Body language nose gestures can reveal that a person is angry and entering flight or fight mode, or that they are feeling nervous or lying. Hmmm.. .. seems that body language nose gestures mostly have negative meanings then!
Body Language Nose: Flared Nostrils
Widened nostrils allow for more air to be breathed in and out and thus prepares a person for a fight or flight response. In this way, flared nostrils is an indication of distinct displeasure. Flared nostrils body language can be a sign of anger (the fight response) or of fear or anxiety (flight).
Note: We also flare our nostrils when suddenly taxed with a heavy thought.
If you are talking to someone and you see flared nostrils you surely stop talking immediately because you have likely said something to offend the other person. If you continue to aggravate them they will only get angrier and you could potentially get into a fight. It is possible that they will simply walk away from you, but of course this is less than desirable too. If you wish to continue speaking, at least take your foot off that gas mouth a little so they can chill. Spotting this one gesture and dealing with it appropriately will help you to avoid arguments and conflicts.
Touching Nose (Body Language Nose)
Touching the nose in body language can have a variety of meanings:
- The most obvious meaning of touching the nose is that someone has noticed a bad smell they wish to escape from.
- Much as we grip our chin when evaluating, we may also grip our nose, pinching at the bridge of the nose. This is most usually related to a negative evaluation or frustration.
- Touching the nose is also a sign that someone is lying. Lying causes the nose to itch, leading a person to touch it.
- We often rub a finger along our nose when disagreeing with someone.