_______________________________________________

More from Health.com:

_______________________________________________

Take up space

Do you keep your arms close to your sides or folded in front of you? This makes your body more compact, which sends out the signal that you're not only closed but subordinate. "When you take up less space, you appear and feel less powerful, and people may treat you that way," Wood noted.

If you want to command respect, whether it's from a co-worker or a family member, take up a little more space. Remember to stand up straight and relaxed, with your feet 6 to 7 inches apart.

Hold your head up

There's a good reason why "jump for joy" is a cliché. When you feel happy and confident, your body automatically lifts up, Wood said. You may raise your head, shoulders, and/or chest, and momentarily push up on the balls of your feet. Feeling down? Hold up your head, bring your shoulders back, sit up, and smile. "It can change your mood in less than a fraction of a second," Wood said. Believe it or not, our body movements actually change our feelings.