The Power Pose

What is the power pose?

As our emotions and behaviors are intricately connected, certain hormones like testosterone and cortisol play a major role in the confidence we can exude. With a higher level of testosterone and lower level of cortisol (our stress hormone), this will translate to less reactivity to stress and pressure.

Nonverbal cues can speak more to a person's confidence than verbal cues, and certain body positions can be powerful!

A high power "open" pose is essentially a wonder woman pose with our chest proud and our hands on our hips. Even for a minute or two before you start your day, the benefits of adopting this pose are countless. Incorporating a breathing exercise while holding this pose can upregulate our rest and digest nervous system, and relax some of our central organs.

That said, it is pretty clear that confidence is bi-directional that involves both your mind and body. Yes- your personality and your emotional state will impact your confidence levels, but assuming better body language, taking up space, and expanding your physical presence can play an important role as well. Most importantly, you now have another tool in your toolbox to use whenever you need it. If you’re feeling stressed a few minutes before your next presentation, interview, or meeting — take a moment to adjust your posture and stand in a powerful position. Put your hands on your hips, keep your chin up, and your chest out. Doing this for just two minutes will raise your testosterone and increase your confidence, while also decreasing your cortisol and improving your ability to handle stress. Your behaviors and emotions are firmly tied. The most powerful leaders don’t merely think a certain way, they carry themselves a certain way.