Keep an eye on your fingers!

With tabloid and online articles dedicated to her somehow ‘awkward’ gestures, American actress Kristen Stewart (photo) has become an intriguing subject when it comes to trying to decode body language.

Whether running her fingers in her hair, or pressing on her thumbs  – she’s not the only one with these ‘finger’ reflexes. But what do they say about her – or you? Here are some explanations:

I often run my fingers through my hair

Keeping in mind that hair is a woman’s crowning glory and so central to her self-image, one can easily tell that combing her fingers through it is not that trivial. Thus, grabbing her hair and tossing it back comes down to – literally – “restyling” her morale. Slipping her hair behind the ears as a precise and automatic gesture expresses a desire to seize the opportunities that arise. Wrapping them around her index finger, however, is often a sign of impatience or a heightened sensitivity.

I often grip my arm with my thumb and index finger

Idly squeezing the biceps on both sides suggests a desire to safeguard yourself behind a symbolic barrier. It is noted, in this way, a need to protect our personal territory against a person who seeks to corner us or impress us. It is no wonder then that this gesture is very common with pregnant women…

Sitting, I often cross my fingers on my knees

A subconscious gesture to “anchor”, this little habit reflects, once again, a desire to preserve, and protect oneself against a feeling of insecurity. When you find yourself doing this, take the time to ask yourself: what are you trying to prevent; Is the danger real or simply in your mind?

Finally, be observant if you cross your fingers on the right knee, it tends to point at some form of anxiety. If it is the left knee that you have got covered up, you’re more trying to show your impatience and hint that it’s about time to finish.

Mélissa Beau