This article was originally published on worldtravelling.com and has been republished here with permission.
Body language is a method of communication when information is communicated or shared via physical behaviors instead of words. Body posture, face expressions, gestures, touch, eye movement, and use of space are great examples.
Although body language is a crucial communication component, much of it occurs subconsciously. The value of body language is evident in its capacity to facilitate communication between individuals.
Here are all the expert’s explanations of the royal family members’ body language after Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, including the Queen’s funeral.
Coming together after the passing of the Queen
After the Queen passed away on Thursday the 8th, Prince William and Kate, who are now known as the Prince and Princess of Wales, visited Windsor and addressed royal admirers who had gathered to pay their respects to the 96-year-old monarch who passed away “peacefully” in Balmoral.
cbsnewsDuring an afternoon stroll around Windsor Castle on Saturday, the Prince of Wales and Princess of Wales invited the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to join them. There was a moment of startled quiet on the grounds of the castle as William and Harry exited their cars with their wives, Kate and Meghan. Before separating to speak with well-wishers, they spent some time together gazing at the flower arrangements. They spoke to the public for over 40 minutes during which time they were showered with flowers, gifts, and hugs. The fourth royal members are standing with their hands folded in front of the body, which means they are likely to be disengaged, disinterested, or unhappy.
Kate’s open gesture
While Princes William and Harry wore black suits, the two royal ladies also chose classy black outfits. When the Princess of Wales approached a wailing youngster, the girl stopped when she got close, prompting cheers from the audience.
pinterestKate smiles and holds her arms in an open gesture showing she is feeling comfortable and maintaining eye contact – which is all ways to appear trustworthy, engaged, confident, and calm. Prince Harry missed his scheduled appearance at the WellChild awards to fly to Balmoral and join other members of Her Majesty’s immediate family, including Prince William and the future King Charles III, in hurrying to her bedside. After saying her doctors were “concerned” for her health, Buckingham Palace revealed the sad news that the royal had passed away “peacefully at Balmoral” on Thursday, September 8. The funeral for Queen Elizabeth II will be held on September 19 at 11 a.m. at Westminster Abbey, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace on Saturday.
Meghan expresses affection for her fans
A girl was spotted covering her mouth in disbelief as Meghan approached her from a portion of the throng there. They exchanged a few brief words before Meghan put her hand on the woman’s shoulder to reassure her. The young child then requested a hug, and Meghan was spotted nodding before squeezing in for the embrace.
pinterestPrince Harry and Meghan came to Windsor Castle to meet the crowds. As they exited the vehicle, she held his hand and afterward wrapped her consoling arm over her obviously distressed husband. This evening, while they both shared in the outpouring of anguish, he also wrapped his arm around his wife. The couple grieved Her Majesty’s passing alongside William and Kate, the new Prince and Princess of Wales.
Important event for the family
Body language expert Judi James says, “There are no signs of a relaxed engagement or even affection here but the fact they are lining up together and communicating again is impressive in itself.” Security wasn’t expecting both couples to be at the walkabout, and for William, it was “an essential show of unity at a terribly difficult time for the family.” The throng waved at the foursome as they conversed and pointed at various tributes.
pinterestThe new Prince of Wales took a mature stance, and Judi said, “It may have shattered a lot of ice in terms of their body language at the funeral and thereafter.” Another insider said, “All members of the family came together and supported [the King] especially because it’s such an important historical event and a highly personal one for the family,” the source continued, “And perhaps some of those scars might be healed in the process.”
All four royals appeared together
The royal fans were taken aback when On Saturday, September 10 when Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle attended a memorial service for Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle. As they marched along the gates of Windsor Castle together to celebrate Her Majesty’s legacy, the four of them were greeted by cheers.
flipboardFor the occasion brought about by Meghan Markle’s departure from the royal family, the royal couples decided to put their differences aside. William and Kate’s meeting with Harry and Meghan was their first public outing since they were last seen together on March 9, 2020, at Commonwealth Day, only weeks before the Covid lockdown. The quartet went on an emotional tour of the memorials built in honor of the late Queen. For nearly 40 minutes, they received well-wishers. On Charles’s orders, William reportedly extended the olive branch to Harry. Harry, Meghan, William, and Kate keep their head up – meaning a positive mood and crowd connection. Leaning too far forward or backward can make you look aggressive or arrogant.
Meghan and Prince William
Prince Harry’s brother is probably the person who knows him best. And it is obvious that William and Meghan understand each other well. They are friends, says Constantine. This was the first time the public saw Meghan and her future brother-in-law interacting on a personal level, and they didn’t disappoint. “They are definitely comfortable being close and in many ways, Prince William is acting as the protector,” a source said.
goodhousekeepingA couple of pictures later, despite the fact that the future Duchess opened out to Prince William, according to Constantine, there was still a physical and emotional barrier between them. Because her torso and feet are in the ready stance, Meghan is not entirely at ease at this precise moment.
Only Harry saw the Queen
Details on the most recent reunion of the great four were provided to People magazine by an insider. The crowd waved at the foursome as they conversed and pointed out various memorials, with one insider saying that security wasn’t expecting both couples to be at the walkabout and that for William it was “a crucial show of solidarity at a tremendously difficult time for the family.”
pagesixWhen it was first revealed that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were going to Balmoral to visit the Queen because of worries for her health, there was quite a response. Later reports, however, claimed that Meghan would remain in London due to yet another “change of plans,” with only Harry traveling to see the Queen. Harry’s body language suggested he needed conversation and some more tactile forms of condolence and support.
Meghan and Queen Elizabeth
Meghan was undoubtedly attempting to figure things out at her first solo royal engagement with the Queen. According to Susan Constantine, a human behavioral expert, “There was an uncertainty in her gestures. She was scuffing her feet and bending her back to make herself look smaller, which are both blatant signs that she is still figuring out where she belongs.” Despite her nervousness, Meghan still had fun, and the Queen did too.
hearstappsPatti Wood, a body language specialist remarks, “You rarely see the Queen laugh like this.” She has an “up” smile, demonstrating that she is actively engaged in this interaction with Meghan. This sincere exchange, though, seems to have taken Meghan by surprise. Similar to the Queen, she also has an upward smile expressing the freedom of movement and enthusiasm, Wood observes. “She turns her head toward the Queen, which is a mixture of deference and intimacy.”
Meghan and King Charles
You might remember that on Meghan’s wedding day, Thomas Markle’s father was unable to lead his daughter down the aisle, so Harry’s father stepped in. Even though it was a momentous historical event, Prince Charles and Meghan’s relationship also benefited from this occasion. Prince Charles typically displays relatively bland and restrained body language, according to expert Susan Constantine. But in this particular instance, he gives Meghan a smile and gives her the assurance she needs.
honey.nineThe two withdrew to their more reserved behavior at the Trooping the Color after having this private moment. With her lips pursed and cheeks elevated, Meghan has a very kind grin, and observes Constantine. True to habit, the Duchess is carefully listening to the Prince with direct eye contact and comfortable hand gestures. “She’s disguising her internal thoughts (possibly anxiousness) by keeping her emotions in control.”
Meghan and Camilla
One significant resemblance between the two Duchesses is that they both married into the royal family. Despite you may think this situation might bring them together, Constantine observes that the women seem to be going through some difficulties. She claims that Meghan felt dominated because Camilla was prominently displayed at the birthday celebration, which was her first royal engagement following the wedding. “The candlestick structure of her body, commonly known as an’S curve,’ signals unease.”
womenshealthmagIn other situations, however, things are different between the two royal ladies. According to body language expert Susan Constantine, an endearing handshake they had at a party demonstrates how at ease Meghan and Camilla are with one another when they are not working.
Airport worker comforts Charles and Harry
At Aberdeen Airport, the new King was seen having a long talk with a woman who worked there. She had already been seen comforting Prince Harry, his son. King Charles stood on the runway and had a brief conversation with her and other staff members.
pinterestHe then got on the plane that would carry him back to RAF Northolt, where he would meet Prime Minister Liz Truss after being driven there in a royal vehicle. As he set foot on English land for the first time as monarch, the King waved to the gathering that had assembled outside. The blonde employee is the same one who earlier was seen sharing a tender moment with Prince Harry. She followed him to his BA aircraft back to London, and he put his hand on her shoulder. This is a sign of positive body language, showing he is in need of comfort words and gestures.
Meghan and Kate Middleton
There is no doubt that Meghan Markle admires her new sister-in-law. However, Constantine interestingly notes that Meghan might feel a little intimidated by Kate. She claims that Meghan is demonstrating her insecurity and anxiety around Kate by caressing her hair.
harpersbazaarMeghan and Kate were virtually twins at their first formal joint engagement (blue outfits and all) on television, but their divergent responses to Prince Harry’s remarks on the family’s “healthy debates” stood out. According to Constantine, Meghan’s response “shows her unease in the scenario.” Kate, on the other hand, is lighthearted and laughs it off. She is hiding her face and closing off her body because she does not understand the concept of people knowing intimate facts about her life.
The famous kiss
When Prince Harry and Meghan Markle publicly announced their love for one another during the 2022 Invictus Games in The Hague back in April, they drove the world into a frenzy with their tender gesture. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex then shared a kiss on stage in a tender public display of affection. The couple’s feelings were understandable given how much the audience applauded them for returning to the Games after a five-year absence.
expressThroughout the wedding, Harry and Meghan were filled with excitement. They also attracted a lot of attention on their first trip to Europe as a couple after standing down as senior royal members. At one point, they nearly appeared to be crying. Since it was unexpected, the two seemed to find it difficult to contain their passions.
Harry and Meghan display PDA
It was evident that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were not scared to display PDA as soon as they made their relationship public in July 2016. And such affectionate gestures have persisted ever since Meghan officially joined the royal family. In September 2017 at the Invictus Games in Toronto, Harry and Meghan made a memorable hand-in-hand walk (it was their first public appearance!).
pinterestRoyal family members, such as Prince William and Kate Middleton seldom display PDAs, especially on official outings, thus the moment was significant to royal admirers. Except for their appearance with the Queen, those intimate moments have been on show at practically every event they have attended together. According to former royal spokesman Dickie Arbiter, “Meghan is used to being touchy-feely, and Harry is the same.”
Meghan was empathetic with Harry and William
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited the Princess and Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle this evening to greet the public and have a look at the floral tributes left for Her Majesty after her demise on Thursday at the age of 96.
pinterestJudi James, a body language specialist for The Sun, reveals that Meghan makes encouraging gestures for other people than Harry. “As is customary, Meghan and Harry are holding hands, and it is clear that Meghan is trying to assist him by clasping her hands together and touching his back. However, her support may extend beyond her husband. Her facial expression shows a display of sympathy for her brother-in-law as well as her husband when she turns her head here in the direction of William and Kate, and to William in particular.”
Putting differences aside
As they mourned the Queen together this evening, Harry and William seemed to put their differences aside. When Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton joined them at Windsor Castle, the brothers came in the same car. In front of flower tributes, Harry and William were even seen talking to one another as they paid their respects.
etcanadaAdditionally, Judi James, a body language specialist, thinks William and Harry’s actions were a “phenomenal display of solidarity” between the brothers. As a deliberate act, it suggests kinship and some bonding brought on by shared sadness, she said. The expert went on to say that these little acts can be “baby steps” in rebuilding their bond. “But William and Harry’s intensive mirroring behaviors are the most revealing body language. They frequently adopt the same attitudes and movements, suggesting that despite their differences, they still have significant unconscious links.
Meghan consoles Harry
During their visit to Windsor Castle this evening, Meghan Markle was spotted consoling Prince Harry as he became overcome with emotion. Meghan clutched Harry’s hand as they greeted the crowds of mourning. William asked Harry and Meghan to view the tributes with him that day, according to William’s official spokesperson. It is understood that he thought it was a crucial display of harmony during a trying period for the family.
pinterestBody language expert Judi James highlights one particular instance in which Meghan comforts Prince Harry as they observe the memorials to The Queen. John stated: “At one point, Harry assumes a posture that betrays a potential sense of self-doubt and grief. As if to physically support him, Meghan puts an arm over him.” “Her uplifted hand produces a precise gesture as they walk along that suggests she is also offering him verbal encouragement,” says the specialist.
King Charles III ‘showed regret’ when he mentioned Harry and Meghan
The first address delivered by King Charles III as monarch took place on Sept. 9. Prince William was officially named Prince of Wales, and Kate Middleton was named Princess of Wales. He also spoke about his love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas, saying, “I also want to express my love for Harry and Meghan.”
metroKing Charles’ speech was analyzed by body language expert Judi James, who noted some of the “emotional” moments and even the “regret” in his gestures when mentioning Prince Harry and Meghan.
Body language reveals royals’ emotions at sombre lying-in-state service for Queen
The Princess of Wales followed The Queen’s coffin from Buckingham Palace by car to Westminster Hall on the most somber day since The Queen’s death. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, were also present. Sophie’s body language suggested she was holding back tears. Meghan embraced a ‘pitch-perfect expression.’ They joined their husbands and other Royal members for the historic hall service.
dailymail“The Royal Family appeared as choreographed as flying geese for this appearance, walking in a very formal formation,” according to body language specialist Judi James.
“The gesture looked almost desperately necessary for them”
William and Harry set aside their ongoing feud again. They stood next to each other as they escorted their beloved grandmother’s coffin to the Houses of Parliament. Ms. James explained, “that the formality of the occasion was only broken for a brief moment when Prince Harry and his wife Meghan held out their arms to hold hands as they filed out of the service behind William and Kate.”
dailymailShe said: “The gesture looked almost desperately necessary for them, and they were the only couple to really acknowledge each other and fall out of formation. We saw how they currently use this hand clasp as an emotional lifeline. Meghan was using it to gently rub Harry’s hand with her thumb in a gesture of reassurance at Windsor. It was likely used as a mutual support system here as well.”
— The Queen’s Funeral —
Classic indicators of mourning
The Queen was honored with a historic state burial, and the entire world watched. The royal family and other dignitaries in attendance have been closely scrutinized for their body language because so many people are watching the ceremonies.
townandcountrymagThe male members of the royal party, notably King Charles, the Prince of Wales, and the Duke of Sussex, exhibit classic indicators of mourning, according to Sonia Beldom, a communication coach, certified NLP practitioner, CBT therapist, and executive coach. “Furrowing of the brow, and especially when the portion between our eyebrows, above the nose, exhibits evidence of strain – enlarged vertical lines,” is how she recognizes it.
Hold back their emotions
Beldom claims that the Princess of Wales and the Queen Consort’s body language has been “extremely restrained.” She goes on: “By tightening mouths, we can more easily control our facial muscles. All the female royals are composed, with slightly pursed lips – which helps hold back emotion.”
glamour“Her shoulders are horizontal, neck relaxed, her chin is slightly dipped, which is no surprise in grief, and often portrays a person considering something upsetting,” writes Beldom of the Queen Consort’s posture, calling it “lovely.”
Meghan Markle’s Tears
When pictures of Meghan Markle crying during the burial went viral on Monday, some joked that it wasn’t an actual display of mourning.
pagesixAdrianne Carter, a body language specialist, commented: “It’s impossible to discern if the tears are real tears of grief, but Meghan knows that tears would be seen and photographed.” She claimed that the American’s face in the picture lacked the kind of “real emotional expressions-activating muscular activity.” Carter said that Markle could have controlled her emotions.
Children are usually very open
Princess Anne, according to Beldom, is “very composed, upright and stoic, while showing understandable signs of grief and inward thought.”
peoplePrince George and Princess Charlotte, the Prince and Princess of Wales’ two oldest children, joined their parents. “Children are usually very open with less guarded nonverbal gestures; however, George and Charlotte are very well behaved,” says Beldom. “While taking in their surroundings, they are not being distracted by them.”
Catherine’s (Kate) expressions were the main topic of discussion
Kate Middleton, Princess, and Duchess of Cornwall, have been mourning Queen Elizabeth. They had a closer relationship than most people realize. The princess first met Queen Elizabeth in 2008, and she was awarded the Dame Grand Cross Royal Victoria Order. This rare award is given to individuals who provide special services to her.
thenewsHowever, body language analysis showed that Catherine’s expressions were the main topic of discussion. One expert said that Catherine was “gulping back her emotions, and seeing her throat muscles ache kills me.” Another expert pointed out that the princess was “crying quite often.” Another body language said that the princess was trying not to cry. “I see that look.”
World’s leaders
“On entering Westminster Abbey, President Biden and the First Lady were holding hands,” notes Beldom. “We call this a tie sign – a gesture that links two people. It’s an obvious sign of attachment, affection, and reassurance for both people.”
yahooAlso, there was Justin Trudeau, the prime minister of Canada, who, according to Beldom, “displayed classic, confident statesman body language – relaxed, upright, chin up.” His “relaxed strolling manner, allowing his arm to swing freely, and also showing respect in gazing about, to take in and thank everyone present” are some of the traits she mentions.
Meghan Markle is ‘afraid’ of Kate Middleton
Jess, a body language specialist, Enrique Rosas, The Body Language Guy, studied the interactions between Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Kate Middleton and Prince William. He claims that Meghan appears “afraid” of Kate. There comes a time, according to Rosas, when the group begins to walk, and Meghan glances across at Kate. She appears really tight, he claims, especially around her neck. Rosas argues that because of how tense things are, it seems as though Meghan may “explode.” This can be taken as fear, anxiety, or a combination.
thesunMeghan also appeared nervous at the conclusion of the walk with Kate and William. Rosas claims that Meghan’s right hand and arm were quite tense. He continues, “Even the muscles in her forearm are twitching.”
