Head Bobble
Many Indians involuntarily move their head in many directions during conversations. This head movement is commonly known as a head bobble and may mean many things like yes, I understand, oh no, no way, no, good, ok, maybe, acknowledgment, what’s up, carry on, etc.
The head bobble may occur in isolation or combined with hand and body movements, eye movements, lip movements, etc. Head bobble can be used with a smile, laugh, and speech.
Many believe that head bobble is infectious. People not accustomed to this usually start doing it when they meet Indians who are repeatedly doing it.
Is it beneficial to practice head bobble?
- It helps in engagement during conversations. It shows interest and active listening.
One person is speaking, and another is moving his head means a two-way conversation, understanding, and exchange of feelings. It helps in giving 100% during talks. It is a way to speak less, interrupt minimal, and listen more. - It may be better than standing or sitting still with no head movement. The speaker has no way to know if you are actively listening to him or not and whether you are interested in what they are saying.
- It is better to be expressive than hide.
- Facial expressions and head movements can convey a lot of things.
- Use of body language during conversations is helpful in the prevention of lying and faking.
- It is a good neck exercise while talking.
- It may mean a higher level of communication- Heart to heart, head to head, and eye to eye.
- Not sure if it can be considered a smaller version of sign language. This nonverbal communication is helpful when people do not understand another person’s speech or the dialect.
- Head movements are an integral part of classical Indian dance. However, during drama and dance, it is voluntary.
- Head movements are a blessing during Maun vrat.
Bharti Raizada
