These Sitting Positions Say A Lot About You

Many of us spend the majority of our days sitting. Did you know that the way you prefer to sit can give others a glimpse into your personality? The way you cross your legs or put your hands on your lap can be very telling. Keep reading to see what your sitting position might be telling others.

Why Some People Spread Out While Sitting

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Photo Credit: Alex Ware/Unsplash

It can sometimes be annoying sitting next to someone who spreads their legs out really wide while they're sitting.

These people tend to have trouble sitting still or concentrating on one thing at a time. They will likely speak before thinking about what they're going to say, are easily bored, and love fast-paced environments.

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Crossing Your Ankles Can Make You Seem Like Royalty

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Photo Credit: Walt Disney Pictures/MovieStillsDB
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One way to look a little more sophisticated while sitting is to cross your ankles. Someone who sits this way comes off as refined, elegant, and down-to-earth.

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Since this position is a little more relaxed, it causes both yourself and those around you to feel comfortable. Some may notice that members of the royal family usually sit this way.

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Show Some Flexibility By Sitting Cross-Legged

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Photo Credit: Jose Aljovin/Unsplash
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There's a reason why people who practice yoga or meditation choose to sit in the cross-legged sitting position when they're not practicing. Those who choose this style tend to be more open and carefree.

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When people sit cross-legged with their knees out to each side, it can be interpreted as being open-minded and wanting to hear new ideas. Not only is this position physically flexible, but it's emotionally flexible as well.

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The Reason You Rest Your Hands In Your Lap

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Photo Credit: Shinfe Studio/Unsplash
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Those who sit with their hands resting (not clasped together) in their lap are most likely to keep to themselves and love to put others first.

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They rarely get upset and are able to stay in control of their emotions. Keeping your hands still in your lap could mean you're humble, unassuming, compassionate, gentle, and easy to be around.

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Do You Clutch The Armrests? Here's Why

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Photo Credit: Yogendra Singh/Unsplash
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Armrests are there for support, which is why people who clutch them want both physical and emotional support. People who prefer to use the armrests are likely sensitive and want to keep an eye on their surroundings.

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They may need some extra comfort and security in their life and the armrests are a symbol of that. Clutching armrests could also mean they are stable, grounded, and reliable.

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Where You Choose To Sit Can Be A Clue To Your Personality

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Photo Credit: Robert Alexander/Getty Images
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If you encounter an empty bench, couch, or another seating area, it makes a difference where you sit. People who sit in the middle of these seats tend to be more confident.

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Introverted or shy people may choose the end because they don't want to be surrounded by others. The outgoing people who sit in the middle show that they are bold and can make friends easily.

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You Might Be Defensive If You Cross Your Arms

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Photo Credit: Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash
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Someone who usually crosses their arms while they sit may seem unapproachable, but that's not always the case. These people are most likely strong, a little defensive, and confident.

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They may also feel they need some protection or security and are essentially shielding their body from the rest of the world. Some other personality traits attributed to this sitting position include being thoughtful, serious, and analytical.

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Caregivers Are Usually Kneeling

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Photo Credit: Priscilla Whendy/Unsplash
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It's not exactly easy to sit in a kneeling position and it usually goes with the qualities of being assertive and helpful.

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Caregivers such as parents and grandparents perform the kneeling position frequently, so they can get eye level with their little ones. Also, people who regularly kneel are usually natural-born leaders, witty, and great problem solvers.

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Why You May Clasp Your Hands In Your Lap

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Photo Credit: Tim Mossholder/Unsplash
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Someone who tightly clasps their hands in their lap may come off as anxious, but there's a lot more behind this sitting position.

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It actually signals that someone is very passionate and emotional. People are naturally drawn to these types of individuals because of their high energy and zest for life. They're also naturally trustworthy, warm, sweet, and funny.

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People Who Recline Are Very Observant

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Photo Credit: Ronnie George/Unsplash
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The world can be filled with a lot of external stimuli that can make it overwhelming. If you see someone sitting in a reclined position, it could mean they're just trying to take it all in.

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Recliners tend to be more analytical and would prefer to observe a situation, instead of acting out. These people are also very considerate and would likely be called empaths.

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This Sitting Position Is Common In Creative People

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Photo Credit: Chris Yang/Unsplash
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Someone who sits with their knees together and their feet facing each other is usually creative and charismatic. They would be considered a Type B personality that loves spontaneity.

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While these people can usually find themselves in trouble, they're quick thinkers who know how to get out of it. This sitting position represents popularity, adventure, and friendliness.

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People Who Sit Like This May Be Considered Type A

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If you've ever seen someone sitting with their legs crossed with non-stop shaking or bouncing, it could give off the vibe that they have a Type A personality.

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This position can be interpreted as being organized, prompt, and reliable. These people tend to stay calm under pressure, always pay attention to detail, and are great at understanding others.

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People Who Cross Their Legs Live In Their Heads

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Photo Credit: Canva
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If you find yourself crossing your legs and not moving them, it's likely that you have a big imagination. You're someone who often gets lost in your daydreams and is great at storytelling.

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Some common traits with this sitting position include empathy, good at making eye contact, and great listening skills. Also, you know yourself very well.

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Be A Little Flirty In The Sidesaddle Position

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Photo Credit: Ussama Azam/Unsplash
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Someone who sits with their knees to the side is in the sidesaddle position. This can be interpreted as being delicate, caring, or sweet.

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The sidesaddle is also a bit flirtatious and can send signals to another person that you're interested in them. Sitting with your knees and chest pointed out towards your partner signals this interest even further.

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The Truth About Folding Your Hands In Your Lap

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Photo Credit: Hao Pan/Unsplash
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One of the easiest ways to decode someone's personality is to check if they fold their hands in their lap while they sit. We already discussed clasped hands, but someone who folds their hands together in their lap regularly tends to be calm, kind, and peaceful.

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These people are pretty introverted and love their alone time, but are also very passionate about the world and those who live in it. They may not say much, but when they speak be sure to listen.

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The Benefits Of Sitting With Straight Legs

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Smart, rational, punctual, neat, and orderly are all ways to describe someone who sits with their legs straight and feet flat on the floor.

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While these people tend to be more reserved, they love to talk openly and honestly about themselves when given the chance. They're also the best person to go to in a crisis because they know how to remain calm.

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How To Tell If You Have Good Posture

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Photo Credit: QAI Publishing/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
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Most people are usually told to have good posture when they sit, which typically includes a straight, erect back. Someone who has good posture tends to be more confident, strong, reliable, caring, and trustworthy.

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While these people are some of the most responsible, they also love to have a good time and enjoy the little things in life.

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This Sitting Position Represents A Goal-Oriented Person

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) Meghan, Duchess of Sussex watches the sitting volley ball competition on day 2 of the Invictus Games 2020 with legs crossed
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Photo Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
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One of the more refined ways of sitting is keeping your legs together and tilted to the side. Those who prefer this position are usually very goal-oriented and want to focus on their careers.

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You might call them a perfectionist in categories such as appearance, relationships, and health, which can cause them to miss some of life's most precious moments.

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Always Take Breaks From Sitting

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Photo Credit: Daria Pimkina/Unsplash
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It's important that people who spend most of their day sitting take breaks throughout the day. Sitting for long periods of time can reduce blood flow and cause muscle fatigue.

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Take a break by getting up and moving around to get your blood flowing. Shorter breaks such as a one to two-minute break every 30 minutes are better than longer breaks a couple of times per day.

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Give Your Back Enough Support

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Photo Credit: Unsplash/Studio Republic
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One of the best ways to make sure your back gets enough support while you are sitting is to use an ergonomic chair. These are designed to reduce stress and friction on your bones and muscles as you sit.

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If you don't have enough money for one of these fancy chairs, rolling up a towel or getting a small pillow and placing it on your lower back will work just fine.

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Think About Investing In A Headset

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Photo Credit: Fausto Sandoval/Unsplash
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If you find yourself straining to look at your phone, it could be worth it to get a headset.

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When people bend their necks to repeatedly look down it can cause stiff muscles, pain, and ligament damage that can gradually get worse over time. If a headset isn't in your budget, try opting for hands-free options such as using a speakerphone.

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Look At Your Chair's Settings

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Photo Credit: Jonathan Borba/Unsplash
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One of the reasons why you may be feeling pain after sitting for a long time could be that your chair's settings are messed up.

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Your arms and legs should be parallel with the ground and your knees should be even with your hips. Also, your feet should be resting on the floor or under a stool and your arms should curve into an L-shape.

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Try Not To Reach Too Far To Get Something

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Photo Credit: Avel Chuklanov/Unsplash
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It's important that everything you frequently use while sitting, such as a phone, keyboard, mouse, and water bottle, are within arms reach.

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According to Healthline, when people stretch too much while sitting, they can strain their muscles. If someone is doing this multiple times every day, it can lead to severe joint pain.

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The Right Way To Sit

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Photo Credit: Tim van der Kuip/Unsplash
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While there are dozens of different sitting positions, there is one that is recommended by experts. Healthline states that people should sit with their feet firmly on the floor with their body weight evenly distributed at the hips.

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Also, your knees should be bent at a right angle and people should avoid wearing heels. Never sit with your legs crossed because it can reduce blood flow and cause muscle strain.