Body Language of the Arms
by Kathleen Karlsen, Author of Vocal Medicine
The body language of the arms reveals a fascinating connection between psychology, symbolism, and the physical body. Understanding the symbolic and spiritual meaning of the body can help to identify areas of life that need healing and transformation. The metaphors we use related to the arms also express our deepest feelings about our arms and their functions.
Key Takeaways
- Psychological significance of the arms
- Emotional connection to the arms
- Metaphors that reveal the importance of the arms
Meaning of the Arms
Arms body language is related to reaching and holding. The arms are for action: creating, hitting, touching, holding, caressing, protecting, pushing away, and much more. One of the most significant signals to others is arms crossed over the heart. This position protects your heart and feelings. This tells others that you do not intend to soften your stance on any level. You are telling others to stay away, not to come close, and not to expect compassion.
Psychology of the Arms
The arms are connected to the shoulders and your responsibilities in life. Arms are used to carry all kinds of loads from small children to gifts to heavy burdens. Arms body language expresses the energy of the heart. Arms extended to another invites a hug or embrace. Strong arms are a comfort. Weak arms may indicate an inability to let your feelings flow and to take charge of your life.
Arms Body Language: Metaphors
In descriptive language, arms are a form of both power and connection. It is no coincidence that “arms” is another name for weapons as in the “arms race.” Let’s take a look at some metaphors related to arms body language and their psychological significance.
Arm in Arm: A reference to a close relationship and interpersonal support. Usage example, “The two women walked arm in arm along the pathway.”
Up in Arms: To react badly to a situation or person. Usage example, “The new rule was so unfair that the entire team was up in arms.”
Long Arm of the Law: The far-reaching authority of a government or other official agency or individual. Usage example, “He’ll never escape from the long arm of the law.”
A Shot in the Arm: An infusion of energy or pep. Usage example, “Her praise got him moving like a powerful shot in the arm.”
At Arm’s Length: Keeping a safe distance from another. Usage example, “After he insulted her, she made it a practice to always keep him at arm’s length.”
Give My Right Arm: To sacrifice something significant. Usage example, “I’d give my right arm for a chance at another opportunity to go to college!”
Twist an Arm: To pressure someone who is hesitating. Usage example, “She wasn’t sure if she wanted to buy the house, but the real estate agent skillfully twisted her arm.”
Psychology of Arm Problems
Problems with the arms can indicate that you are not doing what you want to do in life. There may be something you are holding onto that you need to release. Or there is something that you want that you are afraid to reach for. Arms body language is also related to the affected side of the body.
Right and Left Side of the Body
For example, problems with the right arm can indicate difficulties with the masculine side of life. This could be an individual such as your father, husband, brother, uncle, grandfather or a male co-worker or associate. Likewise, problems with the left arm may be related to the feminine side of life: your mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, a female co-worker or associate.
Meaning of Arm Injuries
Bruises on the arms can be a sense of being harmed by another. Bruises can also indicate resistance to a situation in life. If your arm is actually broken, this indicates a deep level of conflict in arms body language. The broken arm may be protecting you from things you don’t want to do. Perhaps you are a caregiver who needs a break (literally), or you no longer want to perform the tasks associated with earning a living, or there is someone that you no longer want to embrace.
BODY SYMBOLISM: Explore body symbolism from head to toe! Includes arms body language, the meaning of other limbs and joints as well as the psychological and spiritual meaning of glands and organs. See the article Body Metaphors and Symbolism.
CHEEK MEANING: Cheek meaning is revealed clearly in the language that we use to describe our bodies. These meanings are part of our everyday consciousness and interactions. Learn more about significant and humorous Cheek Meaning!
Kathleen Karlsen is an author, musician, artist, and composer. She has written three books (The Color-Music Connection, Flower Symbols, and Vocal Medicine) and over 200 articles. Her YouTube channel features over 600 videos. Kathleen and her family live in Bozeman, Montana, USA.
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