Igo for the backbench if that looks spacious, I like to have a free seat next to me on the bus or the train, and I easily get edgy when rooms are crowded. At the library I prefer a desk of my own. Not unlike most other people from Ladakh. I know, I guess I like my space, and I try to let others have theirs, whatever theirs might be, although occasionally, I might overwhelm my friend with a hug. Must be wondering what I am talking about? Well my dear I am talking about Proximity another important non-verbal communication. Proximity is the study of man's appreciation and use of space, about how do we create and make use of space? Before reading on, take half a minute to think about how you handle Space. What kind of distance do you prefer when talking to someone? Do you think it's natural to take a seat next to a stranger on the bus if there is a free double-seat available? Think of how you behave in a crowded elevator. Now, do you think this is strictly personal or might there be a bigger picture? The term proxemics was introduced by anthropologist Edward T. Hall in 1966 to describe set measurable distances between people as they interact. The effects of proxemics, according to Hall, can be summarized by the following loose rule: “Like gravity the influence of two bodies on each other is inversely proportional not only to the square of their distance but possibly even the cube of the distance between them.” E.T. Hall was the first to research this issue in 1961. His research went on to conclude that the species of man was very territorial. Today humans have placed ownership on every part of the world. People are usually not aware of territory possessiveness but react quickly when intruders violate the space. Most famously, the theory of proxemics include the four spaces that surround us:

The Business Gaze: When having discussions on a business level, imagine that there is a triangle on the other person’s forehead. By keeping your gaze directed at this area, you create a serious atmosphere and the other person senses that you mean business. Provided that you gaze does not drop below the level of the other person’s eyes, you are able to maintain control of the interaction.