Sitting with your legs crossed during a conversation or social event might seem like a casual or stylish choice but, besides physical comfort, it could also reveal hidden emotional cues. This simple gesture has roots in habit and body language and can say a lot about how we feel inside.
Body language experts in the US have studied this everyday posture and found that it can signal a mix of relaxation and defense. Some folks do it to ease the strain on their lower back but there’s a twist: the way we cross our legs can also hint at our emotional state. It might be a sign that someone is trying to comfort themselves or even pull back from the conversation. Want to know more about it? Let’s get to it.
Why do we cross our legs?
Many of us learn to cross our legs early on. It becomes second nature, almost like a reflex. Physically, crossing your legs can help reduce tension in the lower back. Dr. Steven Weiniger, a posture expert, has explained that adjusting your leg position might be a way to lessen discomfort. In simple terms, it’s all about finding a spot that feels right.
On a deeper level, the act of crossing your legs is tied to self-comfort. When you cross them, you create a barrier, and this small self-contact can be soothing, much like wrapping your arms around yourself. For many, especially when sitting for long periods in an office or a packed waiting room, it’s a natural move to make your body feel secure.
Crossing your legs: different perceptions of others
In many social settings, this posture can be a mixed signal. On one hand, it might show that the person is relaxed. On the other, it can suggest they’re guarding themselves. In a business meeting or political debate in the US, for example, a person sitting with legs crossed might be subtly withdrawing from the discussion. This can make it tougher for colleagues or campaign staff to read their true feelings.
Experts have noticed that this stance can also point to anxiety. If someone is feeling a bit overwhelmed or uneasy, they might cross their legs to create a sense of safety. It also makes them less mobile, which could be a sign they’re not ready to jump into action. In our everyday encounters, this can be seen as a sign of submission. The body, in a quiet way, might be saying: “I need a break” or “I’m not all in right now”.
Yet, the story isn’t entirely negative. Sometimes, crossing your legs is simply a habit formed over years of sitting in comfort. It doesn’t always mean the person is anxious or withdrawn. It might just be the way their body likes to sit. Still, it’s an interesting cue to pick up on during conversations or interviews, adding a layer of understanding to our interactions.
Next time you notice someone sitting with their legs crossed, remember there could be a lot more going on than just a comfortable seating choice. And if you want to learn more about our body language during conversations, check out our article on why we cross our arms.