National Body Language Day

National Body Language Day is observed every year on the first Friday of October. It’s a day to shine a light on nonverbal communication—the gestures, expressions, posture and other silent cues that speak volumes without words.

History of National Body Language Day

National Body Language Day was established in 2018 by Blanca Cobb, a body language expert and founder of TruthBlazer LLC. The goal was to draw attention to how much we communicate nonverbally, how we sometimes miss cues from others, and how greater awareness of body language can improve relationships, both personal and professional.

The observance is meant to be accessible—no grand ceremonies are needed. It encourages everyday people to notice nonverbal signals and think about how they themselves use body language. Over time it’s grown as a small awareness‑day in communication, etiquette, business training, pet owners, and more.

Why National Body Language Day is important?

So much of what we communicate isn’t in the words we choose but the way we move, our facial expressions, posture, eye contact. Recognizing this helps reduce misunderstandings; it lets us pick up on feelings or intentions others may not be saying outright. For people learning new languages, or in cross‑cultural situations, or working with nonverbal individuals, body language often carries more meaning.

Also, being aware of body language gives us more control over how we present ourselves. In professional settings (jobs, interviews, leadership), social situations (dating, friendship), or caregiving, knowing what your posture or gesture signals can help you communicate more confidently, read others better, and build trust. It also helps with empathy—understanding someone’s non‑verbal cues can reveal if they’re uncomfortable, anxious or in need of support.

Here are a few of the meaningful benefits people often note

• noticing others’ body language helps you sense how they really feel, not just what they’re saying
• improving your own nonverbal cues makes you come across as more confident or trustworthy
• helps in interactions where words fail, whether because of language differences, shyness, or being nonverbal
• enhances empathy by seeing more than just verbal content in conversations
• can even improve relationships with animals by observing their nonverbal signals

How to Observe National Body Language Day

You don’t need big events or lots of preparation—this is a day that’s about paying attention and practicing. One way is simply observing the people around you: notice their posture, gestures, facial expressions, or how they use space. Try to reflect on what those cues might mean. Maybe compare how different cultures or ages use body language differently.

Another way is to try adjusting your own nonverbal communication in small ways—practice more open posture, make eye contact, mirror someone’s gestures to build rapport, or tone down nervous habits. You could also watch videos, TED talks, or read about body language to learn what expert interpreters say about it. If you like, organize a small workshop, or play games with friends that rely on gestures (charades, etc.).

Here are some simple ideas you can try

• watch someone speaking and focus just on their gestures, facial expressions, posture — try to interpret what they’re saying beyond words
• practice in a mirror how you sit or stand: are your shoulders open or closed, is your face relaxed or tense, how do you use your hands when you speak
• with friends/family, play a game like charades or mimic each other’s expressions to see how body language works in fun way
• try to observe how your pets communicate by action — tail wagging, purring, posture, etc — and respond accordingly
• share something on social media about body language: a fact you learned, a video, or your own reflection on how nonverbal cues have mattered

National Body Language Day Dates Table