A human being communicates through verbal and non-verbal language. Our bodies are
rarely still. Our feet, hands, eyes and heads are moving all the time. Our expressions
change. We pull faces, rub our noses, run our hands through our hair and do all sorts
of things which, when taken in isolation, seem very odd. However, what is happening
is quite straightforward – our bodies are 'talking'. We can guard our tongues – but
not so easily shut off our body language.
Research has shown that 35% of the message is carried verbally, while 65% is conveyed
non-verbally (Birdwhistell). Mehrabian suggested that communication is 7% verbal,
38% vocal and 55% non-verbal.
The study of a human being in totality involves paying attention to both verbal and
non-verbal language. A patient may express his innermost feelings, emotions, dispositions
or the mental state to a discerning homeopath through words and body movements. Perceiving
them clearly helps a homeopath in three areas viz. analysis, evaluation and synthesis.
The study of homeopathic remedies in materia medica is a sort of study of HUMANOID
(i.e. artificial human being) who has been presented to us (as developed through proving,
toxicology and clinical verifications) with its colours and hues. Each homeopathic
remedy has its unique verbal and non-verbal language. Exploration in the field of
body language can be of substantial aid in clinical practice.
The issue of 'non-verbal consciousness' has great scope in homeopathic practice. Body
language is a peep-hole into patient's hidden conflicts and feelings and will certainly
help a homeopath in knowing an elusive and undefinable mind. At the same time, a homeopath
must know its limitations and he should be wary of its exclusive clinical application.
All body language must be interpreted in reference to the situation, the context,
and the culture of the people involved – and there can be variations.
Keywords:
Verbal and non-verbal communication, hidden conflicts and feelings, non-verbal consciousness.
Schlüsselwörter:
Verbale und nonverbale Kommunikation, versteckte Konflikte und Gefühle, nonverbales
Bewusstsein.
Korrespondierender Autor: Dr. Ajit Kulkarni Bhavani peth, Opp. Rajwada bus stop, Satara, Maharashtra, India
E-Mail: dr_ajitkulkarni@rediffmail.com