An expansive pose signals power and a sense of achievement.
An expansive pose signals power and a sense of achievement.
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How people hold themselves is a big clue as to how they're feeling. Harvard professor Amy Cuddy finds that expansive poses increase testosterone and confidence. If they're leaning back and relaxed, they feel powerful and in control. Similarly, research shows that even people born blind raise their arms in a V shape and lift their chins slightly when they win a physical competition.
On the other hand, a low-power pose — seen when someone closes up and wraps their arms around themselves —increases cortisol, a stress hormone.