Our brains are naturally wired to seek connection. Eye contact activates that need and helps us recognise emotional availability (Photo: iStock)
“All it took was one look”. “We couldn’t take our eyes off each other.” These phrases show how eye contact expresses affection and attraction.
Psychologist Hellen Staula says that a lingering glance can convey interest, reassurance, attraction and presence.
“When people look directly into each other’s eyes, they can read not only what is being said verbally but also the emotions behind the words,” she says.
She explains that looking someone in the eye creates a sense of genuine connection; the eyes won’t relay what the heart doesn’t mean. This is why eye contact can communicate emotions without saying a word.
