Gestures are all physical movements which concretely represent the ideas and thoughts of the speaker. Usually, gestures are products of inner impulses and force of the thoughts of the speaker. If is essential for a public speaker to use effective and meaningful gesture. It is the natural expression of man, thus, one must develop the use of gestures. Gestures precede vocal expression, for this reason, a speaker must be aware that the gestures are compatible to the spoken ideas.
Every speaker must give two speeches, simultaneously one with words and one with action. Gestures should be a combined movement of the whole body which are properly coordinated. Usually the size of the audience can also determine the expense of the action.
BASIC HAND GESURES
Pointing or Index
This is used to locate or identify a thing or an idea. This is done by pointing the index finger only. In public speaking such gesture is not considered impolite, provided it is used to point at something. You may point in front of you, behind, to the left or to the right whatever is deemed appropriate. Some modern authors or public speakers; however, do not advise the use of the index gestures especially when the speaker is emotional. It is considered discourteous. It is use to emphasize an idea or reinforce a verbal accusation.
Supine
This is executed by extending the arms forward palms up. This was popularized by Jesus Christ Himself. In all his public appearances he used it to mean "welcome". Popes were seen using the same gesture. It can be used by one hand at a time or by both hands together. It indicates approval or an appeal for support. It is also used in explication.
Prone
This is opposite of the supine. Hands or arms are extended forward palms down. Hitler and all German soldiers int their greetings "Heig" used it. It can be executed by one hand at a time or by both hands to mean "wait," "Keep quiet," "Take it easy," It signifies dislike, rejection or repulsion.
Cleanched or the closed fist.
This is strong and forceful gesture used by emotional speakers in political campaigns to show determination and a fighting spirit. This must be used sparingly or only at the most emphatic pars of the speech. The hands may be shaken or used to pound the table or lectern to suggest earnestness for intensity of feelings.
SOME MINOR GESTURES
Dividing
The indicates separation or distinction of a series of ideas. This also can be used to indicate something severed or cut off. This gesture is done by extending the hand with the fingers close together and making a chopping motion.
Describing or imitating
This is to describe or imitate a certain size or shape. It can also describe certain movements of things.
Approved or disapproval
This suggests assent or dissent for certain ideas and maybe done with varying degrees of vigor. Each degree of vigor in the nodding or the shaking of the head has different connotations. This is also shown in clenching the fist and with the thumb up to show approval and the thumb down to mean disapproval.
Giving and receiving.
This indicates friendly relations, exchange, presenting, giving and receiving. It is made by extending thehands with fingers slightly closed and the palms upward or toward the audience. The arms should be fully extended and not clamped as the sides.
Rejecting or restraining. (one type of the prone)
This gives the idea of stopping a particular idea suggested. This is done with the hand(s) extended forward at shoulder length, sometimes accompanied by a sweeping motion to the sides with the palm(s) facing down. Or merely having a stopping, motions in front.
EXECUTIONS OF GESTURES: (QUALITIES OF GESTURES)
Preparation
This is ability of the speaker to prepare his hand or hands at his side ready to strike a particular gesture needed for an idea.
Stroke
The time when the prepared hand makes the gesture simultaneously with the idea conveyed. There must be oneness of thought and action. This is executed with grace and meaning.
Return
This is the ability of the speaker to return his hands to his side after executing one kind of gesture. He must never forget to leave the hand up in the air or hanging without any use for it.
Exaggeration
A speaker is allowed to exaggerate his gestures when the audience is big. The last person at the theater or auditorium must see the gestures. If he is using the index gesture, he has to bring his hand up to be seen by everyone.
