I know, what you think. Facial and body language
Emma Kochx

© Emma Kochx, 2025

ISBN 978-5-0068-1916-0

Created with Ridero smart publishing system

INTRODUCTION

“You know how to look, but do you know how to see?”

People walked past him without noticing. He was sitting on a bench in the park – the very one where benches are always taken by moms with strollers, teenagers on their phones, and elderly folks reading newspapers. He wasn’t doing anything strange: just sitting there, slightly hunched, staring ahead. No sign, no outstretched hand, no pleading look. Only the trembling fingers on his knees gave away his anxiety. And yet, in the hour he sat there, dozens of people walked by – and no one saw him.

I was one of the few who did. But only because I once learned how to see.

From childhood, we’re taught to see the world with our eyes. We distinguish colors, shapes, faces. We’re shown what a smile looks like, what laughter sounds like. But we’re not taught what lies beneath it.

We hear, “I’m fine,” we see the corners of the mouth lifted – and we take it as truth. But the empty eyes, the strained voice, the clenched fists – we miss those. Because we look, but we don’t see.

Think about it. How many times have you felt that something was “off,” but couldn’t explain why? As if something in the person was silently saying: “Don’t trust the words.” That’s the body. It speaks – always. And it never lies. Unlike words, the body doesn’t know how to lie. It can hide, restrain, mask – but the truth always finds a way out. In facial expressions, gestures, micro-movements. In breathing, in the gaze, in the position of the legs.

Imagine a doctor who diagnoses not only by test results, but by how a patient walks into the room. He notices the heaviness in the step, the slouched back, the eyes avoiding contact. None of that is medical data – but it’s all a signal.

Or a teacher who sees a student turning away when asked about homework – not out of boredom, but because home isn’t a safe place. Or a parent who realizes their child isn’t just “quiet” – but deeply suppressed.

The language of the body is a second layer of reality.

If you don’t learn to read it, you miss half the meaning of every conversation, every interaction.

We live in the age of information. Thousands of words, texts, messages every day. We’ve become masters at “reading” – but worse at feeling. People hide behind screens, smile in stories, and suffocate from loneliness at night. Today, the ability to “read” – is not just a bonus. It’s a survival skill.

You go to a job interview: can you tell when the recruiter is tired and not really listening?

You’re negotiating: do you see when your partner is genuinely interested, and when they’re just being polite?

You’re in a relationship: do you notice when your loved one is not okay, even if they say they’re “fine”?

In all of these cases, the body says more than the words.

And if you can read that language – you win. Not by manipulating, but by understanding.

By building closeness. By making real contact.

For example, crossing arms – that’s observation. Deciding that the person is closed off and unwilling to talk – that’s interpretation.

Here lies the main mistake of beginners: they see one gesture – and jump to a conclusion.

But body language isn’t that simple. It always depends on context.

Maybe the person crossed their arms because they’re cold, or uncomfortable, or just used to sitting that way.

One gesture is a letter. But to read a sentence, you need more: mood, environment, personal history, the dynamic of change.

A professional observer – whether a psychologist, investigator, actor, or just an attentive friend – doesn’t rush to conclusions. They watch, take notes, compare. They ask themselves: “What am I seeing? How is it connected to what’s happening? Is the behavior changing over time?”

Only then comes interpretation. And even that – is not a verdict, but a hypothesis.

The world has become loud.

People have learned how to grab attention – but not how to hold it.

We’ve started looking superficially, quickly, drawing instant conclusions.

But if you want to truly understand – you have to slow down.

Look – and then see.

Remember that man on the bench?

No one noticed him.

But all it took was for me to stop, say hello – and he burst into tears.

Turned out, he had lost his son.

He was just sitting there, because he didn’t know where else to go.

He said nothing – but his body was screaming.

You just had to hear it. “You know how to look, but do you know how to see?” – this isn’t philosophy. It’s a choice.

Every day, you can walk past something important – or stop and notice.

Understand. Read what’s not being said.

Come closer – to another person, and to yourself.

Because to see means to live consciously.

And that – is true art.

PART I: THE FACE – AN OPEN MAP

Chapter 1. Face Type and Forehead

1.1. The Shape of the Face Is the Geography of Character

When you look in the mirror, you see a face. Cheeks, forehead, chin, nose. Maybe you notice a pimple on your chin or eyes that didn’t get enough sleep. But if you look just a little closer – you can see an entire landscape of personality. The shape of the face is like a map of the terrain: someone is a mountain range, someone is a lake district, and someone is a neat and cozy peninsula. Once you learn to read these “geographical shapes,” what unfolds before you is not just a face – but an atlas of character.

Ready for the journey? Put on your imaginary trekking boots – we’re heading out to explore the terrain of human faces.

Wide Face: The Gravity of Charisma

Imagine a square face, like in the movies: strong cheekbones, a firm jawline, a forehead as wide as a football field. These are the people who are hard to miss. They’re like massive architectural structures – they leave an impression that lasts for centuries.

An example? Bruce Willis. Or, say, Peter the Great in a portrait.

A face of decision. A face that says: “We’re building this. Even if all we’ve got is an axe and enthusiasm.”

A wide face is often associated with confidence, willpower, straightforwardness. These aren’t the ones who will beat around the bush. These are the ones who will stand up, say “Alright, enough whining” – and get to work. Sometimes without even asking if it’s needed. Because they’re sure it is!

Surprisingly, studies show that men with wider faces have higher levels of testosterone. And that directly affects dominance, decisiveness, and even leadership qualities.

No wonder, by the way, that many military leaders and athletes have exactly this type of face.

Elongated Face: The Intellectual Skyscraper

If a wide face is a massif, then an elongated face is a cliff peak – an elegant spire reaching upward. These people often resemble architects of thought: calm, composed, sometimes slightly pensive. They live one floor above – in their head.

Example? Benedict Cumberbatch (yes, that Sherlock).

A face like a Wi-Fi antenna: it picks up everything, analyzes everything. An elongated face is most often associated with an analytical mind, restraint, and a tendency toward strategic thinking. These people don’t charge ahead like broad-faced heroes – they calculate, assess, and only then act. Sometimes, admittedly, they think too long… and the train leaves the station – but at least they know exactly which platform it was on. Round Face: The Sunny Valley Now, here come the “hug-faces.” Round, soft, with smooth lines – warm and kind. These faces seem to say: “I’ll bake you a pie. Even if you didn’t ask.” Example? Jennifer Lawrence or young Leonardo DiCaprio – round shapes, expressive eyes, a charming smile. These aren’t just people – they’re cruise ships of friendliness.

A round face is often associated with kindness, responsiveness, and empathy. These are emotional diplomats. They care about harmony, atmosphere, mood. They know how to smooth over conflicts, create comfort, and often become the soul of the party.

But don’t be fooled – behind the soft form can lie an iron will. It’s just not expressed through frontal collision, but through charm and psychological flexibility. Narrow Face: Fine-Tuned Precision

And now – the arrow-faces. Narrow, elongated, with a pointed chin and modest cheekbone width. These are people who seem to live in a world of formulas, nuances, and details. Their energy flows inward; their strength lies in depth. Example? Tilda Swinton. Or young Audrey Hepburn. Airy, graceful – yet with powerful internal focus.

A narrow face may suggest a tendency toward introspection, introversion, self-observation. These people are often attentive, observant, sensitive to detail. They won’t waste words – but every word they do say could be quoted. They know how to remain unnoticed – not because they are weak, but because they choose to observe, listen, understand. Rectangular (Long) Face: “The Tower of Thought” Features: Elongated face, high forehead, narrow jaw. Association: A Gothic cathedral reaching for the sky.

These are analysts, strategists, observers. They won’t jump into battle before calculating all the moves. Such people often lean toward perfectionism, may be introverts – but inside their minds are entire symphonies of thought. They may seem cold – but not because they lack feeling, rather because their emotions are not on the surface. They have a hard time relaxing, tend to be self-critical, and sometimes get stuck in their thoughts. However, they possess intelligence and foresight. They know how to listen – and they know how to think. Square Face: “The Fortress of Character” Features: Broad forehead, massive jawline, strong cheekbones. Association: A stone-walled castle, a fortified citadel.

These are strong-willed, direct, and pragmatic people. They have a plan, and they’re not afraid to execute it. They’re not the daydreaming type – but they can build bridges, roads, businesses, and systems with remarkable discipline. You can trust them to steer the ship in a storm. But if you prefer floating on an inflatable mattress, they might seem… a bit too much. They can be too rigid at times, unable to “go with the flow.” They’re easily offended if they feel their strength is not respected. But their strengths include loyalty, reliability, and resilience. You can lean on them – literally and metaphorically.

Diamond-Shaped Face (High Cheekbones, Narrow Forehead and Chin): “The Mountain Pass” What comes to mind is rugged terrain, storms, and clear skies. These are complex, vivid, charismatic personalities. They can be sharp, charming, and unpredictable. Often – creative, artistic types. They love to experiment and can’t stand monotony. Their mood can change faster than a mountain weather forecast. Their weaknesses might include instability and a flair for drama. But they have tons of energy, creativity, and an infectious enthusiasm that lights up those around them. Triangular Face (Wide Forehead, Narrow Chin): “Wisdom from the Summit”

This face resembles an upside-down mountain – with intellect at the top and fragility at the base. These are intellectuals with strong individuality. They strive to be understood, often talk a lot, and love to prove their point. In relationships, they can be sensitive – even if they appear composed on the outside.

Often – creators, philosophers, visionaries. They can be temperamental, and tend to demand the recognition they deeply crave.

People with this face type are usually full of diverse ideas, possess high intelligence, strong ambition, and undeniable charisma.

Inverted Triangle (Narrow Forehead, Wide Jawline) – “Power from Below”

The face of such a person is like a mountain – a stable foundation built from the ground up. They are practical, strong, and resilient. Their mind may be a little chaotic, but their actions are in perfect order. They work with their hands, don’t like unnecessary words, but know how to get things done. These are often tech people, builders, craftsmen – people who get straight to the point.

People with this face type can be stubborn, a bit rough around the edges, not particularly inclined toward introspection. But nature has compensated for this with positive character traits like loyalty, stability, and results-driven thinking. Such a person won’t say, “I love you.” They’ll say, “I installed that shelf and fixed the outlet.” And somehow, that means much more. Now pay attention: in real life, “pure” face types are almost nonexistent. One person may have wide cheekbones but an elongated forehead. Another may have a round chin and a narrow brow. Just like in real geography: plains can border hills, and a lake might sit at the foot of a volcano. That’s why it’s important to look at proportions, balance, and dominant features. Your face shape is like the genetic landscape of your personality: somewhere a volcano of passion is bubbling, somewhere there’s a plain of logic, and somewhere – forests of feelings and hills of kindness. Face shape isn’t just about cosmetology, not just “what haircut should I get?” It’s the visual language of the soul. A map you can learn to read – to understand others, and yourself. So next time you look at someone – don’t just assess the features. Try to read the character, to peer into the depth. You might be looking at a dormant volcano. Or a fjord of wisdom. Or a sunlit plain of kindness. Or maybe – all of them at once. Because every face is a whole world.

1.2. The Forehead – The Pedestal of Reason: Logic, Intuition, Activity

The forehead is not just the patch of skin between the hairline and the eyebrows. It’s not just the surface where time draws its first wrinkles. It is the throne of reason, the control panel of thought, an open diary of the inner world – where between the creases and curves, more can be read than in a biography. For different people, the forehead is like a different sky: for some – clear and open, for others – low, heavy, and tense. For some – wide, like a steppe of ideas; for others – narrow, but lightning-fast, like a mountain gorge of decisions. Every forehead speaks its own language – of logic, intuition, and activity. Learn to listen – and you’ll understand more than words could ever say.

1. THE FOREHEAD AS LOGIC: The Stone of Thought

The forehead is the first station of reason. This is where logic, analysis, and structured thinking reside. For people with a high, broad forehead, the mind is like a library: trything is shelved, sorted, and catalogued. They see the world in diagrams, graphs, and interconnections. In their minds, there’s always an inner presentation going on – with Excel spreadsheets and conclusions. Such people can sit in thought for hours – replaying dialogues, refining plans, breaking down events to the last screw. In their gaze, there’s calculation – not cold, just precise. They don’t rush to conclusions, because they know the value of every detail. What does a “logic forehead” look like?

– High, straight, symmetrical.

– Smooth – especially in youth: their thinking isn’t chaotic, it’s structured.

– Often slightly protruding, like a shield. They don’t take things at face value. Everything must be tested, proven, verified.Sometimes they get lost in analysis, forgetting about feelings. But at the same time, these people are brilliant strategists, architects of solutions, and genius-level organizers.

2. FOREHEAD AS INTUITION: The Sky of Premonitions

Here is another kind of forehead. Slightly convex, smooth, like a wave. Its shape is not geometric – it is alive. This is not the engineer’s forehead, but the oracle’s. He does not calculate, he feels. Such people often cannot explain why they make one decision or another, but something above seems to whisper to them: “Do this.” And – they do. And they guess. Again and again. Intuitive foreheads are often found in creative souls, spiritual seekers, empaths, mediums, writers, artists. These are people who think in images, associations, metaphors. Their thinking is like water: not direct, but flowing and deep. What does a “forehead-intuition” look like?

– Convex, slightly rounded.

– Often – high, like a “dome” above the mind.

– A forehead upon which it is easy to imagine moonlight or a star chart. Such people have one distinguishing trait: decisions are made “from within,” inexplicably, but often correctly. It may be hard to explain; they are ideal in creativity, intuitive psychology, art, spiritual practices.

3. FOREHEAD AS ACTIVITY: The Field of Action

And now consider a no less interesting example – the volcano forehead. It may not be high, somewhat sloping, with active facial expression – you can immediately see from it that the person is thinking. This forehead is not about philosophizing or feeling. It is about action. For such people, in their head is not an archive, but a plan of action for the coming day. And every morning it is updated. These are energy-people. They do not need a hundred years to think. They see the goal, they do not see obstacles. Not because they are not smart – they just don’t waste time on unnecessary things. Their forehead is the control panel of a spaceship, where every lever has already been pushed forward.

What does the “doer’s forehead” look like?

– Medium height or even low.

– Often – with dynamic mimic lines.

– Sometimes – with strong brow ridges, like those of a primal hunter.

They switch on quickly, work quickly, and burn out quickly. They can act without analysis or intuition. But such people are ideal for crises, startups, emergency decisions. The forehead is not just a facial feature. It is literally an anatomical metaphor for your thinking. The forehead is what meets the world first. Look: when someone lifts their head and gazes into the distance, they in a way “lead” the world with their forehead. In ancient times people wore diadems, wreaths, turbans – precisely on the forehead. It was a sacred place. Because here is the center of decision making, the intuitive gaze, the projection of will. For the logical person the forehead is like a jewelry chest of blueprints. For the intuitive – like a window into another world. For the active – like a command post. Forehead and Facial Expression – what will the wrinkles tell? In ancient times they said: “On a person’s forehead – the words he did not speak.”

It’s true. Even if you are silent, your forehead will speak for you.

It is enough to look at its relief – and you can guess who stands before you: the thinker, the dreamer, or the silent observer.

Horizontal wrinkles – “lines of deliberation”

The most common. And perhaps the most talkative.

They appear from frequently raising the eyebrows – that is, from surprise, contemplation, constant analysis. Such lines are a sign of mental activity. The more of them and the deeper they are – the more actively the person thinks, feels, carries everything in their head.

His portrait: this is a person who often “chews over” events, analyzes the past, calculates the future, reacts to everything emotionally and intellectually. What can we say about the character of someone with such wrinkles? That they are prone to high mental load, increased anxiety, and tendency to control. If the wrinkles are deep and appear early – the body may live in constant tension, which over time will show on the nervous system and even in blood pressure. This often happens in responsible, thinking people who rarely relax. It’s time to learn to let go, rest, exhale – at least sometimes. These people go to bed not when they are tired, but when the noise of thoughts in their head finally quiets down.

One vertical wrinkle between the eyebrows – “the arrow of concentration»This is that very “thinker’s wrinkle” or “lone wrinkle.” It appears from frequent frowning of the brows, especially in states of c/ oncentration, distrust, internal struggle.

This person is often inward. Their thoughts are not always visible from outside, but inside them – a true analytical whirlwind. They can be critical, attentive, even strict – to themselves and to others. A person with such a face surprises with much attention to detail; he has an inherent internal demand, tendency toward self-criticism, introverted thinking.In such people there may be hidden stress and unexpressed emotions, which can manifest early in those who are used to “carrying everything on their own” and not sharing their experiences.

3. Two Vertical Wrinkles Between the Eyebrows – “Gates of Tension”

This is an intensified version of the previous case. Usually found in people who live in a mode of constant internal struggle: with themselves, with circumstances, with others’ opinions. Such a person is very responsible, possibly even stubborn. Often a leader, a controller, a manager; their will is strongly developed. These wrinkles say that the person has a strong character, is straightforward, does not forgive weakness and tends to hide their emotions, so they seem cold and unemotional, although that is not quite so. Such people need emotional release – but seldom allow themselves one. It is important for them to learn gentleness, and to allow themselves weakness.

4. Above the bridge of the nose – “The Bridge of Inner Conflict”

This is a horizontal or cross-shaped fold between the eyebrows, closer to the nose. Such a person may experience conflict between feelings and reason, between what “must be” and what “wants to be.” These are often finely feeling, but very reserved natures. They live in inner conflict with themselves, constantly controlling their emotions and feelings. Such people possess psychological depth. However, constant internal tension has a harmful effect on health. It is necessary to allow emotions an outlet, otherwise the tension will manifest not only on the face, but in the body. It is useful to work with oneself through creativity, therapy, physical activity.

5. Deep Fold Across the Entire Forehead – “Scar of the Past”

When on the forehead are one or two deep horizontal furrows, it indicates emotional heaviness lived through. Such a wrinkle is not just about age; it is about events that left a mark.

This is a person who has endured much. Thought much, suffered much, held much within. There is silence in their eyes, and on their forehead – the trace of storms lived through. They have a strong character, emotional stability, endowed with wisdom and bear the weight of past trauma. These wrinkles are memory, but not a sentence. To find new meanings, to breathe lightness into what has become heavy.

4. Shallow, Barely Noticeable “Vibrations” on the Forehead – “Soul’s Tremors”

Very emotional, sensitive people often have the tiniest, barely visible lines that appear and disappear depending on mood. You talk with them – and their forehead seems to live separately: then anxiety wrinkles it, then joy smooths it, then a tremor of uncertainty flickers. Such people are characterized by sensitivity, reactivity, quick inner excitation, they have a creative temperament. Such people burn out easily – it is important to regulate external stimuli. They need to learn to protect their energy, to not be too open to others’ storms.

How to take care of yourself if “thoughts in lines” already live on the forehead?

Do not fight the wrinkles – understand them. They do not make you worse. They say: “You lived. You felt. You thought.” Let go of control. Many wrinkles are from a cramped mind. Breathe. Meditate. Drink water. Sleep. Walk barefoot. Sometimes that matters more than cream. Express emotions in words, not only with your face. If you always stay silent, but inside you boil – the forehead will “speak” for you. Physical practices, such as yoga, forehead massage, facial exercises – all of this helps relax not just the skin, but the head. Your face is a book without a cover, but with the most sincere contents.

Wrinkles on the forehead are not a sign of fatigue, but traces that you have lived consciously. So don’t fear them, read them, understand them. And take care of who lives behind them – yourself. The forehead is not just part of the face. It is the façade of our thinking. It reflects not age, but the style of thought. Through it you can understand: are you a thinker, a seer, or a doer? Or – a little bit of everything? So next time, looking in the mirror, don’t rush to spot wrinkles or bald places. Look closely at the forehead. It is your personal horizon. Because from here you look at the world. And – from here the world looks at you.

1.3. Cheekbones: Will, Aggression, Stability

A person’s face is not just a surface. It is a map. On it there are plains, valleys, hidden paths and mountain ridges. And if you look closely, especially at the cheekbones – you can read a lot. More than words will say. More than behavior will show. Because cheekbones are the architecture of character.

Sharp Cheekbones: Incisors of Inner Will

Cheekbones, sharp, as if carved by a chisel – a trait of those whose life is a path of intense concentration. These people are, as a rule, restrained, composed, as though their inner selves are gathered in a fist.

They live not by inertia, but by intention. Every step is well thought-out. Every decision is weighed. Inside them is a string stretched between past and future, between fear and desire, between “I can’t” and “I must.” These are people whose inner world is not a quiet garden, but a mountain trail. They do not complain. They do not rush to share. Their strength is in the ability to be silent and to act. In their cheekbones is carved their toughness, their drive for control, their readiness to go all the way, even if the whole world is against them. Sharp cheekbones are like the tip of a dagger: beautiful, but dangerous. Don’t touch – you won’t be unscathed.

Soft, Smoothed Cheekbones: Flow, Kindness, Empathy

Cheekbones barely noticeable, smoothly blending with the line of the face – like waves that don’t crash, but caress the shore. These are the faces of those who move toward others. Those who listen before they speak. Who feel – even when they do not speak of it. Softness in the cheekbones is not from weakness. It is not a sign of submission, it is a sign of inner depth. These people do not run into the fray. They are those who bind wounds, who remain afterwards, who look into eyes when everyone else turns away. These are faces without sharp edges – because they do not cut. They accept. Such people have immense emotional resilience. Not in shouting, not in fists, but in the ability to hold another’s pain. For a long time. Quietly.

High Cheekbones: Born Observers and Bearers of Strength

Cheekbones rising under the eyes like two fortresses – found among those in whom energy lives, the desire to act, to be, to influence. This is a trait of leaders, observers, strategists. These people seem always “in the know.” Not because they control everything – but because they feel. Their gaze is sharp, squinting. They don’t just look – they see through. High cheekbones underscore this feeling: as if under their eyes there are not bones, but antennas. They pick up signals, vibrations, motivations of other people. These are faces with obvious strength. Sometimes – with charisma. Sometimes – with manipulativeness. But in any case they have influence. Their cheekbones are props of confidence. It is as if they hold the whole face in tension, in readiness – for speech, for action, for choice.

Low, Flattened Cheekbones: Quiet Resilience and Earthly Warmth

Cheekbones, almost invisible, set low, as if nature tried to hide them from the world – this is a trait of those who live in realities. They are not dreamers. They are not strategists. They are earthbound. Their value lies in reliability. They rarely promise more than they can deliver. But if they promised – they deliver. Their face is often simple, almost unremarkable, but in that there is depth. They do not play roles. Do not build masks. What is – that is what you see. Their cheekbones carry no challenge – and in that lies their honesty.

Asymmetric Cheekbones: Inner Contradictions, Power of Change

When one cheekbone is slightly higher, or a bit more angular, or when the face seems to tilt to one side – before you is a person mutable, fluid, living in half tones. There lives duality in them: they can be kind and brutal; strong and vulnerable. They do not have one “truth” – they have several. Asymmetry is often a reflection of trauma, breakthroughs, or internal conflict. Such people can swing to extremes. They may change life directions sharply, but not chaotically – in search of themselves. In that unevenness – the truth of life: for no one is absolutely straight. We are all a bit asymmetric inside. But for such people it comes out, into the architecture of the face.

Prominent Cheekbones with Strong Jaw: Frontal Fighters

If cheekbones protrude sharply and transition into a solid, wide jaw – before you is a front-line person. They do not go around things. They go straight. They do not seek diplomacy – they are focused on outcome. These are warrior-faces – not necessarily physical. They could be lawyers, managers, activists, doctors – anyone. But their common trait is the ability to take a blow and not yield. In those cheekbones – a fighting spirit. Not simply will, but will stripped to the nerves. Cheekbones are like the architect’s signature on a building. They don’t always shout about themselves. But they are the foundation. Through them you can tell how a person reacts to pressure. What lies under their skin – fear or resolve. Softness or restrained aggression. Acceptance or control. People have learned to read eyes – but cheekbones read something else. Not emotions, but structure. Not mood, but character. Look at cheekbones – and you’ll see: who is before you. A warrior, a listener, a wanderer or a leader. Because a face lies. But cheekbones – never. Sometimes you look at someone and see: those cheekbones they did not shape themselves. Those came from ancestors. From those who plowed the land, survived in the steppes, hid in trenches, built cities from ash.

Such cheekbones – dense, strong, a little rough. There is no glamour beloved by gloss, but there is power – inexplicable, ancient. It seems not anatomy, but the call of the tribe. In them is genetic memory: of those who did not fear. Who held on. Who did not complain when it hurt. And a person with such cheekbones can be soft, even vulnerable – but his face already carries the message: “I stand here not alone. In me – a whole lineage.” Such cheekbones are not chosen. They are inherited. Like a heavy name, like fate. You do not argue with them. You simply carry them. Or hide them – if ashamed of your strength. There are other cheekbones – those not given at birth, but carved by will.

In youth such faces are often round, soft, diffused. But with years – they sharpen, become narrower. The jaw becomes sharp, the cheekbones noticeable. As if a person themselves sculpted them from fear, from challenges, from pain. This is especially visible in those who lost much. Who bit their lips when they could not scream. Who learned to say “no,” when before they lived in appeasement. Such cheekbones – not just bone. They are armour. They are the layer of slaps you did not flinch from, but stood firmer. You look at that face and understand – it was not born like that. It became like that. It earned itself. And then there are faces – complex, ambiguous. They seem to have cheekbones, and then not. In profile they appear and disappear. Then seem symmetrical, then not. Lines break, forms tangle.

These cheekbones – like a metaphor of an inner labyrinth. In such people there is always a second layer. What you see – is not all. They may seem sharp – but inside delicate. Or appear gentle – but hide a wolf’s resolve. You cannot be superficial with them. You cannot “read” them in a minute. They live on several planes at once. Their face – not a portrait. It is a multilayered mosaic, assembled from half-tones, unspoken things, internal contradictions. A cheekbone – sometimes emerges into the light – sometimes retreats into shadow. Like an emotion left unsaid. Like a strength not shown. Sometimes, cheekbones look as if they’re tired themselves. They are heavy, wide, with a smooth transition into a dense lower jaw. There’s no aggression in such faces. There is – history.They are like stones, shaped by time. These people may have a weary gaze, a slightly hunched back – but the cheekbones still hold the face. They hold it, like the enduring columns of an old building. You look at these cheekbones and understand: this person didn’t just “live” – they survived. They’ve been washed ashore more than once after the storm. They know the value of words. Behind them – not just years, but loss. And still – they stand. It’s not “bravery.” It is – quiet continuation. There are cheekbones you can barely see. They are thin, delicate, like porcelain. Light passes over them gently, not lingering. These faces – like watercolors. There’s no harshness in them, no angles. There is – refinement. Often, they belong to artists – painters, musicians – or simply people who feel too much. They don’t hold the world – they let it pass through them. Every word – wounds. Every touch – leaves a trace. Their cheekbones – like a fragile boundary between this world and another. They may be beautiful. Even ethereal. But in them is a fragility you want to protect. Or, on the contrary – that frightens you, because behind it lies an infinite depth.Cheekbones are not just bone structure. They are inner accents. They are what the face is built upon.And if you know how to see – you’ll begin to understand: Whose cheekbones are a shield. Whose – a blade. Whose – a vessel. And whose – a scar. And when you look at someone – don’t rush to examine their eyes. The eyes can deceive, because in them there’s always a performance. But the cheekbones – always tell the truth. They do not know how to lie.

1.4. The Chin: Persistence, Control, Fear

The human face is a facade. But the chin – is the foundation. It goes unnoticed. It doesn’t shine like the eyes, doesn’t betray emotion like the lips, doesn’t grant grandeur like the cheekbones. But it is the point of support. The last line that stays still when the whole face trembles. The chin – is a nod to fate. Or a refusal to submit to it.

Chin as Resistance

Look at the one who stands before a challenge. Don’t look into their eyes. Look at their chin. If it’s raised – that’s not just a gesture of pride. It’s an internal laying-stone: “I will not bend.” Chin up – even if fear churns in your stomach, even if your legs feel like lead. It is a muscular shield, an instinctive protest, the last bastion before surrender. The world strikes – and you don’t lower your head. You just clench your jaw – and the chin remains in battle position. That is persistence. Not anger. Not bravery, but what comes after them: persistence – when you already fell, but still try to hold your chin up at the level of the horizon.

Chin as Conductor of Control

Have you ever noticed how one controls voice, speech, even silence? It all starts with the chin. A speaker who wants to be heard doesn’t just speak – they move their chin. They may push it slightly forward – and the voice sounds firmer. They may press it down – to create an effect of humility. They may freeze – and a pause will hang, heavier than words. Politician. Teacher. Manipulator. Predator. All of them know: he who controls his chin controls the dialogue.

And also – the chin reveals lies. When someone says “I am calm,” but the chin trembles – they are not calm. It’s not controllable. It’s the deep nerve, the reflex, a breach of inner control. Because the chin is connected with vulnerability. It is near the throat. Closer than anything. It is like a guard standing at the entrance to the soul. And a guard’s hands shake when truly afraid.

Chin as the Map of Fear

There are faces where the chin is slightly tucked. Just a bit. Almost imperceptible. But if you look closely – you see: the person seems to be holding themselves by the throat from the inside. This chin does not live, it is clenched, withdrawn. That is how fear hides. Not the kind that shouts. But the kind that lives with a person for years. Fear of rejection. Fear of failure. Fear of loneliness. This chin is not a throne. It is a cage. It does not carry will, it squeezes it. And the person may seem confident outwardly, may laugh loudly – but the chin does not lie. It trembles betrayingly at a whisper. It disappears in conflict. This is a chin tired of holding tension.

Stubborn Chin: A Donkey with a Granite Neck

And there are others. Chin forward, as if the person wants with their whole body to break through the wall with their forehead. These people don’t seek compromise. They don’t ask – they push ahead. In children, stubbornness is seen precisely there – when the lips are already twisted, and the chin is thrust into the air. In adults it becomes a character trait. Such a person can be difficult. Sometimes – impossible. But it is such a person who pulls the work forward when everyone else gives up. They do not admit defeat. Even when losing – their chin is like a bayonet: forward, forward, forward. Yes, they may be blind. Yes, they

may not always listen to others. But they have an engine built into their jaw.

Double Chin: Symbol of Softness or Armor?

In culture people often joke about double chins – as if weakness, extra weight, insecurity. But that is superficial. Sometimes a person with a double chin is softness in body, but stone in soul. A person who feels no need to prove anything to anyone. Their chin isn’t sharp like a blade, because they do not wave it like a flag. They live by other values. And sometimes – yes, it is armor. A layer between feelings and the world. A way to hide vulnerability. Like a soft collar you cling to when you feel afraid.

The Chin in History: A Silent Symbol of an Era

In Roman sculpture, the chin is a symbol of power. In emperors, it is always angular, masculine, pronounced. It was shaped not by the sculptors – but by the idea: “I am the law.”

In portraits of royal courts, chins are often small, but raised – not out of strength, but out of arrogance. This is no longer power – it is distance. In 20th-century portraits, the chin became human. It trembles in a soldier. It is lowered in a poet. It is clenched in a doctor who couldn’t save. The chin is not just a shape. It is a state of time. People look into the eyes to read mood. They watch hands to predict action. They listen to the voice to sense intention. But the real truth – is beneath the lips. The chin doesn’t speak. It holds. It holds you in place when you want to run. It holds back a scream. Or silence. It holds dignity. Or fear. There is essence in it. And maybe that’s why it’s so overlooked. It’s like a weight. And weights don’t scream about themselves. They simply hold.

The Chin – a Mark of the Final Word

The chin governs how a person finishes a conversation – both literally and figuratively. For example, people with a firmly protruding chin often strive to have the last word. They speak decisively, may be stubborn arguers. If someone ends phrases with a slight lift of the chin – it’s an unconscious attempt to assert their opinion.And if, on the contrary, the y lower the chin at the end – they are more inclined to yield, to seek compromise. A chin under tension – is a signal of conflict. When a person holds back emotions, especially anger or anxiety, one of the most reliable indicators is the muscles of the chin and beneath it (including the sublingual area). Fine trembling in the chin = inner tension, a suppressed reaction. Stiffness or asymmetry = insecurity, “chewing over” a decision internally. Even if the face appears calm, the chin can reveal a hidden inner storm.

Interesting: many influential people have a pronounced square chin. This is not only anatomy but also a “signal of dominance” in nonverbal culture. Sometimes, in conversation, a person literally “presses” their chin down, especially during conflict. This is not just a gesture – it is psychological suppression. Such a gesture is often combined with lowered eyebrows and narrowed eyes. It is the behavior of an aggressor who unconsciously “looms,” even while sitting at the table. If you notice this micro-gesture – be careful. It says: “I am ready to dominate.” With age, the chin “drops” not only because of muscles but also due to the heaviness of life. People who have experienced losses and disappointments often carry this in the settling line of the chin. But an interesting nuance: in truly strong-spirited people, the chin retains a “resilient” shape – not anatomically, but in the direction of movement.It is always slightly forward, even if the person is old and physically weak. Superman, Batman, Hercules – always have a powerful, masculine, square chin. This is no coincidenceIt has become an archetype of strength, determination, and heroism. Villains, especially in animation, often have an elongated or excessively angular chin – as an exaggeration of control, coldness, manipulation.

In Eastern tradition, especially in Chinese physiognomy (miànxiàng), a long chin is considered a sign of wisdom, longevity, and a “reserve of energy” for old age. An interesting fact: men who grow a beard only on the chin may subconsciously try to strengthen their “mask of control,” add “firmness” to themselves, or, on the contrary, hide weakness in the lower part of the face. This choice is often not about fashion – but a correction of the internal signal the person wants to transmit. The chin is a gesture that never became a gesture. It does not shout. It simply holds the face in a certain position. And by this – it speaks. It tells how confident a person is without using words. It shows where the person has broken and where they have grown. It indicates whether they are ready to listen or have already decided everything.

Chapter 2: The Eyes – Windows of Truth. The Eyes

The eyes are not the mirror of the soul. That’s a cliché. The eyes are oceans filled with time, through which currents of fear, desire, power, guilt, and attraction break through. They are not just holes through which we look at the world. They are cracks through which the world looks at us – and judges. Some have eyes quiet like a forest lake, hiding cunning or fatigue. Others have prickly eyes, as if carved from flint. Still others have endless, elusive eyes, as if whole worlds lie behind them, but access is closed. Words can lie. The body can pretend. But the gaze reveals what the person does not even know about themselves. Because the gaze is not a reflection – it is an emission. It is a vector: it is aimed somewhere. It attacks, flees, demands, embraces, hides – and in this choice, truth is born. That is why, if you want to know a person – don’t listen. Look. Not at the face. Not at the smile. But into the eyes. They are not just part of physiognomy.They are the navigation center of human nature.

2.1 Eyes: Position, Size, Depth of Gaze – as a Map of Character and Potential

Position of the Eyes

Widely spaced eyes

Like wide-open gates – such people are often open, easily accept new ideas, and are tolerant of others’ space. Often this indicates good spatial thinking, a tendency to see the whole picture rather than details. These people adapt easily, quickly “grasp” the atmosphere, and don’t intrude into others’ souls without invitation. But at the same time, they can be distracted, forget details, and not “read into” the essence.

Closely spaced eyes

Like horse blinders – focused, concentrated, intense. These people think finely, deeply, narrowly, sometimes obsessively. Often this implies a tendency toward analysis, perfectionism, attention to small details, sometimes suspicion. Such people are often cautious; they need time to open up. They may also overestimate threats and often fear expanding boundaries.

Symmetry or asymmetry of eye placement

Symmetrically placed eyes indicate inner order, logical thinking. One eye slightly higher or wider is a subtle sign of inner conflict. Such people are often dual: outwardly one thing, inwardly another. Usually, these traits belong to people in creative professions – artists, writers, manipulators, philosophers.

2.2 Size of the Eyes: Scale of Perception and Degree of Sensitivity

Large eyes

These eyes soak up the world like a sponge. People with such eyes tend to be emotional, sensitive, and observant. They are easily excited, inspired, but also easily hurt. They often have a strong visual imagination and a creative mindset. By nature, these are open people who “trust their eyes” and do not hide their reactions.

Small eyes

These eyes are like aiming sights. They don’t look – they assess. The character of a person with such eyes is rational, restrained, cautious. Such people are not inclined to express emotions. They have an analytical mind and strategic thinking. They conserve energy, “observe carefully,” and don’t rush headlong into relationships.

Almond-shaped eyes

The most universal and balanced shape. Like a smooth, elongated raindrop. This shape implies high intuition, flexibility, and the ability to “read” the environment in its owner. Such eyes are found in people who can be different: calm and sharp, gentle and decisive. They know how to keep distance without closing off and show warmth without spilling over. These eyes are often found in people who are diplomatic, wise, and internally stable.

Interestingly, almond-shaped eyes in animals are often found in those who are both hunters and observers – foxes, wolves, cats.

Narrow, “slit-like” eyes

These eyes look squinted even when calm. They seem to be constantly analyzing something. Their character: thoughtful, secretive, practical.

These people have internal discipline, conserving energy, time, and emotions. Often they are critical thinkers, not easily swayed by external impressions. They never fully show what they feel. Even if they love – they show it sparingly. They may be suspicious, closed to new things, and have difficulty trusting. Interestingly, in Eastern cultures, narrow eyes are associated with self-control and inner order.

Deep-set eyes

These eyes look out from the shadows, as if from inside a cave. But there is no darkness there, only depth. Such eyes indicate seriousness, strategic thinking, and a tendency toward self-reflection in their owner. These people do not rush to open up or let everyone into their space. Their inner life is often much richer than their external activity. Often they are introverts with a vast inner world. Many tend toward isolation, guardedness, and excessive self-control. It has long been noted that many philosophers, writers, and “quiet leaders” have deep-set eyes.

Bulging eyes

These eyes seem to hang over the world. They don’t just look – they jump out into space. People with such eye shapes are often spontaneous, lively, prone to hyper-reactions. They are very communicative, vividly express emotions, “speak with their eyes,” and at the same time are impatient, quickly excited, sometimes anxious or dramatic. In groups, they are noticeable, loud, impulsive. They are at risk of emotional overload; many have tendencies toward panic and sudden mood swings. Notice that many actors-comedians and charismatic TV hosts often have bulging eye shapes.

Downturned outer corners of the eyes (sad eyes)

In such eyes, it’s as if someone has already cried. Even if the person is smiling. People with such eyes have a delicate emotional makeup, nostalgia, and a tendency toward self-sacrifice. Often – compassionate, but a little tired. As if they carry the sadness of other people with them. These people are good listeners, gentle friends, but rarely truly relax. They can be dependent on attachments, prone to “living someone else’s pain.” Such eyes are often found in those who have “overworked” emotional burdens in life – therapists, teachers, older brothers and sisters.

Upturned outer corners of the eyes (predator eyes)

In these eyes – determination and tension. They seem always ready to pounce. The character of such people is proactive, leadership-driven, controlling. Often these are people with high ambitions, strategists, managers. You can feel the pressure in them – they don’t relax until they achieve their goal. They can be overly dominating, unaware of others’ feelings. Take a closer look: many strong leaders have this eye shape, especially combined with a hard gaze.

Asymmetrical eyes (one eye differs in shape or “liveliness”)

It’s as if one eye says: “Look at me,” while the other says: “Don’t come too close.” This indicates a dual nature, an internal struggle between role and essence. These are talented but unstable people, living on the border between light and shadow. They can seem strange, attractive, and contradictory at the same time. Interestingly, many artists, creative people, and charismatic leaders often have this “slight crookedness of truth.”

The eye is not just a tool of perception. Its shape is an engraving on the surface of the psyche. You can read it like the lines of a palm:

Is a person open – or closed? Do they live outwardly – or inwardly? Do they move toward the world – or away from it? And if you learn to see not only the light in the eyes but also the shadow of their form – you will learn to understand people much deeper than they understand themselves. When you look at a person, their eyes don’t just tell you who they are. They project into you their way of being, their scale, focus, depth, tension, speed, and even pain. If cheekbones are the carved rock of character, and the chin is the platform of will, then the eyes are a beam coming from the center of their essence. And if you learn to read it, you will see not only the person in front of you – but also who they can become.

2.3 Gaze during lying, fatigue, attraction

In psychology, there are many ways to learn more about a person’s inner world, and one of them is observing their gaze. It may seem that ordinary eye movements, gaze direction, blinking frequency – all this can appear trivial. But in fact, these nonverbal cues can reveal a lot about psycho-emotional states, personality traits, and even the presence of certain mental or neurological disorders. During communication, a person unconsciously expresses their state through their eyes. For example, when we are anxious or tense, pupils may dilate, and the gaze may dart from side to side. When very tired, the gaze becomes “dim,” unfocused. If a person feels confident, their eyes calmly look the interlocutor in the face, without sharp movements or avoidance.

Eye contact plays a key role in interpersonal interaction. People with an open, direct gaze are often perceived as confident, sincere, and friendly. Conversely, avoiding eye contact may indicate shyness, anxiety, or even distrust. It is important to remember that such traits do not always indicate pathology – sometimes it is simply a manifestation of individual temperament or cultural norms.

The gaze holds particular significance in diagnosing conditions related to mental or nervous system disorders. For example, people with autism often have difficulty establishing and maintaining eye contact. In schizophrenia, a detached, “empty” gaze may be observed, along with impaired ability to track moving objects. In patients with Parkinson’s disease, the gaze becomes fixed, and blinking occurs less frequently. Modern technologies allow for highly precise study of eye movement. One such method is eye-tracking. This is a way to record and analyze where and how a person looks: what they pay attention to, how long they fixate on an object, and how their focus moves. These data are used not only in clinical psychology but also, for example, in marketing, UX design, and cognitive brain research.

Besides technological solutions, psychodiagnostics actively employs observation of a person’s behavior during conversation, including projective techniques. For instance, when interpreting the Rorschach test, it is important to pay attention to how the person examines the images: how long, in what order, and which details they notice. This can provide additional information about their perception and thinking. Interestingly, some specialists also attempt to use gaze direction to detect signs of lying. It is believed that when trying to recall real events, a person more often looks in one direction (for example, up-left), while during fabrication or deception – in another (up-right). However, such interpretations require caution and cannot be considered absolutely reliable indicators. It is worth noting that gaze cannot be used as the sole criterion in psychological diagnosis. It must be considered in the context of the person’s overall behavior, speech, emotional state, as well as in combination with other diagnostic methods. Furthermore, visual habits can vary greatly depending on culture, age, upbringing, and social norms.

Overall, the gaze is not just a physiological reaction or gesture. It is a kind of “window” into the human psyche through which subtle signals inaccessible to words can be perceived. The ability to recognize these signals makes a psychologist more sensitive and accurate in their work, especially when this knowledge is combined with a scientific approach and professional ethics. Interest in the gaze as a diagnostic tool did not arise by chance. Since ancient times, people have attached special significance to the eyes – it is no coincidence they are called the “mirror of the soul.” Even without scientific knowledge, our ancestors intuitively felt: you can understand what a person feels or thinks by their eyes. Modern psychology has only confirmed this observation and made the gaze the subject of serious scientific research.

Particular attention is paid to the gaze in psychotherapy as well. During sessions, the psychotherapist observes how the client establishes contact, how willingly they look into the eyes, and how they react to certain topics. For example, a person avoiding gaze may unconsciously protect themselves from emotional discomfort, trying not to “let” another person into their inner space. Conversely, an intense, fixed gaze sometimes indicates hidden aggression or an attempt to control the situation.

In work with children, the gaze also plays an important role. Young children who have not established eye contact with parents or adults may exhibit developmental delays or communication problems. This is especially important in the early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders, where the absence or reduced frequency of eye contact is one of the first warning signs.

Sometimes eye movement becomes an indicator of cognitive processes. Research has shown that when a person thinks, recalls, or makes decisions, their eyes “hint” at what is happening in their mind. The direction of the gaze, duration of fixation, even blinking frequency – all of this can reflect the level of mental effort, engagement in a task, degree of doubt, or confidence in the answer.

Of course, cultural differences must not be forgotten. In some Eastern cultures, for example, direct eye contact may be considered disrespectful, especially toward elders. Meanwhile, in Western culture, direct gaze is often interpreted as a sign of honesty and openness. Therefore, it is important to consider the sociocultural context before drawing any conclusions based on eye behavior.

Modern science goes even further: within neuropsychology and cognitive science, the interconnections between eye movement and brain function are studied. Research using functional MRI and eye-tracking allows observation of which areas of the brain activate during particular eye movements. These data are applied not only in diagnostics but also in rehabilitation of patients after strokes, traumatic brain injuries, as well as in working with attention and memory disorders.

All this shows that the gaze is not just a physiological function but a complex system closely linked to our psyche. It simultaneously serves as a means of perception, communication, and reflection of internal processes. The ability to “read” the gaze helps a psychologist to understand the client more deeply, especially in cases where words are powerless or do not provide a full picture. In practical psychodiagnostics, observation of the gaze is often combined with other methods: tests, conversation, projective techniques. Such a comprehensive approach allows conclusions to be more reliable and accurate. The main thing is to approach this professionally, avoiding hasty and superficial interpretations. As we can see, a person’s gaze is a subtle but incredibly informative tool that can reveal much about what is happening inside. In the hands of an experienced specialist, it becomes not just a means of observation but a part of deep understanding of the personality and their inner world.

Three Gazes – Three Exposed Parts of the Soul

Lies, Fatigue, Attraction – these are three states in which the gaze ceases to be a diplomat and becomes a betrayer. Or, conversely – a revealer of truth. When we evaluate a person – their speech, posture, style of behavior give us a shell. But the gaze is the place where a person forgets how to lie, even if they control everything else perfectly. It is here that we read not a mask, but the structure of the psyche. Not a pose, but the internal coordinate system. A person who lies is, in a sense, an actor performing on their own stage. But a good actor knows their role and controls their gaze. A liar does not. Their gaze falls out of the plot.

What does lying reveal in the gaze?

Insecurity – when a lie is born out of fear of consequences, the gaze becomes timid, jerky, apologetic. Such a person is not dangerous – they simply lack a firm foundation. Manipulativeness – a liar who believes in their own lie will look straight into the eyes. For a long time, too long. Their gaze is not sincerity, but an attack, an attempt to “push the truth” into the interlocutor. Such a person is capable of psychological pressure, control, and can be emotionally dangerous. Split nature – if truth and lie battle within a person, their gaze becomes dual: one part of the face is calm, the other reveals tension. This is often seen in people living on the border between morality and benefit – capable of both loyalty and betrayal.

A vivid example here might be Benedict Arnold, the American general who betrayed his country. Contemporaries said his gaze “darkened” long before the betrayal. He did not avert his eyes – he fell into them, as if losing connection with himself. Thus, deceit not only distorts the gaze – it carves out part of a person’s honesty, and this is visible. Whether a person can lie easily is a sign of flexibility or moral emptiness. Insecure lying = dependence on others’ opinions, weakness. Cold lying = potential danger, tendency to manipulate. When a person is tired – not only physically but existentially – their gaze drops. They no longer demand, seek, or defend themselves. It is a gaze of surrender, but not necessarily defeat.

Deep fatigue speaks of responsibility. It is not weakness but a trace of struggle. People whose gaze does not fade even in fatigue are bearers of an inner fire, potential leaders, strong-willed natures. And if a person looks lively but their eyes are empty – this is a sign of mental overload, internal reset. Such a person may be on the verge of burnout or psychological collapse. A vivid example – Churchill during the London bombings. In his famous photo, his gaze is tired, framed by a cigar and determination. This is not weakness – it is profound mental strength, squeezed out until only resilience remains. Fatigue reveals not how a person works, but what they hold onto.

Does the gaze fall in fatigue – or hold the line? This is the key to the inner architecture. Eyes that do not lose their light even in exhaustion are a sign of high internal culture, responsibility, and leadership resources. A tired but clear gaze says: the person knows how to suffer – and still move forward. If lying is a gaze that leads away from the truth, and fatigue is a gaze that demands nothing, then attraction is a gaze that has already demanded. A person may think they speak politely, keep their distance. But if there is attraction in the eyes, it cannot be hidden.

The eyes become a magnet: they do not just reflect desire – they already act, even if the body is still motionless. What does attraction say about a person? People who cannot hide attraction are often more sensual, impulsive, “alive,” but less stable. Those who control their gaze but still reveal interest are intellectual predators, people with deep willpower, able to manage themselves. And some hide attraction in irony, half-smiles, slowed-down glances – and these are often the most dangerous: they know how to use emotion as a tool of influence. For a historical example – Salome in Gustave Moreau’s paintings. Her gaze is not flirtation. It is the power of desire that intoxicates and beheads. Or Catherine de’ Medici – a woman whose gaze combined passion and cold-bloodedness. She fell in love, schemed, and executed, never changing the expression in her eyes.

Attraction shows the level of instinctual energy and how a person manages it. The ability to hold a gaze when attracted is a sign of strength. The ability to release it is a sign of freedom. A gaze in lying reveals the structure of morality. A gaze in fatigue shows the depth of psychological endurance. A gaze in attraction exposes the style of desire, willpower, and passion potential. It is precisely in these “borderline” states that we see the real person, without decor – because filters drop away in extremes. Want to understand character? Don’t look when they say the right words. Look when they lied. When they are exhausted. When they wanted – then the main thing will be revealed: not who they seem to be, but who they can become.

2.4. Diagnosis by Eye Movement (Neurolinguistics and Eastern Approaches)

Since time immemorial, people have tried to read each other without words. In noisy cities and quiet villages, in the palaces of sages and among wandering healers, one question troubled minds: what does a person hide behind the expression of their eyes? It is no coincidence that the saying goes: “The eyes cannot lie.” This expression is not just a poetic image but the result of millennia of observation. Indeed, even when a person tries to control their speech, facial expressions, gestures – their gaze continues to live its own, sometimes honest, life. In Chinese medicine and philosophy, the eyes have always been considered a reflection of the state of “shén” – the spirit, life energy. If the eyes are clear, shining – it means the spirit is strong, and the person is in balance. If the gaze is cloudy, tired, or “wandering” – this is a sign of exhaustion, emotional disturbance, and sometimes illness.

Masters of Chinese diagnostics did not ask many questions. They simply watched. By the color of the iris, the droop of the eyelids, the direction of the gaze, and its mobility, they determined what was happening inside the body and mind of the patient. In Japan, samurai taught young warriors not just to observe an opponent, but to read their intentions through their eyes. It was believed that the eyes reveal the movement of “ki” – internal energy, and, therefore, the first hint of an attack.

If the East read the soul through the eyes, the West decided to approach the matter pragmatically and systematically. In the 1970s, a science emerged that loudly proclaimed: “Eye movement can reveal how a person thinks!” Thus, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) was born.

One of the most famous theses of NLP is that the direction of the eyes indicates which representational systems are active at the moment of speech. Roughly speaking, if a person looks up – they visualize; to the side – they hear internal voices; down – they feel or analyze internal dialogues. Moreover, even the sides were differentiated: right – constructing, left – remembering.

For example: imagine you ask a friend, “What was your room like in childhood?”

If he looks up-left – most likely he is recalling. And if up-right – perhaps imagining (or inventing).

Of course, this is a simplified scheme. Researchers over time began to notice that it’s not so straightforward: eye movement is influenced by many factors – from left-handedness to stress level. But despite criticism, the idea remained in culture: even today many watch for the “looking up” as a possible hint of lying. In 1983, an investigator in London said: during an interrogation, the suspect answered confidently, but his eyes each time the question “Where were you at that time?” was asked, moved up and to the right. “He was constructing an answer,” thought the investigator. Later it turned out – the man was indeed lying.

Was this NLP in action or just intuition? Nobody knows. But since then neuro-linguistics began to be studied in police work, business, and even education. Today, with the development of technology, we can see what previously escaped the eye. Eye-tracking – a technology that records eye movements with incredible precision – is used in advertising, UX design, psychology. Thanks to it, we know how the gaze travels across the screen, what it lingers on, what causes interest, and what causes rejection.

In neuropsychology, eye-tracking is even used to study the behavior of children with autism, the reactions of patients with dementia, and the mechanisms of attention. What was once considered “reading by the eyes” is now becoming an exact science, armed with sensors and algorithms. But despite technology and scientific theories, the art of “reading” a person by their eyes remains an art. One wise man once said: “To see the truth in another’s eyes – you must first clear your own.”

And indeed, no device, no technique can replace a careful, respectful human gaze. Because the eyes are not just a source of information. They are a living dialogue without words, requiring not only knowledge but also intuition, empathy, and soulful sensitivity. Diagnosis by eye movement is a bridge between ancient intuition and modern science. The East teaches us to see the spirit behind the gaze, the West – to recognize thinking patterns. And the truth, as always, lies somewhere in the middle – in the ability to notice and feel.

An old psychology professor once said to me:

– Don’t look at the words, look into the eyes. They will tell you everything, even if the tongue is silent.

He smiled, took off his glasses, and looked at me with such clarity as if he wanted to read my soul. Back then, I didn’t yet understand how right he was.

Years passed. I sat in university halls, lectured on the psyche and behavior, saw dozens, hundreds, thousands of eyes. And I became more and more convinced: the eyes are not the mirror of the soul, but an open book, in which much more is written than we realize.

The eye is not just a sensory organ. It is simultaneously a receiver and a transmitter. It sees, remembers, reacts, and – what is especially important – reveals what is hidden beneath the layer of logic and speech constructions.

Every person has their own “language of the eyes,” but there are common patterns by which much can be understood: Someone looks straight and steadily – it means they are confident and open. Often these are leaders, proactive, decisive personalities.

Someone hides their gaze, looks sideways or down – anxious, doubtful, possibly afraid of being misunderstood. These are introverts, closed off or vulnerable people.

Sometimes the gaze is fleeting – such people are internally tense, find it difficult to fix attention. And sometimes the gaze is piercing, as if it “bites” into the interlocutor: before you is an analyst, a strategist, possibly a controller. There is a warm soft gaze, with a slight smile in the eyes, as if the person embraces you without words. These people are easy to be with; they give a sense of security.

Eye Movements and the “Map of Thinking”

But the essence is not only hidden in the direction of the gaze. Eye movement is like a route along which our thought wanders. In the 1970s, when neuro-linguists began observing how a person recalls or imagines, they noticed a strange regularity: the eyes move along certain trajectories depending on the type of thinking. And here was born a technique, almost alchemical in nature:

when a person recalls a visual image, they more often look up-left (for right-handers). When they imagine a picture that did not exist – up-right.

During auditory memories, the gaze goes sideways, towards the ears – “I hear how it was.”

Down – where feelings reside.

Gaze down-left – internal dialogue, analysis.

Down-right – bodily sensations, emotions.

You ask a friend:

– Imagine what your school classroom looked like.

He looks up-left – you smile: “So, he remembers.”

You ask:

– And what would the school look like if it were built in the style of a castle?

He looks up-right – and maybe you notice a slight smile of fantasy.

Such analysis is not a lie detector, but a tool to understand how a person’s thinking is arranged: is he more visual, auditory, or kinesthetic? Is he inclined to analyze or to dream? Does he have constructive imagination or does he live by facts?

Gaze and Character: How Eyes Paint a Psychological Portrait

Sometimes it seems to me that eyes are brushes, and character is the canvas. With one stroke – and you already see whether you are facing a dreamer-artist or a pragmatic realist.

A quick, jerky gaze, constantly moving around the room, may indicate an anxious nature, hyperexcitability, or even hidden insecurity.

Rare blinking, as if the person “freezes” in their gaze, is often a sign of deep concentration. Frequent blinking, on the contrary, may indicate anxiety, nervousness, or even lying.

Lowered eyes, especially when talking about oneself, indicate vulnerability, shame, embarrassment.

Constant tension in the eye muscles – inner mobilization, the person is “on guard” even at rest.

Now imagine: you sit opposite a person, they say not a word, but their eyes wander around the room, slightly squinted, gaze tense. You already feel: they are on alert. And conversely – another person looks openly, calmly, their eyes “breathe” – you relax beside them.

This is psychodiagnostics of the gaze – when you don’t guess, but see.

Eye-Tracking: When Technology Learned to Read the Gaze

But if earlier all these observations were a matter of intuition, today science has come to the rescue. Eye-tracking is a technology that precisely records every pupil movement, every fixation, pause, and shift of the gaze. Roughly speaking, eye-tracking is a soul recorder through the eyes.

It shows which objects attract attention, how long a person looks at them, how they move their gaze in space.

In psychology, it is used to study concentration, interests, attention, fatigue. In UX design – to understand what in the interface is convenient and what irritates. In medicine – to diagnose autism, dementia, stroke consequences. In education, it is used to understand how a learner perceives the text, where they “get stuck” and where they “skim.”

Once, an ancient doctor squinted his eyes to better see the sparkle of the patient’s pupil. Today – a neuropsychologist leans over him with a laptop and sensors, analyzing how long he looks at each image in a cognitive test.

I recall one session. A young woman sat opposite me. She smiled. Her words were confident, her voice even. But her eyes darted about. Not chaotically – no. They rapidly hid in the corner every time the conversation touched on her parents. The same route, like a laid path – down-right, down-right. “Bodily memories,” I thought. Pain. She didn’t speak about it. But her eyes told everything. Since then, I increasingly think that a person does not just look with their eyes – they remember, feel, defend, and open up.

We live in a world where technology penetrates deeper into human nature. We can measure the gaze to the millimeter, build heat maps of fixations, even create behavior models based on eye movements. But one thing remains unchanged: attention to the person.

Eye-tracking is a tool. NLP techniques – a hint. And the gaze – a living fabric of personality, which only reveals itself in response to another living attention. So next time you look someone in the eyes – linger for a second. Not to analyze. But to see. Maybe, at that moment, someone will feel for the first time that they have finally been understood – without words.

Basics of Eye Movement Reactions in NLP

In neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), there is a technique related to eye movement reactions (eye signals), which supposedly allows one to determine how a person thinks, which representational systems they use (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.), and also attempts to compose a psychological portrait based on the peculiarities of the gaze and eye movements.

When a person recalls or imagines something, their eyes (unconsciously) move in certain directions. According to NLP, this can be used to understand which thinking system they are applying at that moment. Important: for left-handed people, everything can be mirrored and opposite.

Here is the full translation preserving all punctuation:

Important: For left-handed people, everything may be mirrored and opposite.

Example interpretation: if a person, when asked “What did your first teacher look like?” looks up-left, they are recalling an image – meaning they are answering honestly. If they look up-right, they are imagining an image – possibly fantasizing or inventing.

1. Eye Movements in NLP (Accessing Cues)

In NLP, it is believed that eye movements can reflect which perceptual system a person is using at the moment of speaking or thinking.

Main directions of eye movements:

(for right-handed people – for left-handed people often everything is reversed)

2. Representational Systems

In NLP, all people are divided into types depending on their preferred system of perceiving the world:

3. Personality Types in NLP

NLP uses its own approaches to personality typology but often overlaps with other systems, such as MBTI, DISC, metaprograms, and others. In NLP, special attention is given to metaprograms – internal filters of thinking.

Examples of metaprograms:

Metaprogram | Poles | Examples

Motivation | Toward the goal / Away from the problem | A person acts “to get” or “to avoid”

Orientation | Self / Others | Makes decisions based on self or the influence of others

Strategy | Process / Result | Likes the process or is only interested in the outcome

Comparison | Similarities / Differences | Sees what is common or what is different

4. How It’s All Connected

Eye movements help to “read” in real time which perception channels are active. Representational systems provide understanding of how a person thinks and perceives information.

Personality type and metaprograms explain deeper strategies of thinking, decision-making, and motivation. All together, this allows for accurately choosing the language of communication, argumentation, building rapport, and influencing behavior.

A short example. Imagine an interlocutor. When asked “How did you understand this?” they look down-right → the kinesthetic system is active.In speech: “I feel that this is right,” “I’m uncomfortable.“This means the person is kinesthetic, and it’s better to communicate with them through sensory imagery.

Predominant representational system:

How to use for a psychological portrait:

Often looks up – visual.

Often looks sideways – auditory.

Often looks down – kinesthetic or reflective digital.

Level of control and sincerity:

Rapid micro eye movements may indicate insecurity.

Prolonged “frozen” gaze – stress, internal struggle, lying (in combination with other signs).

Eye characteristics:

Dilated pupils – interest, excitement, sometimes stress

Frequent blinking – nervousness, anxiety.

Rare blinking – concentration, control, sometimes deception.

It should be noted that NLP is not recognized by the scientific community as a strictly proven methodology. Eye movement signals are not always universal and depend on context, culture, personality, and the person’s condition. It’s better to use them as part of a comprehensive observation rather than as a sole tool.

Recommendations for skill development:

Practice observing interlocutors in live communication. Compare eye movements with their responses. Use questions that provoke visual, auditory, and kinesthetic thinking. Study basic psychotypes (MBTI, DISC, socionics) and connect them with nonverbal behavior.

Throughout the chapter, we have examined how eye movements can reflect internal cognitive processes of a person. The approach of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) proposes a model according to which the direction of gaze may indicate the active representational system: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or digital.

By observing whether a person looks up, sideways, or down, we can guess whether they are remembering, imagining, feeling, or having an internal dialogue. For example, an up-left gaze may indicate visual memories, while down-right may indicate access to bodily sensations.

Although this model lacks strict scientific verification and cannot be used as the sole method of interpreting behavior, it is a useful observational tool, especially in coaching, psychology, negotiations, and everyday communication. It helps better understand the interlocutor, track hidden emotions and internal reactions that are not always expressed in words.

Thus, eyes can indeed be considered a kind of “windows of truth” – not in a mystical, but in a behavioral and cognitive sense. They give an opportunity to look beyond verbal communication and roughly determine what is happening in a person’s mind during conversation. The main thing to remember: any behavioral signals require contextual interpretation and respectful, ethical application.

Chapter 3: Mouth, Lips, Jaw

When meeting a stranger, our gaze initially involuntarily seeks the eyes – the mirror of the soul, as the saying goes. But already in the next moments, almost unnoticed by ourselves, attention slides downward – to the mouth. It is there that something more grounded, yet no less important, hides – instincts, willpower, determination, passion. There, in the curve of the lips, in the firmness of the jaw, in the way the mouth is held – lies a character code that physiognomy teaches us to read like ancient writing carved into the stone of the human face.

Lips can be silent, but their shape speaks eloquently. Full or thin, symmetrical or with a break, they reveal not only temperament but also emotional plasticity, the ability to empathize or, on the contrary, a tendency to withdraw. The jaw – like a foundation in the architecture of the face – testifies to the inner backbone. Massive, stable, stubborn – it belongs to a fighter, unyielding. Soft, with smooth lines – it may indicate flexibility of character, compliance, or even indecisiveness.

This chapter is a journey into the lower part of the face, where words are not yet spoken but the truth is already read. Here we will study how the shape of the mouth can tell about passion and restraint, how the corner of the lips reveals one’s life attitude, and how the jawline reflects willpower or its absence. We will learn to see not only physiology but also the psyche reflected in it, as if through a thin mirror.

So, let’s go below the eyes – where instincts, emotions, signals, and traces of lived years hide. There – the mouth, lips, jaw. There – the key to human essence, disguised under the familiar lines of the face.

3.1. Determining the Essence and Character of a Person by the Structure of Lips and Nasolabial Folds

If the eyes are the heavens of the human soul, then the lips are the earth on which it lives. It is here that energies are concentrated which determine our interaction with the world: how we express feelings, how we speak, kiss, argue, ask, and remain silent. Lips are the gates through which the essence of a person emerges. They can be generous or restrained, tense or relaxed, capricious, strong-willed, manipulative, or childishly open. And the nasolabial folds – the paths of lived emotions, traces of character left on the skin by time and the inner work of the soul.

Shape and Types of Lips

1. Full Lips

They speak of sensuality, generosity of the soul, a desire for pleasures, and emotional openness. Such people often love life in its bodily manifestations: delicious food, touches, tenderness. They can be caring but also prone to dependency on pleasures. It is believed that a woman with plump, soft lips can be emotional, prone to attachments, and sometimes excessively sentimental.

2. Thin Lips

Restraint, calculation, inner concentration. Such lips are a sign of a person not prone to emotional outbursts. He is more likely to think than to speak. A man with thin, tightly pressed lips can be disciplined, even ascetic, and in communication – laconic and precise.

3. Wide Mouth with Stretched Lips

A sign of sociability, artistry, and eloquence. Such people are often natural storytellers, singers, actors. A smile that spreads across the entire face reveals an enthusiast, the soul of the company, a person who is not afraid to be heard.

4. Small Mouth with Rounded Lips

Indicates introversion, secrecy, sometimes naivety. A person with such a mouth may be timid but loyal and attentive to details. A woman with a small, neat mouth is an observer, not seeking the spotlight, but deeply feels and notices a lot.

5. Asymmetrical Lips

This feature often points to inner conflict, duality, or developed intuition and the ability to navigate complex situations. For a politician or lawyer, this can be a sign of mental flexibility, the ability to play different roles.

Nasolabial Folds – The Lines of Lived Essence

Nasolabial folds are like paths carved by time and emotions. Their depth, length, and direction can reveal much about a person.

1. Deep, clear folds from the wings of the nose to the corners of the mouth

These indicate strong will, decisiveness, and experience. This is a person who has gone through trials without losing themselves; on the contrary – tempered by them. For example, an aging entrepreneur whose every day is a struggle, and the folds on their face speak of the weight of decisions made over the years.

2. Soft, smooth nasolabial lines

Such lines belong to people of a gentle nature, diplomatic, more often striving for harmony than confrontation. These people might include a teacher who knows how to listen, does not suppress with authority, but gains respect through patience and involvement.

3. Short folds, barely noticeable

Indicate a youthful soul, even if the person is already aged. Often a sign of naivety, lack of life experience, or avoidance of serious emotional burdens. For example, this could be a woman avoiding conflicts, living more in fantasies than in real confrontations.

4. Folds running below the corners of the lips, as if framing the mouth downward

Such a formation may indicate a tendency toward pessimism, dissatisfaction with oneself or the world. A person with such lines often criticizes – both others and themselves. An intellectual with a delicate soul but struggling to accept the imperfection of the world.

5. Synthesis: lips and folds as a single text

It is important to consider lips and nasolabial folds not in isolation, but together. For example: full lips + deep folds mean you are facing a person generous in spirit but with a strong inner core, possibly a mother who has been through much but preserved love.

Thin lips + downward folds – a restrained character prone to analysis, possibly with a shadow of loneliness.

Wide mouth + soft folds – a charismatic person who easily connects with people but may avoid depth, preferring lightness.

Every face is a letter written without ink. Lips are lines of emotions, spoken and unspoken. Nasolabial folds are commas and periods of life experience. Learning to read this text brings us closer to understanding not only others but ourselves – as bearers of a face that does not lie, even when we try to.

3.2. The Structure of the Mouth and a Person’s Character

The mouth is not just a part of the face. It is an instrument of expressing will, emotions, thoughts, and intentions. Its shape, resting position, dynamics during speech and silence – all these are directly connected to the deep layers of personality. Surprisingly, the mouth can tell about a person even when they are silent. Especially then.

1. Tightness and tension – character like armor

If the mouth at rest is tight, lips thin, corners turned downward – you are facing a person used to holding themselves together, often literally. These are disciplined people, sometimes rigid. They can be closed off, distrustful, suspicious. Often, behind this tension hides trauma or a deep internal conflict. They control a lot – both themselves and others. For such people, the mouth seems to say: “I won’t allow myself to be vulnerable.”

But this very tension can be a sign of willpower. They know how to keep their word, do not give in to emotions, remain steady where others collapse. Their strength is endurance. Their weakness is distrust.

2. Relaxation and softness – open, flexible character

A mouth that is softly open at rest, with full lips and a relaxed line – belongs to people inclined to openness, trust, sensuality. They easily make contact, can empathize, love the joy of life.

Such a mouth says: “I am ready to feel and share.” This can be both a gift (they are kind, sincere, creative) and a risk – they are susceptible to influence, can be led, especially if there is no firm support in the jaw. Often – these are emotional, artistic people with well-developed intuition.

3. Mouth width – the scale of personality

A wide mouth is not only an anatomical feature but also a metaphor. Such people are usually expansive in expression: they speak easily, laugh, express their opinions. They have a strong connection with the outside world, with social environments. They are extroverts by nature, even if they don’t always behave loudly. A wide mouth seems to say: “The world is my stage, and I know how to perform on it.”

Often these are leaders, speakers, those who can manage attention. At the same time – they may be prone to dominance, verbal pressure, even manipulation.

4. Small mouth – internal composure and energy economy

A small mouth is a sign of introversion, caution, restraint. Such people do not like to spill out emotions. They can be observers who speak little but meaningfully. They are difficult to “read,” and that is their strength. A small mouth says: “I am not for everyone – only for my own.”

These are often loyal, reliable, finely sensitive personalities. They choose closeness, not publicity. In conflicts – they withdraw inside, but inside they may experience a storm.

5. Mouth asymmetry – internal tension, flexibility, or duality

When one side of the lips is higher or lower than the other, this is often a signal of internal split. Such people can be extraordinarily talented, with unconventional thinking, but internal tension is almost always felt in them. Asymmetry may say: “I am more than one role. Inside me is a whole dialogue.” They can see different sides, make complex decisions, adapt. But they can also hesitate, doubt, be prone to self-analysis and even self-sabotage. These are “faces of transition” – between past and future, external and internal, logic and intuition.

6. Corners of the lips – the “mood” of character

Raised corners – kindness, optimism, lightness, inner brightness. These people attract others.

Downturned corners – criticalness, tendency toward sadness, anxiety, distrust. Often these are “old souls,” even at a young age.

Horizontal corners – neutrality, stability, balance.

Corners of the lips are the simplest but most vivid clue to character: they reveal a person’s life stance – “yes,” “no,” or “we’ll see.”

How a person holds their mouth, how they speak, how they remain silent – all this forms their style of behavior in the world. Some fire words out, others hold them back until the last moment. Some smile even in pain, others do not smile even in happiness. And in this – truth. Because the mouth, like character, is almost impossible to fake for long. The face gives away what tries to be hidden.

The mouth is the gatekeeper of our soul. It lets through only what we are ready to release outwardly. But its shape and expression already reveal what hides inside.

Learning to see the mouth not only as a physical form but as an imprint of the inner world gives us a key to understanding a person without words.

3.3. A Practical View: How to “Read” Lips and Nasolabial Folds in Life

Having knowledge is one thing. Being able to use it is quite another. Below are concentrated practices, observations, and techniques that will help the reader train their physiognomic eye in real life.

Practice 1: Observer Training

Choose 5 faces from your environment (colleagues, acquaintances, passersby, interview subjects, film characters). Look at their lips and nasolabial folds.

Questions for analysis:

What emotions predominate in the face – openness or restraint? Folds: smooth or sharp? Straight or “drooping”? What does this say about their life path. Lips: are they prone to tension or relaxed? Does your interpretation of the face match how the person behaves? Result: You will begin to see not only the appearance but also the “inner text” written by the features of the face.

Practice 2: Mirror

What to do: Look at yourself in the mirror. Without smiling. Without emotions. Just a neutral face. Ask yourself: What are my lips like? Tight or relaxed? Full or thin? Symmetrical in shape? Do I have pronounced nasolabial folds? How do they run? Are they directed toward the corners of the mouth or lower? What might this say about me? Does it match my inner feeling of myself? Bonus: Take photos of your face in different emotional states – surprise, anger, sadness, joy. And see how lips and folds change. This is a great way to observe the dynamics of personality.

Practice 3: “Reading Faces” in Negotiations and Dialogue

What to do: When talking with a person – don’t look only into their eyes. Pay attention to lip tension – often a signal of inner resistance or disagreement; biting lips – a sign of anxiety or a desire to hide something; movements of the corners of the mouth – is the smile genuine or just a mask; the fold between nose and mouth deepens during irritation or dissatisfaction – this may signal a change in inner state. Result: You will start to “read” emotions even before the person expresses them in words.

Helpful Tip: How to Improve Your Own “Face of Character”

Physiognomy is not a verdict but a map. And some features can be adjusted not surgically, but behaviorally. Lips prone to tension → train facial muscle relaxation. Breathing exercises, conscious vowel pronunciation, and face yoga help. Downturned corners of the mouth → exercises to lift muscles work, as well as internal work: be more attentive to your reactions, especially to dissatisfaction and self-judgment. Harsh, deep nasolabial folds → soften with a change in emotional background: engage in gratitude practice, observe your face when calm and relaxed.

The shape of the lips or a fold alone will not give the whole picture. It’s important to consider age – folds on a 20-year-old and a 60-year-old mean different things, face type as a whole – lips on a narrow face read differently than on a wide face. Facial expressions – folds may be a result of habit, not character (for example, a person with a “smiling face” may have folds like a sincere kind person, but actually be manipulative).

Mini-Atlas: Lips and Nasolabial Folds

How to use the table:

During dialogue – observe how lips and folds change in the course of the conversation: when a person tenses up, smiles, gets angry.

When observing strangers – practice in public places: cafés, transport, office. Keep an internal “portrait”: what is visible by lips and folds? In self-analysis – monitor your habitual facial expressions. Which facial muscles are in constant tension? Which emotions do you most often “wear on your face”? The mouth is not just an anatomical facial feature. It is the boundary between inner and outer, the place where emotion and thought, word and silence, desire and action merge. Through it we manifest in the world: we speak truth or equivocate, confess love or defend ourselves with sharpness, kiss, scream, sing, get angry, ask, thank.

The structure of the lips, the shape of the mouth, its position at rest and in motion – all of this is not random. It is encrypted information about our essence. Some mouths stay silent even in conversation, others scream even in silence. Some easily let words go, others keep them like a secret. The shape of the mouth can tell more about us than any self-story. But it is important to remember: the mouth is a mobile structure. And therein lies its uniqueness. We can learn to control not only what we say, but also how we hold the mouth – in both literal and figurative senses. Facial expression is not just a reflection of character, but a tool for its formation. A smile, like tight lips, becomes a habit, and a habit becomes destiny. We have finished examining the mouth as a physiognomic characteristic, but this is only part of the whole picture. Because the entire face is a single landscape, and the mouth is an important, but not the only summit. Next we will descend deeper – to the jaw, the foundation of will and endurance, to the sculpture by which one can judge character as precisely as by the gaze – about feelings. The face continues to tell. One just needs to be able to listen.

3.4. Psychology of Form: Lips, Jaw and the Energy of the Lower Face

A person’s face is not simply a collection of features. It is a living landscape of the soul, and its lower part – lips, jaw, chin – plays a special role in this ensemble. If the eyes are the entrance, then lips and jaw are the exit. Here energy turns into action, word into deed, intention into will. It is precisely here you can read emotional patterns, the level of inner tension and the structure of a person’s psycho-energy.

The jaw is the foundation of the lower face. In physiognomy it symbolizes will, decisiveness, resistance to external and internal pressure. But most importantly – it is the place where emotional and muscular tension accumulates and manifests. Tense jaw. Clenched, as if “locked,” with a pronounced angle and frequent contractions of the chewing muscles – this is an indicator of self-control, suppressed anger, fear of losing control. Such a person usually holds everything inside. They don’t allow themselves “outbursts,” prefer to carry the situation in their “teeth,” yet inwardly are often worn-out. Common among perfectionists, highly responsible people, those with difficult childhoods. Practically: such people often show bruxism (teeth grinding), temporomandibular joint problems, tension headaches.

Relaxed jaw. The line is soft, the mouth freely closed, without lip compression or cheek tension. This signals that a person possesses flexibility in decision-making, emotional fluidity, and a low level of suppressed anger. Such people cope more easily with change, know how to release control. However, if relaxation borders on sluggishness – this is already psycho-energetic exhaustion or low tone.

Psycho-energy of the Lower Face: Strength, Clenching, Leakage

When we look at someone’s face, most often our gaze is drawn to the eyes – to where the soul pulses, where thoughts flash, feelings fade or ignite. But if you move down a bit – to the lips, jaw, chin – you can see something deeper. There is not the play of emotions, but their trace. Not intentions, but internal decision. There lives will. Or its absence.

The lower part of the face is the foundation on which the entire building of personality rests. It is here that readiness to act, to defend boundaries, to assert one’s drive or, on the contrary, to retreat, to contract, to fade into shadow is reflected. It is a kind of psycho-energetic platform that shows how a person manages their powers: whether they hold them inside, expend them without reserve, accumulate them, or waste them.

In people with strong psycho-energy in the lower face, the jawline is clear, but not aggressive. It does not shout for attention, but is present, like the internal framework of character. The chin is steady, balanced, without excessive massiveness or sharpness. The lips are not too tightly pressed, not limp – they are alive, yet held together. Such a person, as a rule, does not lose themselves under pressure. They know what “inner support” means. They need no push – they are already in motion. They may be silent or talkative, but behind every word or gesture there is weight: this is someone who is used to finishing what they start, not scattering themselves over trivialities.

A different picture – faces with suppressed psycho-energy. The jaw seems locked, lips tightly closed, trembling or pressed against the teeth, as if the person holds inside not just words but impulses, feelings, anger. These are faces of fighters, those who have defended too long. They live on the border of tension, and even at rest their muscles continue to serve as defense. Such a face can be handsome, manly, expressive – but there is little peace. Here energy does not flow – it accumulates, like water behind a dam, and either erupts in bursts of irritation, or transforms into internal fatigue. Such people often live with a sense that “everything must be done through effort.” Their will is not soft, but clenched. They are strong – but tired from strength.

A very different impression is given by faces with energy leakage. Here the lower part seems to “drift”: the chin loses clarity, the lips relax, the jaw softens or droops slightly. The gaze may be lively, the face may smile, but still you sense: there is no support inside. Energy does not stay, does not condense into intention, does not turn into decision. These are often the faces of those who are tired not of fighting, but simply of being. Maybe they have gone through a hard period, or from the start lacked habit of inner discipline. They may be kind, creative, sensitive – but weakly grounded. They dream, but don’t act. They feel, but don’t direct. They find it difficult to say “no” – not from weakness, but because there is no cohesion in the lower part of the “energetic body.” Their jaw is like a sapling root: there is potential, but no grounding in the earth.

Psycho-energy of the lower face is not so much about form as about inner tone, about the deep “yes” or “no” to the world. It is the silence in which you can hear – is a person collected or scattered, tense or mobilized, living within themselves or fleeing from themselves. You can learn to see this – not with your eyes, but with attention. Not to judge, but to understand. For the form of the face may change: with time, with pain, with love. But its “psycho-energetic trace” is a reflection of what we do with ourselves each day. And herein lies our choice. Not only anatomical, but spiritual. The lower face is the energetic equivalent of one’s actions and boundaries of personality. Here lives what we are ready to put into the world. It is a kind of accumulator of will, determination, motivation.

How to work with the lower part of the face: 3 practical approaches

Mindfulness.

Pause by the mirror. Observe how you hold your mouth and jaw when you are with no one else. Tension is a signal. And it can be released.

Face fitness and self-massage.

Relaxation of the chewing muscles, work with the orbicularis oris muscle of the mouth – removes suppressed emotions, improves speech, even influences self-esteem.

Emotional hygiene.

Every day reserve 5 minutes for an “emotional exhale” – express what you have been holding back. Write it, say it out loud, draw it, scream – but free the lower part of the face from locked-in words.

The lower face is our emotional foundation and vector of action. By it you can discern who lives inside: a free person or a controller, a warrior or a weary protector, a creator or a critic.

Lips – the language of feeling.

Jaw – the language of will.

And together – our inner voice, reflected in anatomy.

Learning to hear this voice means starting to understand not only others, but ourselves, at a depth accessible only to attentive gaze.

A brief summary. It must be emphasized that the mouth, lips and jaw are not just anatomical forms, but living projections of character, will, and emotional strategy. Lips reveal habitual ways of feeling and expressing emotions, the mouth – the boundary between inner and outer world, and the jaw – the internal lever of action, tension or resistance. Together they form the energetic signature of personality – how a person holds themselves, expresses desire, defends boundaries, and copes with pressure.

Chapter 4. Nose, Ears, Eyebrows – Secondary Signals

When we look at a person, our attention instinctively clings to the eyes and mouth – to what moves, shines, reacts vividly. These are the so-called primary signal zones of the face. They are read first, and often, the first impression is based on them. But against this “loud” background, it’s easy to miss the details – those very secondary signals that are, in fact, the subtle architecture of character. They don’t speak loudly, directly, or bluntly – but they speak honestly, precisely, and deeply. If you learn to hear them, they will reveal more than any words ever could. The nose, ears, and eyebrows – may seem like the periphery. But it is often the periphery that gives away the essence. These are elements that are not easily changed: they are less subject to mimicry, less involved in the social mask, and remain in place even when the rest of the face is pretending. In them is encrypted a person’s structure, their response type, tendencies, hidden beliefs – and even how they perceive the world and themselves.

The Nose – is the vector of the “Self”

It is the vertical, the axis. The nose tells us how a person holds themselves: how they express their desires, how confident they are in their right to be, to take, to demand, to protect.

An angular nose may indicate assertiveness, a willful character, a drive for control.

A soft nose – empathy, flexibility, and a tendency toward compromise.

An overly small or retracted nose may suggest issues with self-assertion, low self-esteem, or a passive life stance.

The Ears – are the attitude toward the world

They are like radars: listening, receiving, filtering. The auricle, its shape, how close it lies to the head or sticks out, the size of the lobes – all of this speaks to the way a person perceives their environment, their level of adaptability, discipline, emotional background, and even attitude toward authority. In physiognomy, ears are often viewed as markers of past experience and ancestral legacy: they show whether a person follows familiar patterns or forges their own path.

The Eyebrows – are boundaries

They are like gates, a frame through which we meet the gaze of another. Eyebrows are a zone of self-protection, reaction, judgment. Their line, density, shape, and angle are key to understanding how a person controls emotions, how observant, hot-tempered, rational, or intuitive they are. From the eyebrows, one can read reaction speed, level of self-control, strength of character, and the tendency toward conflict or reconciliation. In this chapter, we will uncover the art of seeing secondary yet revealing details. We’ll explore how the nose can be a marker of will, the ears – an indicator of inner discipline, and the eyebrows – a chronicle of emotional choices. And most importantly, we will learn to piece these elements together into a single mosaic of personality – to read not only expressions, but also the tuning of the soul; not only mimicry, but the structure of the inner world. Because sometimes, the most important thing is not what shouts – but what quietly exists.

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