By: Alyson Murphy

Body language is a fundamental part of courtship. In fact, 80 percent of what we say is nonverbal. If you would like to attract a mate or convince your significant other that you really care this Valentine’s Day, we recommend you try the following top 10 flirting signals.

Smile. It makes you look pretty. Remember that a genuine smile engages the eye muscles and people who grin for more then five seconds and only use their lips are probably faking it.

Make eye contact. But don’t stare. A woman needs to deliver a flirty quick gaze, on average, three times before the average man realizes what’s happening.

Preening. This includes fixing our hair or adjusting clothing. It is usually the first display we use when we find someone attractive.

Touch. To brush someone’s shoulder or a light touch on the arm creates a momentary bond that is more powerful then most people realize.

Listen. Nodding or a slight tilt in the head can show interest.

Uncross arms and legs. Crossing arms and legs subconsciously gives off the vibe that we are not open to or disinterested in what the person is saying.

Show palms. Open palms are associated with truth, honesty, allegiance and submission.

Avoid fidgeting. The farther away from the brain a body part is positioned, the less awareness we have of what it is doing. Frequent tapping of the foot in the direction of the door could give off the impression one is anxious to leave. Fidgeting with jewelry or clothing signals discomfort or anxiety.

Expose wrists and neck. An interested woman will gradually expose the smooth, soft underside skin of her wrists to the potential male partner and will increase the rate she flashes her wrists as her interest grows.

Protruding thumbs.  A man will use protruding thumbs, in front or back pockets, around woman to whom he is attracted.