Thai Body Language - Saying it with the Eyebrows
Body language is probably more important in Thailand than it is in the West. Without expressing words, much can be conveyed in the type of smile a Thai person gives or the level of the wai when meeting somebody for the first time.
One common form of non-verbal communication is known in Thai as yak kiu. This is a gesture of confirmation or agreement which involves raising the eyebrows up and down (yak = move up and down; kiu = eyebrows). For example, if two friends are talking and one suggests to the other that they should go to the cinema to watch a movie, the other friend may yak kiu. The wiggly eyebrows are often accompanied with a slight smile which makes it even more endearing. As a non-Thai there’s no need to start practicing your yak kiu skills. A simple ‘yes’ or ‘OK’ will serve a similar purpose, but at least you’ll know what the deal is with the wiggly eyebrows if you notice Thai people doing it.
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