Think about that telephone example again. 

When we use positive and confident body language on the phone, our intonation and auditory presence are both more positive. As a result, the mental image someone will have of us will be more positive, and this will affect the outcome of the conversation. 

Think about when you have been on the phone to a call centre. If the impression you form of the person you are speaking to is one of someone slouching and uncaring, how does that make you feel towards them? 

We can demonstrate this somatopsychic effect quite easily. Clench both of your fists as tightly as you can for a few seconds. Now read on…

What happened to your breathing?

You should have found that you were holding your breath, because the physical experience of clenching your fists tells your subconscious you are ready to fight, which in turn triggers the autonomic nervous system. And this causes you to hold your breath, ready for flight or flight.

Clench your fists again, as tight as you can.

Now concentrate on breathing deeply, using stomach breathing rather than chest breathing. This time you should find your fingers starting to loosen. Consciously controlling your breathing sends messages to the subconscious telling you that there is nothing to fear, and your fists loosen.