A body language expert has outlined nine clear indicators that might reveal someone’s deep affection for you this Valentine’s Day.
For those who are in solid relationships, these signals may not be necessary to affirm their partner’s love. However, for those entangled in ambiguous situationships, these cues could provide much-needed clarity regarding the other person’s emotions.
Judi James, an expert in body language, has provided these insights, noting that these gestures range from appearing ‘shy’ to giving undivided attention.
Take a look at these signs:
It’s not difficult to envision, essentially akin to the heart-eyes emoji in human form. James, who spoke exclusively with Paddy Power Games, stated: “Nature enhances our attractiveness to the person we love, encouraging instincts for mating and breeding.
“The facial expression is a key aspect, often referred to as the look of love, a unique expression reserved for viewing your partner.”
This look can also be present in someone who is enamored with you yet hasn’t muster the courage to express it.
James elaborated on identifying this look, saying: “Facial features soften, eyes slightly narrow, and there’s often an urge to smile, sometimes suppressed, causing micro-puckering around the lips. It’s a ‘soppy’ yet endearing expression that reveals feelings instantly.”
Beyond a hypnotist’s phrase, James explains that those in love often engage in ‘increased eye contact’.
She added: “A subliminal motive includes observing pupil dilation, a physiological response when looking at someone we love.”
You might overlook it, but James notes that falling in love often results in a voice that becomes ‘deeper and slightly husky’.
While initial dates may involve laughter, she clarifies: “There’s a decrease in high-pitched laughter; the voice becomes more intimate and less for show.”
Commonly linked with discomfort or fear, James mentions that toe curling can also occur when someone is in love.
She likens it to ‘the human version of a tail-wag’.
James explained: “Toes curl with pleasure and contentment around a loved one. Negative signs include metronomic tapping or splaying of feet or toes.”
This one isn’t straightforward – does love lead to increased vegetable consumption? Not quite. James suggests it relates to a desire to be ‘as close as possible’ to one’s beloved.
“This may include mirroring body language or wearing matching clothing,” she explains. “We aim to show strong rapport and display a perfect ‘match’ with our partner to the world.”
Aside from proximity, James mentions that being in love involves a desire to ‘tune in completely to your partner’, prioritizing them above all else.
“No glancing at phones or messages, the focus is solely on the person present,” she notes.
Conversely, James points out love can also manifest as shyness. “Falling in love profoundly affects the body, making us appear shy as we process feelings and suppress urges to gaze and touch, especially if unsure about the other’s feelings.
“Blushing, downward glances, small gestures like touching hair or mouth, or giggling when they speak potentially indicate early stages of love.”
Though it might sound threatening, James suggests it’s a typical part of falling in love as partners seek to be ‘engaged in each other’s devoted attention’.
“This involves positioning themselves with their back to the room at social events or opting for secluded dining spots. If someone continues to showboat publicly, they’re likely not in love,” she explained.
Finally, James emphasized the need to differentiate between love and lust, which can coexist but are distinct.
She stated: “True love shifts focus from lustful gazing at physical features to a deeper connection, with eye contact centered on face and mouth. We seek to understand moods and thoughts, guided by facial expressions.”
Now that you know the signs, stay alert when around that special someone!