally we covered indicators of invasion which can help us in respecting
space limitations when in novel situations, or when around new acquaintances.