Drawing the lip between the teeth, a self soothing act linked to worry or restraint.
Holding back an objection a person bites gently on the lower lip and stays quiet. The small act seems to trap the words, holding in a thought that is pressing to get out.
Read it as anxiety, hesitation or the effort to suppress something the person wishes to say. It often appears in the gap between wanting to speak and deciding to stay silent.
Dry lips and habit also cause biting, so look for it alongside other signs of tension. For some it is a settled habit that carries no feeling at all.
A reddening of the face caused by a rush of blood, usually beyond conscious control.
ExploreA widening of the pupils that can accompany interest, attraction or heightened arousal.
ExploreRed patches that appear on the neck and chest under stress or strong emotion.
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