Question: What are some disrespectful sitting positions in Japan and the Middle East?

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice
 The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Showing the soles of your shoes or feet can offend people in parts of the Middle East and India. That is why throwing shoes at someone is a form of protest and an insult in many parts of the world - as former U.S. President George W. Bush famously discovered on a visit to Iraq in 2008. Silence
Though it can feel like a void in communication, silence can be very meaningful in different cultural contexts. Western cultures, especially North America and the UK, tend to view silence as problematic. In our interactions at work, school, or with friends, silence is uncomfortable.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice

The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Showing the soles of your shoes or feet can offend people in parts of the Middle East and India. That is why throwing shoes at someone is a form of protest and an insult in many parts of the world - as former U.S. President George W. Bush famously discovered on a visit to Iraq in 2008. Silence
Though it can feel like a void in communication, silence can be very meaningful in different cultural contexts. Western cultures, especially North America and the UK, tend to view silence as problematic. In our interactions at work, school, or with friends, silence is uncomfortable.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice
 High Contact cultures tend to stand close when speaking and make physical contact more often. Latin America, Southern Europe and most Middle Eastern nations are examples. Medium Contact cultures stand quite close when speaking and will touch on occasion. Such cultures include Northern Europe and North America. Low Contact cultures stand at a greater distance and generally avoid physical contact. The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you.

High Contact cultures tend to stand close when speaking and make physical contact more often. Latin America, Southern Europe and most Middle Eastern nations are examples. Medium Contact cultures stand quite close when speaking and will touch on occasion. Such cultures include Northern Europe and North America. Low Contact cultures stand at a greater distance and generally avoid physical contact. The Far East is an example. These rules are usually quite complex. They may differ depending on the age, gender, ethnicity, profession and status of the people involved. Sitting positions
Be aware of your posture when you attend meetings or are dining. Sitting cross-legged is seen as disrespectful in Japan, especially in the presence of someone older or more respected than you.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect. It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6.

Step Feed

8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"

2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect. It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards. In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia

Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References

Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards. In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 While exposure to foreigners have made many of these acceptable in most places, depending on where you visit, they can still carry the offensive meaning. Future travelers, take notes. 1. The Thumbs Up
While you might be thinking thumbs up shows approval, real life is not like Facebook. In parts of the Arab world, the gesture is considered highly offensive, its impact is equivalent to the middle-finger in the West. 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect.

Step Feed

While exposure to foreigners have made many of these acceptable in most places, depending on where you visit, they can still carry the offensive meaning. Future travelers, take notes. 1. The Thumbs Up
While you might be thinking thumbs up shows approval, real life is not like Facebook. In parts of the Arab world, the gesture is considered highly offensive, its impact is equivalent to the middle-finger in the West. 2. Pointing with the index finger
Even if you don't mean anything negative by it, pointing at someone or something with only one finger is considered very rude and impolite in parts of the Middle East. Many people interpret it as if you're singling them out or making fun of them. 3. Crossing legs
Crossing your legs in parts of the Middle East, especially if you're sitting opposite from someone who is older than you, is considered a sign of disrespect.

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life. Doing business revolves much more around personal relationships, family ties, trust, and honor. There is a tendency to prioritize personal matters above all else. It is therefore crucial that business relationships are built on mutual friendship and trust. According to the manners instructor Tami Lancut Leibovitz it might be common for an Israeli to ask others some personal questions about money or children. See also
Etiquette
Taarof
References
^ Firmage, Edwin Brown and Weiss, Bernard G. and Welch, John W. Religion and Law.

In Iran, the " thumbs up " gesture is considered an offensive insult. Displaying the sole of one's foot or touching somebody with one's shoe is often considered rude. This includes sitting with one's feet or foot elevated. In some circumstances, shoes should be removed before entering a living room. Many in the Middle East do not separate professional and personal life. Doing business revolves much more around personal relationships, family ties, trust, and honor. There is a tendency to prioritize personal matters above all else. It is therefore crucial that business relationships are built on mutual friendship and trust. According to the manners instructor Tami Lancut Leibovitz it might be common for an Israeli to ask others some personal questions about money or children. See also
Etiquette
Taarof
References
^ Firmage, Edwin Brown and Weiss, Bernard G. and Welch, John W. Religion and Law.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 Greeting someone with your left hand
Greeting someone in the Middle East with the left hand is considered highly offensive by many, as is giving them something with the left hand and eating with the left hand. It is commonly believed that the left hand is unclean and devilish. 7. Checking your watch
Looking at your watch while talking to someone in some of the Arab World, even if it's a casual or short conversation, is considered rude and disrespectful as it can be interpreted to mean you don't want to be having this conversation. 8. The "OK"
Photo source: Wikimedia Commons
The sign is considered very insulting in Turkey and in some other Middle Eastern countries – such as Kuwait – where it denotes the evil eye.

Step Feed

Greeting someone with your left hand
Greeting someone in the Middle East with the left hand is considered highly offensive by many, as is giving them something with the left hand and eating with the left hand. It is commonly believed that the left hand is unclean and devilish. 7. Checking your watch
Looking at your watch while talking to someone in some of the Arab World, even if it's a casual or short conversation, is considered rude and disrespectful as it can be interpreted to mean you don't want to be having this conversation. 8. The "OK"
Photo source: Wikimedia Commons
The sign is considered very insulting in Turkey and in some other Middle Eastern countries – such as Kuwait – where it denotes the evil eye.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links

The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said
 Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point. Even if indicating an inanimate object, Japanese people use the open hand as if leading the way toward it. The open hand gesture should be done gently so it doesn’t feel like you’re jabbing at someone. Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Japanese hand gestures can cause a bit of confusion. Perhaps the most common one is the ‘come here,’ which looks like ‘go away’ to foreign folk. You let your wrist go limp and flap your fingers at the person.

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift

Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said

Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point. Even if indicating an inanimate object, Japanese people use the open hand as if leading the way toward it. The open hand gesture should be done gently so it doesn’t feel like you’re jabbing at someone. Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Japanese hand gestures can cause a bit of confusion. Perhaps the most common one is the ‘come here,’ which looks like ‘go away’ to foreign folk. You let your wrist go limp and flap your fingers at the person.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table. Eating in a reclining position was favored by the Ancient Greeks at a celebration they called a symposium, and this custom was adopted by the Ancient Romans. Ancient Hebrews also adopted this posture for traditional celebrations of Passover. Heat escape lessening position
Main article: Heat escape lessening position
The heat escape lessening position (HELP) is a way to position oneself to reduce heat loss in cold water. It is taught as part of the curriculum in Australia, North America and Ireland for lifeguard and boating safety training.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links

Japanese body language and gestures - Lingualift Japanese body language and gestures
Japanese body language and gestures
The basics of not offending or frightening people
Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
Looking at your shoes
Saying what’s not said
 If you look someone in the eye, they look away. Direct eye contact is considered rude or intrusive. It’s alright to make brief eye contact, but for the bulk of the conversation you should look somewhere else. If you’re a person dumbfounded by the standoffishness of the Japanese you meet, it could be because they think you’re staring them down. Posture is extremely important. Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point.

If you look someone in the eye, they look away. Direct eye contact is considered rude or intrusive. It’s alright to make brief eye contact, but for the bulk of the conversation you should look somewhere else. If you’re a person dumbfounded by the standoffishness of the Japanese you meet, it could be because they think you’re staring them down. Posture is extremely important. Good posture tells the other person that you’re respectful and attentive. It’s bad to sit slumped over like a teenager at McDonalds and people don’t usually lean casually against walls. Sitting with arms or legs outspread is a serious sin in Japan – you’re taking up space. This causes irritation but it’s also a sign of confidence, which many Japanese interpret as over-confidence or arrogance. Don’t point.

Non Verbal Communication Non-Verbal Commuication Modes
Cultural Differences in Non-verbal Communication More than 700,000 possible motions we can make — so impossible to categorize them all! But just need to be aware the body movement and position is a key ingredient in sending messages. Posture
Consider the following actions and note cultural differences: Bowing (not done, criticized, or affected in US; shows rank in Japan)
Slouching (rude in most Northern European areas)
Hands in pocket (disrespectful in Turkey)
Sitting with legs crossed (offensive in Ghana, Turkey)
Showing soles of feet. ( Offensive in Thailand, Saudi Arabia)
Even in US, there is a gender difference on acceptable posture? Gestures
Impossible to catalog them all. But need to recognize: 1) incredible possibility and variety and 2) that an acceptable in one’s own culture may be offensive in another. In addition, amount of gesturing varies from culture to culture.

Non Verbal Communication

Non-Verbal Commuication Modes
Cultural Differences in Non-verbal Communication

More than 700,000 possible motions we can make — so impossible to categorize them all! But just need to be aware the body movement and position is a key ingredient in sending messages. Posture
Consider the following actions and note cultural differences: Bowing (not done, criticized, or affected in US; shows rank in Japan)
Slouching (rude in most Northern European areas)
Hands in pocket (disrespectful in Turkey)
Sitting with legs crossed (offensive in Ghana, Turkey)
Showing soles of feet. ( Offensive in Thailand, Saudi Arabia)
Even in US, there is a gender difference on acceptable posture? Gestures
Impossible to catalog them all. But need to recognize: 1) incredible possibility and variety and 2) that an acceptable in one’s own culture may be offensive in another. In addition, amount of gesturing varies from culture to culture.

Step Feed 8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
8 normal signs and gestures that can be offensive in the Middle East
1. The Thumbs Up
2. Pointing with the index finger
3. Crossing legs
4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
5.The Moutza (Open palm)
6. Greeting someone with your left hand
7. Checking your watch
8. The "OK"
 It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6. Greeting someone with your left hand
Greeting someone in the Middle East with the left hand is considered highly offensive by many, as is giving them something with the left hand and eating with the left hand. It is commonly believed that the left hand is unclean and devilish. 7. Checking your watch
Looking at your watch while talking to someone in some of the Arab World, even if it's a casual or short conversation, is considered rude and disrespectful as it can be interpreted to mean you don't want to be having this conversation. 8.

Step Feed

It can be interpreted as a sign of arrogance and defiance when done in front of people who hold a higher social or professional position such as parents and superiors. 4. The Fig (Forming a fist with the thumb tucked under the index finger)
While this is used in playing the "got your nose" game with children, it is considered very offensive in Turkey as it's also the equivalent of the middle-finger. 5.The Moutza (Open palm)
Displaying your open palm in front of someone's face is highly offensive in parts of the Middle East, the gesture is believed to have originated during Byzantine times when it was used to shame criminals. 6. Greeting someone with your left hand
Greeting someone in the Middle East with the left hand is considered highly offensive by many, as is giving them something with the left hand and eating with the left hand. It is commonly believed that the left hand is unclean and devilish. 7. Checking your watch
Looking at your watch while talking to someone in some of the Arab World, even if it's a casual or short conversation, is considered rude and disrespectful as it can be interpreted to mean you don't want to be having this conversation. 8.

Kneeling - Wikipedia Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links
 This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events. Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground.

Kneeling - Wikipedia

Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links

This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events. Many of the culturally significant and traditional events in Japanese society involve sitting positions such as funerals or tea parties. This form of sitting however is uncomfortable to those who have not practiced it for a long time; therefore people in Japan usually start practicing this posture at quite a young age. China
In China, there is a form of prostration involving kneeling called Kowtow. Kowtow is where the participant kneels down then subsequently bows on the ground so that their forehead touches the ground.

Kneeling - Wikipedia Kneeling
Kneeling
Contents
Religion
Judaism and Islam
Christianity
Marriage
Proposals
Catholic Wedding Ceremonies
Kneeling in Sexual Intercourse
BDSM
Kneeling in Different Cultural Societies
East Asia
Japan
China
Kneeling in Ancient China
Genderization of Kneeling in Greek Ritual
Prehistoric Ecuador
Ethnicity and Kinetic Implications of Kneeling-related Postures
Monarchs
European Knights in the Middle Ages and Now
Interacting with Royalty
See also
References
External links
 This is different from western culture and other religions since these daily rituals are not necessarily tied to their religion but instead more to their society and culture. Japan
Two forms of kneeling or prostration in Japanese culture, Dogeza, and Seiza . Dogeza is a traditional form of respectful bowing to acknowledge superiors. This practice is two steps kneeling down onto the ground, then bending over to touch the head to the ground. It can also be to express apology or attempt to bless someone with your good favor. This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events.

Kneeling - Wikipedia

This is different from western culture and other religions since these daily rituals are not necessarily tied to their religion but instead more to their society and culture. Japan
Two forms of kneeling or prostration in Japanese culture, Dogeza, and Seiza . Dogeza is a traditional form of respectful bowing to acknowledge superiors. This practice is two steps kneeling down onto the ground, then bending over to touch the head to the ground. It can also be to express apology or attempt to bless someone with your good favor. This practice is mainly a form of formal and deeply emotional apology to someone of a higher rank than you within society. This is more of an older form of reverence, though, that has fallen out of practice. Seiza is another Japanese kneeling position that refers to the traditional way of sitting down in Japan. This is a formal way of sitting down which was adopted by Japan after the Edo period. Since then, it has now become the traditional way of sitting down within the household and for certain cultural events.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Main article: List of asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

 Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor. When standing, give the other person room. Standing too close to someone else is inappropriate. Control Emotions
The Japanese consider showing emotions as a burden to the other person. They typically maintain a passive expression while speaking. A negative emotion may only get expressed with a tilt of the head or a quick inhalation.

Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor. When standing, give the other person room. Standing too close to someone else is inappropriate. Control Emotions
The Japanese consider showing emotions as a burden to the other person. They typically maintain a passive expression while speaking. A negative emotion may only get expressed with a tilt of the head or a quick inhalation.

List of human positions - Wikipedia List of human positions
List of human positions
Contents
Basic positions
All-fours
Kneeling
Lying
Sitting
Squatting or crouching
Standing
Contexts
Asanas
Atypical positions
Bondage positions
Childbirth positions
Dance positions
Defecation positions
Eating positions
Heat escape lessening position
Medical positions
Microgravity
Recovery position
Resting positions
Riding positions
Sex positions
Shooting positions
Sleeping positions
Stress positions
Submissive positions
Urination positions
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Dance positions
Classical ballet position
Main article: Dance positions
Dance position is a position of a dancer or a mutual position of a dance couple assumed during a dance. Describing and mastering proper dance positions is an important part of dance technique. Defecation positions
Main article: Defecation positions
The two most common defecation positions are squatting and sitting. The squatting posture is used for Japanese, in countries with a Muslim or Hindu majority and in the absence of toilets or other devices. The sitting defecation posture is used in Western toilets, with a lean-forward posture or a 90-degrees posture. Eating positions
Main article: Eating
People sharing a meal in Uzbekistan
Eating positions vary according to the different regions of the world, as culture influences the way people eat their meals. For example, most of the Middle Eastern countries, eating while sitting on the floor is most common, and it is believed to be healthier than eating while sitting to a table.

List of human positions - Wikipedia

Sitting - Wikipedia Sitting
Sitting
Contents
Prevalence
Positions
On the floor
On a raised seat
Yoga, traditions and spirituality
Kneeling chairs
Health risks
Relationship between posture and health conditions
Sedentary Behaviour
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 They can also dangle if the seat is sufficiently high. Legs can be kept right to the front of the body, spread apart, or one crossed over the other. The upper body can be held upright, recline to either side or backward, or one can lean forward. Yoga, traditions and spirituality
The Japanese tea ceremony is performed sitting in seiza. There are many seated positions in various traditions and rituals. Four examples are: 正座 (zhengzuo) is a Chinese word which describes the traditional formal way of sitting in Ancient China. A related position is 跪座, which differs in the tops of the feet being raised off the ground. Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) is a yoga posture ( asana) similar to seiza. The lotus position involves resting each foot on the opposite thigh so that the soles of the feet face upwards.

Sitting - Wikipedia

Sitting
Sitting
Contents
Prevalence
Positions
On the floor
On a raised seat
Yoga, traditions and spirituality
Kneeling chairs
Health risks
Relationship between posture and health conditions
Sedentary Behaviour
See also
References
Further reading
External links

They can also dangle if the seat is sufficiently high. Legs can be kept right to the front of the body, spread apart, or one crossed over the other. The upper body can be held upright, recline to either side or backward, or one can lean forward. Yoga, traditions and spirituality
The Japanese tea ceremony is performed sitting in seiza. There are many seated positions in various traditions and rituals. Four examples are: 正座 (zhengzuo) is a Chinese word which describes the traditional formal way of sitting in Ancient China. A related position is 跪座, which differs in the tops of the feet being raised off the ground. Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) is a yoga posture ( asana) similar to seiza. The lotus position involves resting each foot on the opposite thigh so that the soles of the feet face upwards.

Japanese sitting techniques and rules Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip
 Japanese sitting techniques and rules
Learn
›
Etiquette
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Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting upright on the floor is common in many situations in Japan. For example, meals are traditionally held on a tatami floor around a low table. Sitting on the floor is also customary during the tea ceremony and other traditional events. The formal way of sitting for both genders is kneeling ( seiza) as shown on the picture below. People who are not used to sit in seiza-style may become uncomfortable after a few minutes. Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove.

Japanese sitting techniques and rules

Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip

Japanese sitting techniques and rules
Learn
›
Etiquette
ui-pin-hamburger
Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting upright on the floor is common in many situations in Japan. For example, meals are traditionally held on a tatami floor around a low table. Sitting on the floor is also customary during the tea ceremony and other traditional events. The formal way of sitting for both genders is kneeling ( seiza) as shown on the picture below. People who are not used to sit in seiza-style may become uncomfortable after a few minutes. Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 People's social circumstances, clothing styles, and the places where they sat naturally brought about their manners of sitting. The development, in the Muromachi period, of Japanese architecture in which the floors were completely covered with tatami (thick straw mats), combined with the strict formalities of the ruling warrior class for which this style of architecture was principally designed, heralded the adoption of the sitting posture known today as seiza as the respectful way to sit. By the middle of the Edo period, it had become a convention for samurai to sit in this manner when meeting authority figures such as the Shogun as a symbol of obedience and loyalty. However, it probably was not until around the years surrounding the turn of the 18th century (the Genroku to Kyōhō eras in Japanese history) that the Japanese generally adopted this manner of sitting in their everyday lives and during the Meiji era, it had become firmly established as the proper sitting posture, as part of the "Japanese culture and tradition" purposefully created during this time. The posture serves as the standard floor sitting posture for most traditional formal occasions, and it is generally considered the respectful way to sit in the presence of superiors or elders unless otherwise permitted. Floor
Seiza involves sitting down on the floor and not on a chair. In traditional Japanese architecture, floors in various rooms designed for comfort have tatami floors. Seiza thus is closely connected with tatami flooring. There are circumstances, however, when people sit seiza -style on carpeted and hardwood floors. In many martial arts, for instance, this sitting position generally takes place on hardwood floors.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References

Japanese sitting techniques and rules Sitting techniques and rules
Sitting techniques and rules
Seating order
Book your trip
 Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove. The host or least important person is supposed to sit next to the entrance (shimoza). community-forum
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Japanese sitting techniques and rules

Foreigners are not usually expected to be able to sit in seiza-style for a long time, and an increasing number of Japanese people themselves are not able to do so either. Formal seiza positions for women (left) and men (right)
In casual situations, men usually sit cross-legged, while women sit with both legs to one side. The former sitting style is considered exclusively male, while the latter is considered exclusively female. Casual sitting positions for women (left) and men (right)
Seating order
The most important guest sits on the honored seat (kamiza) which is located farthest from the entrance. In Japanese-style rooms with an alcove (tokonoma), the honored guest should be seated in front of the alcove, with his or her back towards the alcove. The host or least important person is supposed to sit next to the entrance (shimoza). community-forum
Questions? Ask in our forum. Book your trip
Hotels
Car
Buses
Tours
City: Tokyo Fukuoka Hakone Hiroshima Hokkaido Ise Shima Kamakura Kanazawa Kansai Airport Kyoto Mount Fuji Nagasaki Nagoya Narita Airport Nikko Niigata Okinawa Osaka Sapporo Sendai Takayama Tokyo
Check-in:

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas - Career Skills From MindTools.com Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Understanding the Impact of Cross-Cultural Differences
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Considering Cultural Differences
Tip 1:
Tip 2:
Common Cross-Cultural Mistakes
Note:
Food
Body Language and Gestures
Tip:
Clothing and Color
Personal Space
Additional Tools and Models
Key Points
 They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another. For example, a "thumbs up" gesture is seen as a sign of satisfaction in the West, but is highly offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. In the United States, a handshake demonstrates that negotiations are finished, and that everyone is leaving on good terms. In the Middle East, a handshake is a sign that serious negotiations are now beginning. In many cultures, pointing is impolite, so it's usually best to avoid it entirely. If you must gesture toward something, use your entire hand.

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas - Career Skills From MindTools.com

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Understanding the Impact of Cross-Cultural Differences
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Considering Cultural Differences
Tip 1:
Tip 2:
Common Cross-Cultural Mistakes
Note:
Food
Body Language and Gestures
Tip:
Clothing and Color
Personal Space
Additional Tools and Models
Key Points

They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another. For example, a "thumbs up" gesture is seen as a sign of satisfaction in the West, but is highly offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. In the United States, a handshake demonstrates that negotiations are finished, and that everyone is leaving on good terms. In the Middle East, a handshake is a sign that serious negotiations are now beginning. In many cultures, pointing is impolite, so it's usually best to avoid it entirely. If you must gesture toward something, use your entire hand.

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World 12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
Advertiser Disclosure ▾
Wise Bread Picks
1. The Belching Compliment — Eastern Culture
2. Spit to Say Hello — Sub-Saharan Africa
3. Don't Shake With the Left Hand — The Middle East
4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
7. You Invite, You Pay — Ghana
8. Avoid the Salt Shaker — Egypt
9. Never Fill Your Own Glass — Japan
10. Be Late, Be Polite — Venezuela
11. Avoid Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party — France
12. The "OK" Sign Is Not Okay — Germany, South America, Turkey
 Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
You may remember an incident involving former President George W. Bush and Muntadar al-Zeidi, in which the latter threw his shoe at "Dubya." For many of us, the response was one right out of Austin Powers. " Who throws a shoe, for goodness sake?" But, in Arab culture, it was a significant show of disdain. Showing someone the sole of your shoe is highly insulting, be it sitting with one foot perched on your knee, or reclining with your feet facing your host. The shoe is considered unclean, especially the sole, which is why is must be removed before entering places of worship, homes, and other buildings. 6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
Noodle dishes are popular everywhere, but how to show your enjoyment of them varies. In Western culture, we eat as silently as possible. Making any kind of noise is considered rude to those around us.

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World

12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
12 Lessons in Manners From Around the World
Advertiser Disclosure ▾
Wise Bread Picks
1. The Belching Compliment — Eastern Culture
2. Spit to Say Hello — Sub-Saharan Africa
3. Don't Shake With the Left Hand — The Middle East
4. To Tip Is to Offend — Japan
5. Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
7. You Invite, You Pay — Ghana
8. Avoid the Salt Shaker — Egypt
9. Never Fill Your Own Glass — Japan
10. Be Late, Be Polite — Venezuela
11. Avoid Bringing Wine to a Dinner Party — France
12. The "OK" Sign Is Not Okay — Germany, South America, Turkey

Never Show the Sole of Your Shoe — Arab Culture
You may remember an incident involving former President George W. Bush and Muntadar al-Zeidi, in which the latter threw his shoe at "Dubya." For many of us, the response was one right out of Austin Powers. " Who throws a shoe, for goodness sake?" But, in Arab culture, it was a significant show of disdain. Showing someone the sole of your shoe is highly insulting, be it sitting with one foot perched on your knee, or reclining with your feet facing your host. The shoe is considered unclean, especially the sole, which is why is must be removed before entering places of worship, homes, and other buildings. 6. Slurp Your Food to Express Delight — China
Noodle dishes are popular everywhere, but how to show your enjoyment of them varies. In Western culture, we eat as silently as possible. Making any kind of noise is considered rude to those around us.

 The Japanese consider long eye contact a challenge, not a show of confidence as it is in the West. Appearance
The Japanese tend toward conservative dress in business settings. Much like your appearance, our overall manner should be conservative, quiet and respectful. The Japanese believe deeply in saving “face,” that is, not embarrassing another in public. Politeness is the best course to follow. Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor.

The Japanese consider long eye contact a challenge, not a show of confidence as it is in the West. Appearance
The Japanese tend toward conservative dress in business settings. Much like your appearance, our overall manner should be conservative, quiet and respectful. The Japanese believe deeply in saving “face,” that is, not embarrassing another in public. Politeness is the best course to follow. Enjoy the Silence
The Japanese typically nod often while listening,showing they pay attention to what is said. However, there is little idle chatter. In Japan, there is no urge to fill the silence with talk, but rather to use it a time to consider what is being said. Posture
It’s considered rude to sit with legs crossed or slouched. The proper way to sit is upright with both feet on the floor.

Culture Awareness in the Workplace | Cleverism Culture Awareness in the Workplace
Culture Awareness in the Workplace
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Negotiations
Respect of power
Nonverbal communication
Openness towards the unknown
Restrain
Individualism
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Holidays & traditions
Dress code
Gender-based conduct
HOW TO CREATE AND PRESERVE CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Cultural awareness and cultural diversity policies
Direction
Clarity in communication
Sensitivity
Self-awareness
Flexibility
Diversity
Reinforcement
CONCLUSION
Share your thoughts and experience
 Let your work be the proof of your words, not the other way around. Respect of power
In Western Society equality is an important value and therefore hierarchy of power is… annoying. Flaunting your status or your title would be unbearable to lower level employees who like to think they are your equal. In other places respect towards superiors and seniors is vital. Seating arrangements. In the Western world, seating arrangements are rarely done. The number or position of your chair would have little to no significance and even if you happen to take someone’s seat it is usually taken light-heartedly. That is not the case for businesspeople from China and Japan. You have to be seated by rank – the highest in rank from your side will sit the closest to the highest in rank from the other side. Failing to respect the seating arrangement will be quite the embarrassing situation.

Culture Awareness in the Workplace | Cleverism

Culture Awareness in the Workplace
Culture Awareness in the Workplace
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Negotiations
Respect of power
Nonverbal communication
Openness towards the unknown
Restrain
Individualism
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Holidays & traditions
Dress code
Gender-based conduct
HOW TO CREATE AND PRESERVE CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Cultural awareness and cultural diversity policies
Direction
Clarity in communication
Sensitivity
Self-awareness
Flexibility
Diversity
Reinforcement
CONCLUSION
Share your thoughts and experience

Let your work be the proof of your words, not the other way around. Respect of power
In Western Society equality is an important value and therefore hierarchy of power is… annoying. Flaunting your status or your title would be unbearable to lower level employees who like to think they are your equal. In other places respect towards superiors and seniors is vital. Seating arrangements. In the Western world, seating arrangements are rarely done. The number or position of your chair would have little to no significance and even if you happen to take someone’s seat it is usually taken light-heartedly. That is not the case for businesspeople from China and Japan. You have to be seated by rank – the highest in rank from your side will sit the closest to the highest in rank from the other side. Failing to respect the seating arrangement will be quite the embarrassing situation.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Some martial arts, notably kendō, aikidō, and iaidō, may prescribe up to two fist widths of distance between the knees for men. Stepping into and out of seiza is mindfully performed. There are codified traditional methods of entering and exiting the sitting position depending on occasion and type of clothing worn. History
A woman in seiza performing a Japanese tea ceremony
Prior to the Edo period, there were no standard postures for sitting on the floor. During this time, seiza referred to "correct sitting", which took various forms such as sitting cross-legged (胡坐, agura ), sitting with one knee raised (立て膝, tatehiza ), or sitting to the side (割座, wariza ), while the posture commonly known as seiza today was called kiza . People's social circumstances, clothing styles, and the places where they sat naturally brought about their manners of sitting. The development, in the Muromachi period, of Japanese architecture in which the floors were completely covered with tatami (thick straw mats), combined with the strict formalities of the ruling warrior class for which this style of architecture was principally designed, heralded the adoption of the sitting posture known today as seiza as the respectful way to sit. By the middle of the Edo period, it had become a convention for samurai to sit in this manner when meeting authority figures such as the Shogun as a symbol of obedience and loyalty. However, it probably was not until around the years surrounding the turn of the 18th century (the Genroku to Kyōhō eras in Japanese history) that the Japanese generally adopted this manner of sitting in their everyday lives and during the Meiji era, it had become firmly established as the proper sitting posture, as part of the "Japanese culture and tradition" purposefully created during this time. The posture serves as the standard floor sitting posture for most traditional formal occasions, and it is generally considered the respectful way to sit in the presence of superiors or elders unless otherwise permitted.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Culture-Based Negotiation Styles | Beyond Intractability Culture-Based Negotiation Styles
Culture-Based Negotiation Styles
Cultural Approaches to Negotiation
Time Orientations
Space Orientations
Nonverbal Communication
Power Distance
Uncertainty Avoidance
Masculinity-Femininity
Cross-Cultural Negotiations
U.S. Approaches to Negotiation
African Approaches to Negotiation
Japanese Styles of Negotiation
European Styles of Negotiation
Latin American Styles of Negotiation
The Evolution of Negotiation
Additional Resources
 These rules change in Japan, where women are frequently seen holding hands, but not men. In the Mediterranean, it is common to see men holding hands or touching in public, but not women. Greeting rituals fit with these patterns, so awareness of local norms is important for negotiators. Space also relates to comfort with eye contact and attributions related to eye contact or lack of eye contact. In United States and Canadian dominant culture settings as well as many Arab cultures, eye contact is taken as a sign of reliability and trustworthiness. In North American indigenous settings, eye contact may be seen as disrespectful and inappropriate. Similarly, in Asian settings, looking down is usually interpreted as a sign of respect. Beyond these generalizations is a great deal of complexity. Lederach observes, for example, that in Central America, a slight movement of the eyes may indicate embarrassment, showing respect, or disagreement." [ 5]
Seating arrangements for negotiations should take norms for space into account.

Culture-Based Negotiation Styles | Beyond Intractability

Culture-Based Negotiation Styles
Culture-Based Negotiation Styles
Cultural Approaches to Negotiation
Time Orientations
Space Orientations
Nonverbal Communication
Power Distance
Uncertainty Avoidance
Masculinity-Femininity
Cross-Cultural Negotiations
U.S. Approaches to Negotiation
African Approaches to Negotiation
Japanese Styles of Negotiation
European Styles of Negotiation
Latin American Styles of Negotiation
The Evolution of Negotiation
Additional Resources

These rules change in Japan, where women are frequently seen holding hands, but not men. In the Mediterranean, it is common to see men holding hands or touching in public, but not women. Greeting rituals fit with these patterns, so awareness of local norms is important for negotiators. Space also relates to comfort with eye contact and attributions related to eye contact or lack of eye contact. In United States and Canadian dominant culture settings as well as many Arab cultures, eye contact is taken as a sign of reliability and trustworthiness. In North American indigenous settings, eye contact may be seen as disrespectful and inappropriate. Similarly, in Asian settings, looking down is usually interpreted as a sign of respect. Beyond these generalizations is a great deal of complexity. Lederach observes, for example, that in Central America, a slight movement of the eyes may indicate embarrassment, showing respect, or disagreement." [ 5]
Seating arrangements for negotiations should take norms for space into account.

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures | TheTalko 13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Tipping
12 Whistling
11 Laughing With Your Mouth Open
10 Being On Time
9 Sitting In The Backseat Of A Cab
8 Changing Your Meal
7 Using Your Left Hand
6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
5 Crossing Your Fingers
4 Wearing Your Shoes Inside
3 Blowing Your Nose
2 Getting Excited About Presents
1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
 if you sit in the back you're emphasizing the fact that this person is separate from you. It's interesting because they are providing a service, and in the U.S. it would actually feel pretty awkward to ride up front in the taxi driver's space. If you're in Rwanda or Japan, you better not try to eat in that cab either, as in those countries it's considered rude to eat in a place that food isn't served. 8 Changing Your Meal
Many countries take their dining experiences quite seriously. This means that you should respect the exact version of the food that was served to you and not alter it in any way. France, Italy, Japan, and Spain all take this pretty seriously, so accept your meal as is so as not to insult anyone. You might not even want to request condiments if there are none at the table. You also should be careful about finishing your entire meal if you're in China, Thailand, Russia, or the Philippines, as this is taken as an insult that not enough food was provided. 7 Using Your Left Hand
That's right: in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East you might insult someone by doing pretty much anything with your left hand.

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures | TheTalko

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Tipping
12 Whistling
11 Laughing With Your Mouth Open
10 Being On Time
9 Sitting In The Backseat Of A Cab
8 Changing Your Meal
7 Using Your Left Hand
6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
5 Crossing Your Fingers
4 Wearing Your Shoes Inside
3 Blowing Your Nose
2 Getting Excited About Presents
1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets

if you sit in the back you're emphasizing the fact that this person is separate from you. It's interesting because they are providing a service, and in the U.S. it would actually feel pretty awkward to ride up front in the taxi driver's space. If you're in Rwanda or Japan, you better not try to eat in that cab either, as in those countries it's considered rude to eat in a place that food isn't served. 8 Changing Your Meal
Many countries take their dining experiences quite seriously. This means that you should respect the exact version of the food that was served to you and not alter it in any way. France, Italy, Japan, and Spain all take this pretty seriously, so accept your meal as is so as not to insult anyone. You might not even want to request condiments if there are none at the table. You also should be careful about finishing your entire meal if you're in China, Thailand, Russia, or the Philippines, as this is taken as an insult that not enough food was provided. 7 Using Your Left Hand
That's right: in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East you might insult someone by doing pretty much anything with your left hand.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.) are impossible to do in skirts or certain types of women's traditional clothing (such as the premodern kimono) without risk of exposure, so an alternative informal sitting posture has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor, termed yokozuwari (横座り, literally "sideways sitting"). Wariza
Another informal sitting posture for women is called wariza (割座, literally "separate or split sitting", "w-sitting" or "reverse tailor style sitting" in English) which resembles seiza posture, whereby the buttocks are on the floor and the lower legs are bent off to their respective sides. Kiza
This iaido practitioner is executing a cut directly from kiza
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座 / 跪坐). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.) are impossible to do in skirts or certain types of women's traditional clothing (such as the premodern kimono) without risk of exposure, so an alternative informal sitting posture has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor, termed yokozuwari (横座り, literally "sideways sitting"). Wariza
Another informal sitting posture for women is called wariza (割座, literally "separate or split sitting", "w-sitting" or "reverse tailor style sitting" in English) which resembles seiza posture, whereby the buttocks are on the floor and the lower legs are bent off to their respective sides. Kiza
This iaido practitioner is executing a cut directly from kiza
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座 / 跪坐). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position.

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
 9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper, and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business Insider In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows.

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs up
4. Laughing with your mouth open

9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper, and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business Insider In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows.

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures | TheTalko 13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Tipping
12 Whistling
11 Laughing With Your Mouth Open
10 Being On Time
9 Sitting In The Backseat Of A Cab
8 Changing Your Meal
7 Using Your Left Hand
6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
5 Crossing Your Fingers
4 Wearing Your Shoes Inside
3 Blowing Your Nose
2 Getting Excited About Presents
1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
 Don't think about going public with your tissues in China, France, Japan, Turkey, or Saudi Arabia. Perhaps it feels a little too close for comfort. After all, in places like China, Korea, Thailand, and the Middle East, it can be offensive even to touch or hug someone depending on the circumstance. 2 Getting Excited About Presents
If you're lucky enough to receive a gift from someone in China or India, you shouldn't open it immediately in their company. It's considered greedy and poor form to do it while the gift giver is still around. If you're offered a gift in Japan or China, you might actually want to consider declining the gift a few times. In those places, they expect you to refuse the gift a few times before accepting even though they will continue to offer. It's very different than here where we quickly accept invites, gifts, etc. without thinking about what we're returning to the gift giver. 1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
In America, where you put your hands when talking to someone doesn't matter or mean anything at all.

Don't think about going public with your tissues in China, France, Japan, Turkey, or Saudi Arabia. Perhaps it feels a little too close for comfort. After all, in places like China, Korea, Thailand, and the Middle East, it can be offensive even to touch or hug someone depending on the circumstance. 2 Getting Excited About Presents
If you're lucky enough to receive a gift from someone in China or India, you shouldn't open it immediately in their company. It's considered greedy and poor form to do it while the gift giver is still around. If you're offered a gift in Japan or China, you might actually want to consider declining the gift a few times. In those places, they expect you to refuse the gift a few times before accepting even though they will continue to offer. It's very different than here where we quickly accept invites, gifts, etc. without thinking about what we're returning to the gift giver. 1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
In America, where you put your hands when talking to someone doesn't matter or mean anything at all.

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures | TheTalko 13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Tipping
12 Whistling
11 Laughing With Your Mouth Open
10 Being On Time
9 Sitting In The Backseat Of A Cab
8 Changing Your Meal
7 Using Your Left Hand
6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
5 Crossing Your Fingers
4 Wearing Your Shoes Inside
3 Blowing Your Nose
2 Getting Excited About Presents
1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
 France, Italy, Japan, and Spain all take this pretty seriously, so accept your meal as is so as not to insult anyone. You might not even want to request condiments if there are none at the table. You also should be careful about finishing your entire meal if you're in China, Thailand, Russia, or the Philippines, as this is taken as an insult that not enough food was provided. 7 Using Your Left Hand
That's right: in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East you might insult someone by doing pretty much anything with your left hand. There are a lot of theories out there about why this is the case, depending on who you ask. Some say that certain cultures view the left hand as evil and so using it is a real slap in the face to people around you. In many places the left hand is reserved for toilet duties so it is more likely that people are just trying to protect each other from a hand that might literally be unclean. Luckily, we tend to shake with our right hand anyway, so this isn't a huge adjustment to make when greeting those in other countries. 6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
In Muslim, Hindu, Arab, and Buddhist countries, it is considered rude to show the soles of your feet.

France, Italy, Japan, and Spain all take this pretty seriously, so accept your meal as is so as not to insult anyone. You might not even want to request condiments if there are none at the table. You also should be careful about finishing your entire meal if you're in China, Thailand, Russia, or the Philippines, as this is taken as an insult that not enough food was provided. 7 Using Your Left Hand
That's right: in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East you might insult someone by doing pretty much anything with your left hand. There are a lot of theories out there about why this is the case, depending on who you ask. Some say that certain cultures view the left hand as evil and so using it is a real slap in the face to people around you. In many places the left hand is reserved for toilet duties so it is more likely that people are just trying to protect each other from a hand that might literally be unclean. Luckily, we tend to shake with our right hand anyway, so this isn't a huge adjustment to make when greeting those in other countries. 6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
In Muslim, Hindu, Arab, and Buddhist countries, it is considered rude to show the soles of your feet.

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
 It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground. Men should cross their legs with caution. 14.

It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground. Men should cross their legs with caution. 14.

Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas - Career Skills From MindTools.com Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Avoiding Cross-Cultural Faux Pas
Understanding the Impact of Cross-Cultural Differences
The Importance of Cultural Awareness
Considering Cultural Differences
Tip 1:
Tip 2:
Common Cross-Cultural Mistakes
Note:
Food
Body Language and Gestures
Tip:
Clothing and Color
Personal Space
Additional Tools and Models
Key Points
 Muslims, Mormons, and Seventh Day Adventists avoid alcohol. Hindus, India's largest religious population, consider it unholy to eat beef. Most are also vegetarian. Muslims and Jews are forbidden to eat pork (and, in addition, Jews do not eat shellfish), and Roman Catholics may choose fish rather than red meat on Fridays. Body Language and Gestures
In India, Africa, and the Middle East, people always use their right hand for greeting, touching, and eating. They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another.

Muslims, Mormons, and Seventh Day Adventists avoid alcohol. Hindus, India's largest religious population, consider it unholy to eat beef. Most are also vegetarian. Muslims and Jews are forbidden to eat pork (and, in addition, Jews do not eat shellfish), and Roman Catholics may choose fish rather than red meat on Fridays. Body Language and Gestures
In India, Africa, and the Middle East, people always use their right hand for greeting, touching, and eating. They consider the left hand unclean, so you should never use it for anything publicly. Several cultures consider crossing your legs to be rude. For example, in the Middle East and South Africa, crossed legs often show the sole of the foot, a sign of an ill wish or a bad omen. In Japan, it's considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone older or more respected than you. Certain gestures considered acceptable in one country can be highly offensive in another.

Dos and Don'ts of Cultural Body Language Around the World - MosaLingua
Cultural Body Language Around the World
Gestures and Body Language in Different Cultures
Head movements
Eye contact
Hands
Greetings and goodbyes
Legs
The Importance of Body Language Video
Did you like this article?
One click won't cost you anything, but it would mean a lot to us:
Want to start improving your language skills today?
 But it’s done in different contexts in different countries. In Romania, for example, only men usually shake hands. And they do it every time they meet, not just the first! It’s not uncommon for men to shake the hands of 20 coworkers when they get to work. In England, however, it’s unusual to shake
Kissing cheeks is something done in many countries, especially in Europe. Though the number of kisses, the occasion for doing so, and which cheek they start off on vary. In Oriental Asia it’s common to bow where as in Southeast Asia both hands are placed together as well (like when praying). Legs
isrespectful in Asia and the Middle East where a straight and balanced posture prevails as the norm. Sitting with crossed legs is common in North America and European countries, but it is considered d
I hope the information on gestures from different countries has sparked a new interest in you to learn more about new cultures. Don’t forget that the MosaLingua a pps for language learning is ideal for learning more about a certain culture as well as its language.

Dos and Don'ts of Cultural Body Language Around the World - MosaLingua

Cultural Body Language Around the World
Gestures and Body Language in Different Cultures
Head movements
Eye contact
Hands
Greetings and goodbyes
Legs
The Importance of Body Language Video
Did you like this article?
One click won't cost you anything, but it would mean a lot to us:
Want to start improving your language skills today?

But it’s done in different contexts in different countries. In Romania, for example, only men usually shake hands. And they do it every time they meet, not just the first! It’s not uncommon for men to shake the hands of 20 coworkers when they get to work. In England, however, it’s unusual to shake
Kissing cheeks is something done in many countries, especially in Europe. Though the number of kisses, the occasion for doing so, and which cheek they start off on vary. In Oriental Asia it’s common to bow where as in Southeast Asia both hands are placed together as well (like when praying). Legs
isrespectful in Asia and the Middle East where a straight and balanced posture prevails as the norm. Sitting with crossed legs is common in North America and European countries, but it is considered d
I hope the information on gestures from different countries has sparked a new interest in you to learn more about new cultures. Don’t forget that the MosaLingua a pps for language learning is ideal for learning more about a certain culture as well as its language.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 are impossible to do in skirts or certain types of women's traditional clothing (such as the premodern kimono) without risk of exposure, so an alternative informal sitting posture has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor, termed yokozuwari (横座り, literally "sideways sitting"). Wariza
Another informal sitting posture for women is called wariza (割座, literally "separate or split sitting", "w-sitting" or "reverse tailor style sitting" in English) which resembles seiza posture, whereby the buttocks are on the floor and the lower legs are bent off to their respective sides. Kiza
This iaido practitioner is executing a cut directly from kiza
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座 / 跪坐). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position. In some schools of iaido, practitioners stand up to draw the sword and cut after momentarily assuming kiza, so as not to sprain the instep jumping up directly from seiza . See also
Genuflection
Kowtow
Vajrasana (yoga)
References
^ "IroMegane: Is Seiza really the traditional way to sit for Japanese people?". iromegane.com. ^ "正座は日本の文化，でも明治の文化。".

Seiza - Wikipedia

are impossible to do in skirts or certain types of women's traditional clothing (such as the premodern kimono) without risk of exposure, so an alternative informal sitting posture has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor, termed yokozuwari (横座り, literally "sideways sitting"). Wariza
Another informal sitting posture for women is called wariza (割座, literally "separate or split sitting", "w-sitting" or "reverse tailor style sitting" in English) which resembles seiza posture, whereby the buttocks are on the floor and the lower legs are bent off to their respective sides. Kiza
This iaido practitioner is executing a cut directly from kiza
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座 / 跪坐). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position. In some schools of iaido, practitioners stand up to draw the sword and cut after momentarily assuming kiza, so as not to sprain the instep jumping up directly from seiza . See also
Genuflection
Kowtow
Vajrasana (yoga)
References
^ "IroMegane: Is Seiza really the traditional way to sit for Japanese people?". iromegane.com. ^ "正座は日本の文化，でも明治の文化。".

Etiquette in the Middle East - Wikipedia Etiquette in the Middle East
Etiquette in the Middle East
Points of etiquette
See also
References
 Orthodox Christian sites might require the removal of hats by men but will expect women to cover their hair with a kerchief or veil. Public displays of affection between people of the opposite sex, including between married people, are frowned upon everywhere more conservative values hold sway. Public displays of affection include activities as minor as hand-holding. In many cases, people of the same sex holding hands while walking is considered an ordinary display of friendship without romantic connotations. In a related point, many people in the Middle East claim a more modest amount of personal space than that which is usual elsewhere. Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards.

Orthodox Christian sites might require the removal of hats by men but will expect women to cover their hair with a kerchief or veil. Public displays of affection between people of the opposite sex, including between married people, are frowned upon everywhere more conservative values hold sway. Public displays of affection include activities as minor as hand-holding. In many cases, people of the same sex holding hands while walking is considered an ordinary display of friendship without romantic connotations. In a related point, many people in the Middle East claim a more modest amount of personal space than that which is usual elsewhere. Accordingly, it can seem rude for an individual to step away when another individual is stepping closer. Special respect is paid to older people in many circumstances. This can include standing when older people enter a room, always greeting older people before others present (even if they are better known to you), standing when speaking to one’s elders, kissing the head of an elderly relative, and serving older people first at a meal table. Hospitality is held in high regard throughout the Middle East. Some hosts take pride in the laborious preparation of what is known in Europe as “ Turkish coffee ”, grinding fresh-roasted coffee beans to a fine powder, dissolving sugar, and carefully regulating the heat to produce a result that meets exacting standards.

 8. Having one hand in your pocket
This is considered arrogant in Turkey, as well as some Asian countries, like South Korea. 9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper, and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful.

8. Having one hand in your pocket
This is considered arrogant in Turkey, as well as some Asian countries, like South Korea. 9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper, and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful.

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
 Tipping
A contentious issue even here, both over- and under-tipping can quickly make you the least popular person at the table. But in Japan and South Korea tipping is seen as an insult. In those countries, workers feel they are getting paid to do their job, and take pride in doing it well; they don't need an added incentive. 2. Sitting in the back of a cab
While it's customary for Americans to hop into the back of a cab, in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, it's considered rude not to ride shotgun. Whereas cabbies in the US will sigh and reluctantly move their newspapers and lunches from the front seat, in other countries it's a matter of egality. 3. Throwing a thumbs up
In a lot of countries, especially in the Middle East, Latin America, Western Africa, Russia and Greece, a thumbs up basically has the same meaning as holding up a middle finger does for Americans. 4.

Tipping
A contentious issue even here, both over- and under-tipping can quickly make you the least popular person at the table. But in Japan and South Korea tipping is seen as an insult. In those countries, workers feel they are getting paid to do their job, and take pride in doing it well; they don't need an added incentive. 2. Sitting in the back of a cab
While it's customary for Americans to hop into the back of a cab, in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, it's considered rude not to ride shotgun. Whereas cabbies in the US will sigh and reluctantly move their newspapers and lunches from the front seat, in other countries it's a matter of egality. 3. Throwing a thumbs up
In a lot of countries, especially in the Middle East, Latin America, Western Africa, Russia and Greece, a thumbs up basically has the same meaning as holding up a middle finger does for Americans. 4.

Culture Awareness in the Workplace | Cleverism Culture Awareness in the Workplace
Culture Awareness in the Workplace
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
Negotiations
Respect of power
Nonverbal communication
Openness towards the unknown
Restrain
Individualism
CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Holidays & traditions
Dress code
Gender-based conduct
HOW TO CREATE AND PRESERVE CULTURAL AWARENESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Cultural awareness and cultural diversity policies
Direction
Clarity in communication
Sensitivity
Self-awareness
Flexibility
Diversity
Reinforcement
CONCLUSION
Share your thoughts and experience
 In the Western world, seating arrangements are rarely done. The number or position of your chair would have little to no significance and even if you happen to take someone’s seat it is usually taken light-heartedly. That is not the case for businesspeople from China and Japan. You have to be seated by rank – the highest in rank from your side will sit the closest to the highest in rank from the other side. Failing to respect the seating arrangement will be quite the embarrassing situation. Businessmen from countries such the UK, the USA and most of Europe would go out of their way to eliminate or minimize the sense of inequality. Freedom and justice are highly valued. Employees expect to be consulted for their opinion and for it to be taken into account whenever the situation allows it. Control is highly avoided. Micromanagement is off-putting and suffocating.

In the Western world, seating arrangements are rarely done. The number or position of your chair would have little to no significance and even if you happen to take someone’s seat it is usually taken light-heartedly. That is not the case for businesspeople from China and Japan. You have to be seated by rank – the highest in rank from your side will sit the closest to the highest in rank from the other side. Failing to respect the seating arrangement will be quite the embarrassing situation. Businessmen from countries such the UK, the USA and most of Europe would go out of their way to eliminate or minimize the sense of inequality. Freedom and justice are highly valued. Employees expect to be consulted for their opinion and for it to be taken into account whenever the situation allows it. Control is highly avoided. Micromanagement is off-putting and suffocating.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Seiza" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR
(July 2010)

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Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India) and Shinzō Abe (Prime Minister of Japan) sitting seiza -style during a tea ceremony
Seiza ( 正座 or 正坐, literally "proper sitting") is the Japanese term for the standard formal traditional way of sitting in Japan . Contents
1 Form
2 History
3 Floor
4 Difficulties
5 Use in traditional arts
5.1 Shikkō
6 Alternative sitting positions
6.1 Agura
6.2 Yokozuwari
6.3 Wariza
6.4 Kiza
7 See also
8 References
Form
To sit seiza -style, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one's legs underneath one's thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight "V" shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes overlapped, the right always on top of the left, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Depending on the circumstances, the hands are folded modestly in the lap, or are placed palm down on the upper thighs with the fingers close together, or are placed on the floor next to the hips, with the knuckles rounded and touching the floor. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow
Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow
Afghanistan: Kiss Bread That Is Dropped on the Floor
Canada: Arrive Fashionably Late
Chile: Never Eat with Your Hands
China: Make a Mess and Belch
China: Never Flip a Fish
Egypt: Don’t Refill Your Own Glass
England: Pass the Port to the Left, and Know the Bishop of Norwich
Ethiopia: Eat with Your Right Hand From One Plate
France: Use Bread as a Utensil
Georgia: Make a Toast, Then Empty Your Glass in One Sip
Hungary: Make Eye Contact When Toasting
Italy: Don’t Put Parmesan on Pizza
Italy: Never Order A Cappuccino After A Meal
Inuit Tribes: Passing Gas
Japan: Slurp Your Food to Say Thank You
Japan: Never Stick Your Chopsticks Into a Rice Bowl Straight Up
Korea: Accept the First Drink
Korea: The Oldest Eats First
Middle East: Only Use Your Right Hand
Portugal: Step Away From the Salt
Russia: Drink Vodka Neat and Always Accept a Drink
South America: Pay Respect to Mother Earth
Thailand: Don't Eat Rice with a Fork
Tanzania: Hide the Soles of Your Feet
Venezuela: Arrive 15 Minutes Late
 Never Stick Your Chopsticks Into a Rice Bowl Straight Up
Mahyuddin Mustafa/Shutterstock
The Japanese associate food that is presented this way with funeral offerings to ghosts. It created quite a stirr last year when a takeout box emoji was designed with the chopsticks sticking straight up! Next
Korea: Accept the First Drink
istockphoto.com
If you want to be seen as sociable in Korea always say yes to the first drink, but don’t be the first pour. You must first pour for others before you go for that refill, or just ask someone to do it for you if you just can’t wait. Next
Korea: The Oldest Eats First
Dreamstime
In Korea, it is considered polite to wait to eat until the oldest person has begun eating. It's also polite to keep pace with them the entire meal, so if they're eating slowly–so are you. Next
Middle East: Only Use Your Right Hand
Shutterstock
In Middle Eastern countries (also India and parts of Africa) eating with your hand is commonplace, but make sure it’s the right one!

Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow

Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow
Burping Is Good Manners and 25 Other Etiquette Surprises From Around the World Slideshow
Afghanistan: Kiss Bread That Is Dropped on the Floor
Canada: Arrive Fashionably Late
Chile: Never Eat with Your Hands
China: Make a Mess and Belch
China: Never Flip a Fish
Egypt: Don’t Refill Your Own Glass
England: Pass the Port to the Left, and Know the Bishop of Norwich
Ethiopia: Eat with Your Right Hand From One Plate
France: Use Bread as a Utensil
Georgia: Make a Toast, Then Empty Your Glass in One Sip
Hungary: Make Eye Contact When Toasting
Italy: Don’t Put Parmesan on Pizza
Italy: Never Order A Cappuccino After A Meal
Inuit Tribes: Passing Gas
Japan: Slurp Your Food to Say Thank You
Japan: Never Stick Your Chopsticks Into a Rice Bowl Straight Up
Korea: Accept the First Drink
Korea: The Oldest Eats First
Middle East: Only Use Your Right Hand
Portugal: Step Away From the Salt
Russia: Drink Vodka Neat and Always Accept a Drink
South America: Pay Respect to Mother Earth
Thailand: Don't Eat Rice with a Fork
Tanzania: Hide the Soles of Your Feet
Venezuela: Arrive 15 Minutes Late

Never Stick Your Chopsticks Into a Rice Bowl Straight Up
Mahyuddin Mustafa/Shutterstock
The Japanese associate food that is presented this way with funeral offerings to ghosts. It created quite a stirr last year when a takeout box emoji was designed with the chopsticks sticking straight up! Next
Korea: Accept the First Drink
istockphoto.com
If you want to be seen as sociable in Korea always say yes to the first drink, but don’t be the first pour. You must first pour for others before you go for that refill, or just ask someone to do it for you if you just can’t wait. Next
Korea: The Oldest Eats First
Dreamstime
In Korea, it is considered polite to wait to eat until the oldest person has begun eating. It's also polite to keep pace with them the entire meal, so if they're eating slowly–so are you. Next
Middle East: Only Use Your Right Hand
Shutterstock
In Middle Eastern countries (also India and parts of Africa) eating with your hand is commonplace, but make sure it’s the right one!

Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams - BrightHub Project Management Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams
Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams
Page content
Nonverbal Communication Carries More Meaning than Words
Nonverbal Communication: Different Cultures, Typical Differences
 Touching
Handshakes are usually acceptable almost everywhere, even between strangers; however, kissing on the cheek, patting on the shoulder, embraces, or touching other bodily parts aren’t – for many people in Asia and other parts of the world such actions are interpreted as an offense or even a violation of one’s private space. This is why you should avoid touching. Eye Contact
Eye contact is one of the forms of nonverbal communication where the differences are most striking. In America and Latin America not looking the other person in the eye is a sign of disrespect and it might even look suspicious (“he or she doesn’t dare to look me in the eye, so he or she is hiding something”). In other cultures, i.e. Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact is especially offensive, so you should avoid it at all costs. Physical Postures
Physical postures are also quite of a difference between cultures. The most common example is the habit of many American executives to rest with their feet on their desk, which in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe is considered highly offensive. As you see, the differences in nonverbal communication between cultures are pretty striking. This means that when you need to communicate with people from different cultures, it makes sense to learn in advance about their nonverbal communication.

Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams - BrightHub Project Management

Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams
Nonverbal Communication : Different Cultures, Different Meanings for Project Teams
Page content
Nonverbal Communication Carries More Meaning than Words
Nonverbal Communication: Different Cultures, Typical Differences

Touching
Handshakes are usually acceptable almost everywhere, even between strangers; however, kissing on the cheek, patting on the shoulder, embraces, or touching other bodily parts aren’t – for many people in Asia and other parts of the world such actions are interpreted as an offense or even a violation of one’s private space. This is why you should avoid touching. Eye Contact
Eye contact is one of the forms of nonverbal communication where the differences are most striking. In America and Latin America not looking the other person in the eye is a sign of disrespect and it might even look suspicious (“he or she doesn’t dare to look me in the eye, so he or she is hiding something”). In other cultures, i.e. Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact is especially offensive, so you should avoid it at all costs. Physical Postures
Physical postures are also quite of a difference between cultures. The most common example is the habit of many American executives to rest with their feet on their desk, which in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe is considered highly offensive. As you see, the differences in nonverbal communication between cultures are pretty striking. This means that when you need to communicate with people from different cultures, it makes sense to learn in advance about their nonverbal communication.

13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World | HowStuffWorks 13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
1. Belching
2. Watch Your Feet!
3. Swapping Business Cards
4. Crushing Handshake
5. To Shake or Not to Shake
6.Clearing Your Plate
7. No Tipping!
8. Mixed Signals
9. The "Peace" Salute
10. Exposing Your Palms
11. Lose the Shoes
12. Chewing Gum
13. Left-handed Greetings
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Manners Around the World FAQ
What is cultural etiquette?
Which country has the best manners?
Can good manners in one country be bad manners in another country?
Are table manners the same worldwide?
What are the three rules of etiquette?
 In most of the Middle and Far East, it is considered an insult to point your feet (particularly the soles) at another person or to display them in any way, for example, by resting with your feet up. Advertisement
3. Swapping Business Cards
In most Asian countries, a business card is seen as an extension of the person it represents; therefore, to disrespect a card -- by folding it, writing on it, or just shoving it into your pocket without looking at it -- is to disrespect the person who gave it to you. Advertisement
4. Crushing Handshake
Nowadays, a bone-crushing handshake is seen as admirable in the United States and U.K., but in much of the East, particularly the Philippines, it is seen as a sign of aggression -- just as if you gave any other part of a person's body a hard squeeze! Advertisement
5. To Shake or Not to Shake
Orthodox Jews will not shake hands with someone of the opposite sex, while a strict Muslim woman will not shake hands with a man. To confuse matters, a Muslim man will shake hands with a non-Muslim woman. People in these cultures generally avoid touching people of the opposite sex who are not family members.

13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World | HowStuffWorks

13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
1. Belching
2. Watch Your Feet!
3. Swapping Business Cards
4. Crushing Handshake
5. To Shake or Not to Shake
6.Clearing Your Plate
7. No Tipping!
8. Mixed Signals
9. The "Peace" Salute
10. Exposing Your Palms
11. Lose the Shoes
12. Chewing Gum
13. Left-handed Greetings
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Manners Around the World FAQ
What is cultural etiquette?
Which country has the best manners?
Can good manners in one country be bad manners in another country?
Are table manners the same worldwide?
What are the three rules of etiquette?

In most of the Middle and Far East, it is considered an insult to point your feet (particularly the soles) at another person or to display them in any way, for example, by resting with your feet up. Advertisement
3. Swapping Business Cards
In most Asian countries, a business card is seen as an extension of the person it represents; therefore, to disrespect a card -- by folding it, writing on it, or just shoving it into your pocket without looking at it -- is to disrespect the person who gave it to you. Advertisement
4. Crushing Handshake
Nowadays, a bone-crushing handshake is seen as admirable in the United States and U.K., but in much of the East, particularly the Philippines, it is seen as a sign of aggression -- just as if you gave any other part of a person's body a hard squeeze! Advertisement
5. To Shake or Not to Shake
Orthodox Jews will not shake hands with someone of the opposite sex, while a strict Muslim woman will not shake hands with a man. To confuse matters, a Muslim man will shake hands with a non-Muslim woman. People in these cultures generally avoid touching people of the opposite sex who are not family members.

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose
 8. Having one hand in your pocket
This is considered arrogant in Turkey, as well as some Asian countries, like South Korea. 9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper , and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating, or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful.

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose

8. Having one hand in your pocket
This is considered arrogant in Turkey, as well as some Asian countries, like South Korea. 9. Using your left hand for anything
Not all cultures have or use toilet paper , and tend to use their left hand in lieu of it. Accepting gifts, eating, or doing pretty much anything with your left hand in much of Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East is like a (disgusting) slap in the face. 10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful.

Respect - Wikipedia Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only. If a woman does not wear cosmetics or a brassiere, it is possible that she will be considered unprofessional or others may think she does not care about the situation.

Respect - Wikipedia

Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links

Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only. If a woman does not wear cosmetics or a brassiere, it is possible that she will be considered unprofessional or others may think she does not care about the situation.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Shikkō
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikido, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō . To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit. Movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips in a way that is considered valuable for aikido training. Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position
Main article: Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.)

Seiza - Wikipedia

Shikkō
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikido, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō . To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit. Movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips in a way that is considered valuable for aikido training. Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position
Main article: Agura
Sitting cross-legged, agura, is considered informal: it is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people . Yokozuwari
A seated Samurai holding his sword with one hand. Some sitting postures (e.g. agura, tatehiza, etc.)

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication

It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable. 13. Colds and Allergies
Photo by Stephan Geyer via Flickr
When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it’s polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it’s seen as rude. 14.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 However, the physical discomfort lessens with experience as the circulation of the blood improves. Experienced seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee problems are made worse when assuming this position, specifically Osgood-Schlatter disease. Special seiza stools are available in Japan. They are folding stools, small enough to be carried in a handbag, which are placed between the feet and on which one rests the buttocks when sitting seiza-style. They allow one to maintain the appearance of sitting seiza while discreetly taking pressure off the heels and feet. A new law coming into effect in April 2020 recognizes seiza for extended periods of time as a morally unacceptable form of punishment according to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Use in traditional arts
The judo practitioner at right performs a bow while seated in seiza
Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryūrei was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way of sitting while doing other arts such as shodō (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays. Many theatres for traditional performing arts such as kabuki and sumo still have audience seating sections where the spectators sit in seiza style.

Seiza - Wikipedia

However, the physical discomfort lessens with experience as the circulation of the blood improves. Experienced seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee problems are made worse when assuming this position, specifically Osgood-Schlatter disease. Special seiza stools are available in Japan. They are folding stools, small enough to be carried in a handbag, which are placed between the feet and on which one rests the buttocks when sitting seiza-style. They allow one to maintain the appearance of sitting seiza while discreetly taking pressure off the heels and feet. A new law coming into effect in April 2020 recognizes seiza for extended periods of time as a morally unacceptable form of punishment according to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Use in traditional arts
The judo practitioner at right performs a bow while seated in seiza
Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryūrei was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way of sitting while doing other arts such as shodō (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays. Many theatres for traditional performing arts such as kabuki and sumo still have audience seating sections where the spectators sit in seiza style.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 They allow one to maintain the appearance of sitting seiza while discreetly taking pressure off the heels and feet. A new law coming into effect in April 2020 recognizes seiza for extended periods of time as a morally unacceptable form of punishment according to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Use in traditional arts
The judo practitioner at right performs a bow while seated in seiza
Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryūrei was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way of sitting while doing other arts such as shodō (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays. Many theatres for traditional performing arts such as kabuki and sumo still have audience seating sections where the spectators sit in seiza style. Shikkō
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly. Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikido, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō . To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit. Movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips in a way that is considered valuable for aikido training. Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Sakakibara Yasumasa sitting in agura position
Main article:

Seiza - Wikipedia

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 So before we get into gestures you may actually want to use, here are some gestures and body language that may cause offense. Looking people in the eye too much
While in English-speaking countries looking people in the eye is considered respectful because it shows that you’re paying close attention to what they have to say, in Japan it can be considered too close for comfort, or even aggressive and intimidating. If you’re speaking with someone and they keep staring at their shoes or looking away, perhaps they’re feeling a little overwhelmed by your stare. Try looking to the side a little, or at least glancing down or to the side a little more frequently. Spreading out arms and legs
Anyone who has ever missed out on a seat on the train because someone has spread out wide enough to take up space for two understands how frustrating that behavior can be. Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed.

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!

Floor sitting benefits: Is it better than sitting on a chair? - CNN Sitting on the floor: Is it better than sitting on a chair?
Sitting on the floor: Is it better than sitting on a chair?
By Nachiappan Chockalingam and Aoife Healy
READ MORE: How to make sure your mask maximizes protection, according to a nurse
Effects on the body
Spinal structure
Current evidence
 The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the writers. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation, a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation. (The Conversation) For thousands of years, humans have rested on the ground using variations of a squat, cross-legged or a kneeling position. And despite the availability of chairs and things to sit on, sitting on the floor is still common in many cultures. According to reports, many English-speaking people refer to floor sitting as "Indian style," though it's also known as "Turkish style." In Korea, it's called "Yangban style" -- named after the traditional ruling class. While in Japan, the formal way to sit is called "seiza," which involves sitting on the heels with the knees resting on the floor. In yoga, sitting cross-legged on the floor is known as "sukhasana" or lotus -- claimed to have been designed to stretch the muscles, improve posture and bring peace of mind. Some people claim that if you sit in this position while eating it helps digestion.

Floor sitting benefits: Is it better than sitting on a chair? - CNN

Sitting on the floor: Is it better than sitting on a chair?
Sitting on the floor: Is it better than sitting on a chair?
By Nachiappan Chockalingam and Aoife Healy
READ MORE: How to make sure your mask maximizes protection, according to a nurse
Effects on the body
Spinal structure
Current evidence

The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the writers. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation, a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation. (The Conversation) For thousands of years, humans have rested on the ground using variations of a squat, cross-legged or a kneeling position. And despite the availability of chairs and things to sit on, sitting on the floor is still common in many cultures. According to reports, many English-speaking people refer to floor sitting as "Indian style," though it's also known as "Turkish style." In Korea, it's called "Yangban style" -- named after the traditional ruling class. While in Japan, the formal way to sit is called "seiza," which involves sitting on the heels with the knees resting on the floor. In yoga, sitting cross-legged on the floor is known as "sukhasana" or lotus -- claimed to have been designed to stretch the muscles, improve posture and bring peace of mind. Some people claim that if you sit in this position while eating it helps digestion.

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose
 10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce, or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables — if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

10. Opening a present immediately
Shutterstock
In most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce, or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables — if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures | TheTalko 13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Normal Things That Are Rude In Other Cultures
13 Tipping
12 Whistling
11 Laughing With Your Mouth Open
10 Being On Time
9 Sitting In The Backseat Of A Cab
8 Changing Your Meal
7 Using Your Left Hand
6 Showing The Soles Of Your Feet
5 Crossing Your Fingers
4 Wearing Your Shoes Inside
3 Blowing Your Nose
2 Getting Excited About Presents
1 Talking With Your Hands In Your Pockets
 In most Asian and Caribbean cultures it's customary to remove your shoes off before entering someone's home. In Asia, the homes used to be raised a couple feet off the earth for ventilation between the floor and the damp earth, and it became a habit to remove the shoes before stepping up into the house. A lot of the traditional lifestyle centered around the floor, and many Asians also take reflexology pretty seriously: the belief that the feet need some time to breathe. 3 Blowing Your Nose
This one sort of makes sense because blowing your nose is pretty gross when you think about it, but in some countries it's considered beyond gross and even downright repulsive. Don't think about going public with your tissues in China, France, Japan, Turkey, or Saudi Arabia. Perhaps it feels a little too close for comfort. After all, in places like China, Korea, Thailand, and the Middle East, it can be offensive even to touch or hug someone depending on the circumstance. 2 Getting Excited About Presents
If you're lucky enough to receive a gift from someone in China or India, you shouldn't open it immediately in their company. It's considered greedy and poor form to do it while the gift giver is still around.

In most Asian and Caribbean cultures it's customary to remove your shoes off before entering someone's home. In Asia, the homes used to be raised a couple feet off the earth for ventilation between the floor and the damp earth, and it became a habit to remove the shoes before stepping up into the house. A lot of the traditional lifestyle centered around the floor, and many Asians also take reflexology pretty seriously: the belief that the feet need some time to breathe. 3 Blowing Your Nose
This one sort of makes sense because blowing your nose is pretty gross when you think about it, but in some countries it's considered beyond gross and even downright repulsive. Don't think about going public with your tissues in China, France, Japan, Turkey, or Saudi Arabia. Perhaps it feels a little too close for comfort. After all, in places like China, Korea, Thailand, and the Middle East, it can be offensive even to touch or hug someone depending on the circumstance. 2 Getting Excited About Presents
If you're lucky enough to receive a gift from someone in China or India, you shouldn't open it immediately in their company. It's considered greedy and poor form to do it while the gift giver is still around.

Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits - UPRIGHT Posture Training Device Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits
Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits
Upright
Get better sitting posture in just 14 days with the UPRIGHT GO 2.
Why sitting on the floor is healthier
Improved posture
Improved strength
Improved flexibility
How people sit around the world
Cross-legged
Squatting
Kneeling
When it’s appropriate to sit on the floor
 In any case, it’s interesting to observe their sitting customs and to understand why they sit the way they do. Cross-legged
This is the most common and the most comfortable position. Referred to in yoga circles as “easy pose” or “sukhasana,” it’s designed to stretch the muscles, improve posture, and bring peace of mind. Squatting
Squatting provides the most flexibility to move around and participate in physical activities. The goal is to place the heels on the ground, taking pressure off of the knees and thighs. Kneeling
This is accomplished by resting on the lower legs and sitting on your heels. It’s both a yoga position (kneeling pose) and a formal way to sit in Japan. When it’s appropriate to sit on the floor
Now, you may be wondering when you would even find an opportunity to sit on the ground. It’s not like you can do it in the middle of work – at least, not without attracting some strange looks from your colleagues! There are, of course, activities that lend themselves to sitting on the floor such as watching TV, playing card games, reading a book, and even eating dinner.

Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits - UPRIGHT Posture Training Device

Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits
Sitting on the Floor: Posture & Health Benefits
Upright
Get better sitting posture in just 14 days with the UPRIGHT GO 2.
Why sitting on the floor is healthier
Improved posture
Improved strength
Improved flexibility
How people sit around the world
Cross-legged
Squatting
Kneeling
When it’s appropriate to sit on the floor

In any case, it’s interesting to observe their sitting customs and to understand why they sit the way they do. Cross-legged
This is the most common and the most comfortable position. Referred to in yoga circles as “easy pose” or “sukhasana,” it’s designed to stretch the muscles, improve posture, and bring peace of mind. Squatting
Squatting provides the most flexibility to move around and participate in physical activities. The goal is to place the heels on the ground, taking pressure off of the knees and thighs. Kneeling
This is accomplished by resting on the lower legs and sitting on your heels. It’s both a yoga position (kneeling pose) and a formal way to sit in Japan. When it’s appropriate to sit on the floor
Now, you may be wondering when you would even find an opportunity to sit on the ground. It’s not like you can do it in the middle of work – at least, not without attracting some strange looks from your colleagues! There are, of course, activities that lend themselves to sitting on the floor such as watching TV, playing card games, reading a book, and even eating dinner.

Seiza - Wikipedia Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References
 Depending on the formality of the occasion, the setting, and the relative status of the person, it is sometimes acceptable to sit on a special cushion called a zabuton (literally a "sitting futon "). Difficulties
Frederick Starr sitting in the seiza style on a zabuton
Sometimes stools are provided for elderly or injured people even when others are expected to sit seiza -style. It is advisable, particularly in formal situations, to at least try to sit seiza -style. Non-Japanese who have not grown up sitting in this posture may, however, have difficulty assuming it at all. Those unfamiliar with seiza will likely find that maintaining it for more than a minute or two tends to lead to paresthesia, whereby the compression of the nerves causes a loss of their blood flow, with the accompanying "pins and needles" feeling, followed by painful burning sensations, and then eventually complete numbness in the legs. However, the physical discomfort lessens with experience as the circulation of the blood improves. Experienced seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee problems are made worse when assuming this position, specifically Osgood-Schlatter disease. Special seiza stools are available in Japan. They are folding stools, small enough to be carried in a handbag, which are placed between the feet and on which one rests the buttocks when sitting seiza-style.

Seiza - Wikipedia

Seiza
Seiza
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Contents
Form
History
Floor
Difficulties
Use in traditional arts
Shikkō
Alternative sitting positions
Agura
Yokozuwari
Wariza
Kiza
See also
References

Depending on the formality of the occasion, the setting, and the relative status of the person, it is sometimes acceptable to sit on a special cushion called a zabuton (literally a "sitting futon "). Difficulties
Frederick Starr sitting in the seiza style on a zabuton
Sometimes stools are provided for elderly or injured people even when others are expected to sit seiza -style. It is advisable, particularly in formal situations, to at least try to sit seiza -style. Non-Japanese who have not grown up sitting in this posture may, however, have difficulty assuming it at all. Those unfamiliar with seiza will likely find that maintaining it for more than a minute or two tends to lead to paresthesia, whereby the compression of the nerves causes a loss of their blood flow, with the accompanying "pins and needles" feeling, followed by painful burning sensations, and then eventually complete numbness in the legs. However, the physical discomfort lessens with experience as the circulation of the blood improves. Experienced seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee problems are made worse when assuming this position, specifically Osgood-Schlatter disease. Special seiza stools are available in Japan. They are folding stools, small enough to be carried in a handbag, which are placed between the feet and on which one rests the buttocks when sitting seiza-style.

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones Kobe Jones Blog
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Sitting
Honour
Towels
Gratitude
Chopsticks
Handling
Drinking
Soup
Clam shells
Soya sauce
Wasabi
Pouring
Tea ceremonies
Ending your meal
Paying the bill
 A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Whether eating with new Japanese friends, dining in a Japanese restaurant, or attending a business lunch with a Japanese client, following a few simple etiquette rules can make you shine. Most Japanese people will forgive you for not understanding their customs and beliefs, but by following common etiquette you demonstrate good manners and respect. There are many different components to Japanese etiquette when it comes to dining, and certain situations call for different reactions. Sitting
Typically the Japanese eat at low dining tables and sit on a cushion placed on tatami floor (a reed-like mat). In formal situations both men and women kneel (“seiza”), while in casual situations the men sit cross-legged and women sit with both legs to one side. Honour
The most important person at each meal sits on the seat of honour – known as “kamiza”. The kamiza is placed farthest from the entrance to the room where the meal is held. If there is tokonoma in the room (a built-in recessed space), guests sit in front of it. The host sits at the middle of the table on one side. Towels
In restaurants and bars a hot steamed towel (“oshibori”) is offered so you can clean your hands.

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones

Kobe Jones Blog
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Sitting
Honour
Towels
Gratitude
Chopsticks
Handling
Drinking
Soup
Clam shells
Soya sauce
Wasabi
Pouring
Tea ceremonies
Ending your meal
Paying the bill

A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette - Kobe Jones
Kobe Jones Blog
A Complete Guide To Japanese Dining Etiquette
Whether eating with new Japanese friends, dining in a Japanese restaurant, or attending a business lunch with a Japanese client, following a few simple etiquette rules can make you shine. Most Japanese people will forgive you for not understanding their customs and beliefs, but by following common etiquette you demonstrate good manners and respect. There are many different components to Japanese etiquette when it comes to dining, and certain situations call for different reactions. Sitting
Typically the Japanese eat at low dining tables and sit on a cushion placed on tatami floor (a reed-like mat). In formal situations both men and women kneel (“seiza”), while in casual situations the men sit cross-legged and women sit with both legs to one side. Honour
The most important person at each meal sits on the seat of honour – known as “kamiza”. The kamiza is placed farthest from the entrance to the room where the meal is held. If there is tokonoma in the room (a built-in recessed space), guests sit in front of it. The host sits at the middle of the table on one side. Towels
In restaurants and bars a hot steamed towel (“oshibori”) is offered so you can clean your hands.

13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World | HowStuffWorks 13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
13 Examples of Good and Bad Manners Around the World
1. Belching
2. Watch Your Feet!
3. Swapping Business Cards
4. Crushing Handshake
5. To Shake or Not to Shake
6.Clearing Your Plate
7. No Tipping!
8. Mixed Signals
9. The "Peace" Salute
10. Exposing Your Palms
11. Lose the Shoes
12. Chewing Gum
13. Left-handed Greetings
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Manners Around the World FAQ
What is cultural etiquette?
Which country has the best manners?
Can good manners in one country be bad manners in another country?
Are table manners the same worldwide?
What are the three rules of etiquette?
 Swapping Business Cards
Crushing Handshake
To Shake or Not to Shake
Clearing Your Plate
No Tipping! Mixed Signals
The "Peace" Salute
Exposing Your Palms
Lose the Shoes
Chewing Gum
Left-handed Greetings
1. Belching
In China, Taiwan, and much of the Far East, belching is considered a compliment to the chef and a sign that you have eaten well and enjoyed your meal. Advertisement
2. Watch Your Feet! In most of the Middle and Far East, it is considered an insult to point your feet (particularly the soles) at another person or to display them in any way, for example, by resting with your feet up. Advertisement
3. Swapping Business Cards
In most Asian countries, a business card is seen as an extension of the person it represents; therefore, to disrespect a card -- by folding it, writing on it, or just shoving it into your pocket without looking at it -- is to disrespect the person who gave it to you. Advertisement
4.

Swapping Business Cards
Crushing Handshake
To Shake or Not to Shake
Clearing Your Plate
No Tipping! Mixed Signals
The "Peace" Salute
Exposing Your Palms
Lose the Shoes
Chewing Gum
Left-handed Greetings
1. Belching
In China, Taiwan, and much of the Far East, belching is considered a compliment to the chef and a sign that you have eaten well and enjoyed your meal. Advertisement
2. Watch Your Feet! In most of the Middle and Far East, it is considered an insult to point your feet (particularly the soles) at another person or to display them in any way, for example, by resting with your feet up. Advertisement
3. Swapping Business Cards
In most Asian countries, a business card is seen as an extension of the person it represents; therefore, to disrespect a card -- by folding it, writing on it, or just shoving it into your pocket without looking at it -- is to disrespect the person who gave it to you. Advertisement
4.

Respect - Wikipedia Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 This also counts for money, which is considered to be a manifestation of the goddess of wealth Lakshmi. Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only.

Respect - Wikipedia

This also counts for money, which is considered to be a manifestation of the goddess of wealth Lakshmi. Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan. For instance, one should not point directly at someone. When greeting someone or thanking them, it may be insulting if the person of lower status does not bow lower than the person with higher status. The duration and level of the bow depends on many factors such as age and status. Some signs of physical respect apply to women only.

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures | Backpacker Travel Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
What’s in this Guide
1. Greetings & Communication
The handshake
Eye contact
2. Personal Space
Touching
Holding hands
Public displays of affection (PDA)
3. Personal Hygiene
Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Face masks
Using your right hand
Toilets & sanitation
4. Gestures
Thumbs and hand signals
Getting someones attention
5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Religious sites
Take your shoes off when visiting someone’s house or a place of worship
6. Punctuality
7. Eating
Cutlery & hands
Slurping
Appetite
8. Communication
Volume control
Body language
9. Gender Differences
10. Law & Order
Respect authority
Police
Drinking in public
11. Final Tips Before You Go
Find out when festivals, celebrations or religious events are on when planning your trip
Don’t expect other places or people to be like what you are used to
Be careful
The Most Important Lesson – “Respect”
 Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Don’t be surprised to see people in Asia clearing the phlegm from their throat or nose in public places, but even then, keep your nasal noises to yourself as much as possible. Though you may see it happening doesn’t mean the average person likes it, especially around the dinner table. Face masks
In Japan, Korea and other parts of Asia, people will wear a mask in public if they are sick so as not to infect others. This will carry over to them traveling to other parts of the world as well. Masks will also be common in cities with higher pollution levels. Using your right hand
In places such as India, Africa, and the Middle East, a lot of food is eaten by hand at a communal table with others. In this situation, everyone is taught to use the right hand, as the left is utilized for more personal ‘grooming’ after the toilet. This carries over into greeting one another when shaking hands. Just imagine how offensive it is to offer someone your ‘dirty’ hand when saying hello! Toilets & sanitation
In the West, we enjoy the porcelain throne for our duties, but this is a modernity and unheard of outside of hotels for foreigners in many countries.

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures | Backpacker Travel

Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
Dealing With Different Customs & Cultures
What’s in this Guide
1. Greetings & Communication
The handshake
Eye contact
2. Personal Space
Touching
Holding hands
Public displays of affection (PDA)
3. Personal Hygiene
Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Face masks
Using your right hand
Toilets & sanitation
4. Gestures
Thumbs and hand signals
Getting someones attention
5. How to Dress
Proper street attire
Religious sites
Take your shoes off when visiting someone’s house or a place of worship
6. Punctuality
7. Eating
Cutlery & hands
Slurping
Appetite
8. Communication
Volume control
Body language
9. Gender Differences
10. Law & Order
Respect authority
Police
Drinking in public
11. Final Tips Before You Go
Find out when festivals, celebrations or religious events are on when planning your trip
Don’t expect other places or people to be like what you are used to
Be careful
The Most Important Lesson – “Respect”

Blowing your nose & clearing your throat
Don’t be surprised to see people in Asia clearing the phlegm from their throat or nose in public places, but even then, keep your nasal noises to yourself as much as possible. Though you may see it happening doesn’t mean the average person likes it, especially around the dinner table. Face masks
In Japan, Korea and other parts of Asia, people will wear a mask in public if they are sick so as not to infect others. This will carry over to them traveling to other parts of the world as well. Masks will also be common in cities with higher pollution levels. Using your right hand
In places such as India, Africa, and the Middle East, a lot of food is eaten by hand at a communal table with others. In this situation, everyone is taught to use the right hand, as the left is utilized for more personal ‘grooming’ after the toilet. This carries over into greeting one another when shaking hands. Just imagine how offensive it is to offer someone your ‘dirty’ hand when saying hello! Toilets & sanitation
In the West, we enjoy the porcelain throne for our duties, but this is a modernity and unheard of outside of hotels for foreigners in many countries.

 10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

10. Opening a present immediately
© Provided by Business InsiderIn most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. 11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
Sure "athleisure" (stylish sportswear worn outside of the gym) is a hot new trend stateside, but in most countries, notably Japan and most of Europe, this sort of sloppy appearance is considered disrespectful. 12. Altering your meal
In foodie cultures like France, Italy, Spain and Japan, asking for ketchup, hot sauce, soy sauce or salt to alter your meal may raise some eyebrows. Before you ask for a condiment, see if there are any on the tables - if not, you should probably refrain. 13. Showing the soles of your feet
In many Arab, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries, showing the soles of your feet is a sign of disrespect, as they're considered the lowest, and dirtiest part of the body, since they touch the dirty ground.

Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk? | Snopes.com Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk?
Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk?
A photograph of President Obama with his feet on his Oval Office desk is genuine, but the act it captures is neither "desecration" nor unprecedented.
Claim
Rating
Origin
Keep Snopes Debunking
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 By subscribing, you're accepting our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Keep reading, our fact check continues below. Origin
The above-displayed image is a genuine photograph of President Obama conversing with some of his staff in the Oval Office with his feet up on his desk. However, most of the accompanying text that was reproduced with this image was contrived and subjective invective intended to stir up partisan outrage: In over half of the cultures of the world, it is recognized not only as disrespectful, but as an extreme insult to show the bottom of your shoes. It is true that in some parts of the world showing the bottom of one’s shoes (even accidentally) is considered rude, but it isn’t true of American culture, nor do the areas where it does hold true (primarily the Middle East, Korea, Thailand, some parts of Africa) comprise anything close to “over half of the cultures of the world.” While this posture is disrespectful in any culture, it is absolutely never done in any executive setting. This posture is not the norm, perhaps, but it’s far from “absolutely never done.” Take, for example, this anecdote from a book about one of American’s most prominent business executives, Apple’s late co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs: Bill Curley, a middle-aged Apple marketing manager, remembers this incident from his very first week on the job at Apple. “

Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk? | Snopes.com

Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk?
Photograph Shows President Obama with His Feet on Oval Office Desk?
A photograph of President Obama with his feet on his Oval Office desk is genuine, but the act it captures is neither "desecration" nor unprecedented.
Claim
Rating
Origin
Keep Snopes Debunking
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The above-displayed image is a genuine photograph of President Obama conversing with some of his staff in the Oval Office with his feet up on his desk. However, most of the accompanying text that was reproduced with this image was contrived and subjective invective intended to stir up partisan outrage: In over half of the cultures of the world, it is recognized not only as disrespectful, but as an extreme insult to show the bottom of your shoes. It is true that in some parts of the world showing the bottom of one’s shoes (even accidentally) is considered rude, but it isn’t true of American culture, nor do the areas where it does hold true (primarily the Middle East, Korea, Thailand, some parts of Africa) comprise anything close to “over half of the cultures of the world.” While this posture is disrespectful in any culture, it is absolutely never done in any executive setting. This posture is not the norm, perhaps, but it’s far from “absolutely never done.” Take, for example, this anecdote from a book about one of American’s most prominent business executives, Apple’s late co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs: Bill Curley, a middle-aged Apple marketing manager, remembers this incident from his very first week on the job at Apple. “

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose
 they don't need an added incentive. 2. Sitting in the back of a cab
While it's customary for Americans to hop into the back of a cab, in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, it's considered rude not to ride shotgun. Whereas cabbies in the US will sigh and reluctantly move their newspapers and lunches from the front seat, in other countries it's a matter of egalitarianism. 3. Throwing a thumbs-up
In a lot of countries, especially in the Middle East, Latin America, Western Africa, Russia, and Greece, a thumbs-up basically has the same meaning as holding up a middle finger does for Americans. 4. Laughing with your mouth open
In Japan, laughter that exposes your pearly whites is considered horse-like and impolite — sort of like noisy, open-mouthed eating is considered rude to Americans. 5. Calling the USA "America"
REUTERS/Mike Blake
In South America, claiming you're from America, rather than the United States, is seen as being politically incorrect, as it implies that only the US should be considered America, and that South America is unworthy of the title.

they don't need an added incentive. 2. Sitting in the back of a cab
While it's customary for Americans to hop into the back of a cab, in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, it's considered rude not to ride shotgun. Whereas cabbies in the US will sigh and reluctantly move their newspapers and lunches from the front seat, in other countries it's a matter of egalitarianism. 3. Throwing a thumbs-up
In a lot of countries, especially in the Middle East, Latin America, Western Africa, Russia, and Greece, a thumbs-up basically has the same meaning as holding up a middle finger does for Americans. 4. Laughing with your mouth open
In Japan, laughter that exposes your pearly whites is considered horse-like and impolite — sort of like noisy, open-mouthed eating is considered rude to Americans. 5. Calling the USA "America"
REUTERS/Mike Blake
In South America, claiming you're from America, rather than the United States, is seen as being politically incorrect, as it implies that only the US should be considered America, and that South America is unworthy of the title.

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World - Bright Freak List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
Table of Contents
Interesting Taboos Around the World:
1. You cannot call a genital by its actual name
2. Restrictions between males and females
3. Never ask about a person’s income
4. Don’t drink until eye contact
5. Don’t whistle when you’re indoors
6. Don’t take anything from an archeological site
7. Don’t point at the moon with your finger
8. Never joke about religious issues
9. Don’t ever hit your parents
10. Never ever do the Nazi greeting
11. The burning flag is a serious issue
12. Don’t eat pork or shellfish
13. Don’t compare with Americans
14. Don’t call Cyrillic the “Russian alphabet”
David Baker
 Traditionally Japan has a very conservation culture and life in Japan all about respect. Americans will find this taboo in Japanese culture hard to follow, since, in their country, they can mention just about any body part as loud as the voice can carry. If you must mention genitals during a conversation in Japan, simply say Asoko. It is a default way of calling those parts of either gender and won’t get you in trouble. 2. Restrictions between males and females
In all the Middle East countries’ culture, it is a serious issue to touch a female you are not related to. If you’re a man, no matter how happy you are, don’t go giving handshakes to women in the Middle East. It’s against the middle eastern cultural taboos. You also can’t be in the same elevator with women; they will naturally walk out when you come in.

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World - Bright Freak

List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
List of 14 Interesting Taboos Around the World
Table of Contents
Interesting Taboos Around the World:
1. You cannot call a genital by its actual name
2. Restrictions between males and females
3. Never ask about a person’s income
4. Don’t drink until eye contact
5. Don’t whistle when you’re indoors
6. Don’t take anything from an archeological site
7. Don’t point at the moon with your finger
8. Never joke about religious issues
9. Don’t ever hit your parents
10. Never ever do the Nazi greeting
11. The burning flag is a serious issue
12. Don’t eat pork or shellfish
13. Don’t compare with Americans
14. Don’t call Cyrillic the “Russian alphabet”
David Baker

Traditionally Japan has a very conservation culture and life in Japan all about respect. Americans will find this taboo in Japanese culture hard to follow, since, in their country, they can mention just about any body part as loud as the voice can carry. If you must mention genitals during a conversation in Japan, simply say Asoko. It is a default way of calling those parts of either gender and won’t get you in trouble. 2. Restrictions between males and females
In all the Middle East countries’ culture, it is a serious issue to touch a female you are not related to. If you’re a man, no matter how happy you are, don’t go giving handshakes to women in the Middle East. It’s against the middle eastern cultural taboos. You also can’t be in the same elevator with women; they will naturally walk out when you come in.

20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology 20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew
1. Chopsticks
2. Bowing
3. Bathroom Slippers
4. Anime
5. Slurping Noodles
6. Eating Sushi
7. Chankonabe
8. Onsen Etiquette
9. Literacy
10. Fugu
11. Morning Exercise
12. Sitting Seiza
13. Colds and Allergies
14. Bathing
15. Walking While Eating or Smoking
16. Coffee
17. Geisha
18. Pouring Drinks
19. Oshibori
20. Non-Verbal Communication
 Yet it remains an expensive and sought-after delicacy in Japan. Chefs must train for a minimum of three years before undertaking an examination to legally cook and serve it. 11. Morning Exercise
Photo by Justin C. via Flickr
Health is important to Japanese culture and the country’s tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that’s been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold.

Yet it remains an expensive and sought-after delicacy in Japan. Chefs must train for a minimum of three years before undertaking an examination to legally cook and serve it. 11. Morning Exercise
Photo by Justin C. via Flickr
Health is important to Japanese culture and the country’s tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that’s been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly. 12. Sitting Seiza
Photo by kasashine via Flickr
Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold.

15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World | Chef Tariq 15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World
15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World
1. Let People Feed You in Ethiopia 🇪🇹
2. Make Sure to Get Naked in Iceland 🇮🇸
3. When Meeting People in Japan, Tell Them Your Age 🇯🇵
4. Do All the Talking With Your Mouth in Turkey 🇹🇷
5. Giving Gifts in China Can Get You into Trouble 🇨🇳
6. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head in Malaysia 🇲🇾
7. Use Both Hands in South Korea 🇰🇷
8. Keep Your Feet on the Ground in the Middle East 🇯🇴
9. Keep a Knife and Fork in Your Hands in Chile 🇨🇱
10. Don’t Make a Toast With Your Wine in Georgia 🇬🇪
11. Don’t Show Up on Time for Dinner in Tanzania 🇹🇿
12. Never Put a Fork in Your Mouth in Thailand 🇹🇭
13. Pucker Up Your Lips in Nicaragua 🇳🇮
14. Go Hang Out in the Cemetery in Denmark 🇩🇰
15. Throw a Tomato at Someone in Spain 🇪🇸
General Dos and Don’ts
Hello! I'm Chef Tariq.
Hello! I’m Chef Tariq.
About Chef Tariq →
 You should be safe with a gift of fruit, tea, or even alcohol. 6. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head in Malaysia 🇲🇾
Especially babies, and don’t touch the head of an adult either, just better to hold back on that impulse. Pointing is also considered rude in Malaysia, where directions are normally given with an open hand. 7. Use Both Hands in South Korea 🇰🇷
Use both hands when handing things to other people, whether your business card, or especially money. 8. Keep Your Feet on the Ground in the Middle East 🇯🇴
It is considered very rude to show people the soles of your feet, or even point them in their direction. Be very careful when you sit with your legs crossed. 9.

15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World | Chef Tariq

15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World
15 Fascinating Cultural Differences Around The World
1. Let People Feed You in Ethiopia 🇪🇹
2. Make Sure to Get Naked in Iceland 🇮🇸
3. When Meeting People in Japan, Tell Them Your Age 🇯🇵
4. Do All the Talking With Your Mouth in Turkey 🇹🇷
5. Giving Gifts in China Can Get You into Trouble 🇨🇳
6. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head in Malaysia 🇲🇾
7. Use Both Hands in South Korea 🇰🇷
8. Keep Your Feet on the Ground in the Middle East 🇯🇴
9. Keep a Knife and Fork in Your Hands in Chile 🇨🇱
10. Don’t Make a Toast With Your Wine in Georgia 🇬🇪
11. Don’t Show Up on Time for Dinner in Tanzania 🇹🇿
12. Never Put a Fork in Your Mouth in Thailand 🇹🇭
13. Pucker Up Your Lips in Nicaragua 🇳🇮
14. Go Hang Out in the Cemetery in Denmark 🇩🇰
15. Throw a Tomato at Someone in Spain 🇪🇸
General Dos and Don’ts
Hello! I'm Chef Tariq.
Hello! I’m Chef Tariq.
About Chef Tariq →

You should be safe with a gift of fruit, tea, or even alcohol. 6. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head in Malaysia 🇲🇾
Especially babies, and don’t touch the head of an adult either, just better to hold back on that impulse. Pointing is also considered rude in Malaysia, where directions are normally given with an open hand. 7. Use Both Hands in South Korea 🇰🇷
Use both hands when handing things to other people, whether your business card, or especially money. 8. Keep Your Feet on the Ground in the Middle East 🇯🇴
It is considered very rude to show people the soles of your feet, or even point them in their direction. Be very careful when you sit with your legs crossed. 9.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice
 We tend to assume that if someone looks away while we are talking to them, they’re disinterested and looking for someone else to talk to. In many Middle Eastern countries, same-gender eye contact tends to be more sustained and intense than the western standard. In some of these countries, eye contact beyond a brief glance between the sexes is deemed inappropriate. In many Asian, African, and Latin American countries, however, this unbroken eye contact would be considered aggressive and confrontational. These cultures tend to be quite conscious of hierarchy, and avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect for bosses and elders. In these parts of the world, children won’t look at an adult who is speaking to them, and nor will employees to their bosses. Eye contact variation by culture: Used a lot in regions such as the Middle East, Mediterranean cultures, Europeans and Latin Americans. Used often in much of Northern Europe and North America
Used somewhat carefully in cultures in Africa, Middle East, Korea and Thailand
Used carefully in most of the Far East
Moving your head
In some parts of India, people tilt their head from side to side to confirm something and demonstrate that they are actively listening. The side to side head movement originates from British occupation, as the occupied Indian people were afraid to ever gesture ‘no’ to soldiers but wanted to show signs of understanding.

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of

Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Cultural Differences in Body Language to be Aware of
Greetings with a handshake
Facial expressions
Hand gestures
Eye contact
Eye contact variation by culture:
Moving your head
Touch
Physical contact variation by culture:
Sitting positions
Silence
Gender
Conclusion
Popular travel location etiquette guides:
More Non-Verbal Communication Articles
Improve through realistic practice

We tend to assume that if someone looks away while we are talking to them, they’re disinterested and looking for someone else to talk to. In many Middle Eastern countries, same-gender eye contact tends to be more sustained and intense than the western standard. In some of these countries, eye contact beyond a brief glance between the sexes is deemed inappropriate. In many Asian, African, and Latin American countries, however, this unbroken eye contact would be considered aggressive and confrontational. These cultures tend to be quite conscious of hierarchy, and avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect for bosses and elders. In these parts of the world, children won’t look at an adult who is speaking to them, and nor will employees to their bosses. Eye contact variation by culture: Used a lot in regions such as the Middle East, Mediterranean cultures, Europeans and Latin Americans. Used often in much of Northern Europe and North America
Used somewhat carefully in cultures in Africa, Middle East, Korea and Thailand
Used carefully in most of the Far East
Moving your head
In some parts of India, people tilt their head from side to side to confirm something and demonstrate that they are actively listening. The side to side head movement originates from British occupation, as the occupied Indian people were afraid to ever gesture ‘no’ to soldiers but wanted to show signs of understanding.

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures - Businesstopia Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Eye Contact
Gestures
Touch
Appearance
Body Movement and Posture
Facial Expressions
Paralanguage
Physical Space (Proxemics)
 Other cultures such as Asian, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Native American do not take it as a good expression. It is taken as a rude and offensive expression. Unlike in Western cultures taking it as respectful, other do not consider it that way. In Eastern cultures women should especially not have eye contact with men as it shows power or sexual interest. In some cultures, whereas, gazes are taken as a way of expression. Staring is taken as rude in most cultures. Gestures
Gestures such as thumbs up can be interpreted differently in different cultures. It is taken as “Okay” sign in many cultures whereas is taken as a vulgarism in others like Latin American cultures and in Japan some even take it as money. Some cultures take snapping fingers to get the attention of a waiter as alright whereas some take it as disrespect and very offensive. Showing feet is taken as offensive in some Middle Eastern cultures.

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures - Businesstopia

Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Non-verbal Communication in Different Cultures
Eye Contact
Gestures
Touch
Appearance
Body Movement and Posture
Facial Expressions
Paralanguage
Physical Space (Proxemics)

Other cultures such as Asian, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Native American do not take it as a good expression. It is taken as a rude and offensive expression. Unlike in Western cultures taking it as respectful, other do not consider it that way. In Eastern cultures women should especially not have eye contact with men as it shows power or sexual interest. In some cultures, whereas, gazes are taken as a way of expression. Staring is taken as rude in most cultures. Gestures
Gestures such as thumbs up can be interpreted differently in different cultures. It is taken as “Okay” sign in many cultures whereas is taken as a vulgarism in others like Latin American cultures and in Japan some even take it as money. Some cultures take snapping fingers to get the attention of a waiter as alright whereas some take it as disrespect and very offensive. Showing feet is taken as offensive in some Middle Eastern cultures.

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries | Best Life 15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
1
Wearing shoes indoors
2
Bull horns
3
Eating with your left hand
4
Tipping
5
Putting out the palm of your hand
6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
8
Not finishing your food
9
Thumbs up
10
Blowing your nose in public
11
Crossing your fingers
12
Running late
13
Beckoning with your hand
14
Laughing with your mouth open
15
Sipping your alcohol
 4
Tipping
As confounding as many Americans find the practice to be, there's no denying that tipping is expected at pretty much every bar and non-self-serve restaurant in the United States. However, despite the ubiquity of tipping stateside, it can be perceived as offensive in other countries, namely Korea and Japan, where servers are paid a standard wage. Anything given in addition to that amount in the form of a tip can be seen as a sign you think workers need more incentive to do their job. 5
Putting out the palm of your hand
Shutterstock
If you put your hand out, palm-first, in the United States, that's a good indication you're trying to get someone to stop what they're doing (or perhaps making a reference to '90s "talk to the hand" slang). If you're traveling through Pakistan or Greece, however, it's probably in your best interest to keep this gesture to yourself, as it's interpreted as aggressive to residents of these countries. 6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
Shutterstock
While keeping your hands in your pockets may seem like an easy way to avoid inadvertently offending others, in some countries, doing so may get you in trouble. If you're traveling in Japan or Korea, specifically, keeping your hands in your pockets is often seen as a sign of arrogance. In September 2018, Monty Python star Michael Palin found this out the hard way when he was forced to reshoot scenes from his documentary, Michael Palin in North Korea, because he had his hands in his pockets while standing near North Korean monuments, a gesture deemed disrespectful by locals. And for more ways to avoid offending others, check out these 40 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss. 7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
Shutterstock
In the United States, the front passenger seat of a taxi is typically regarded as the driver's domain, a safe place to store their possessions far from passengers' prying eyes.

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries | Best Life

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
1
Wearing shoes indoors
2
Bull horns
3
Eating with your left hand
4
Tipping
5
Putting out the palm of your hand
6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
8
Not finishing your food
9
Thumbs up
10
Blowing your nose in public
11
Crossing your fingers
12
Running late
13
Beckoning with your hand
14
Laughing with your mouth open
15
Sipping your alcohol

Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
16+ Essential Japanese Gestures, Plus Body Language to Avoid
Why Learn Japanese Gestures?
Gestures and Body Language to Avoid in Japan
Looking people in the eye too much
Spreading out arms and legs
Slouching and hands in pockets
Crossing your arms
Pointing
Show Me What You Mean! 16+ Japanese Gestures
The King of Gestures: Bowing
1. The “right” way to bow
Look at the ground and bend from the waist, pause for a moment, then stand up straight.
2. Giving and receiving gifts
Yes, No and Not Sure
3. Yes/okay
4. No
5. I don’t know/excuse me
Gesturing to People
6. Referring to yourself
7. Referring to others
8. Beckoning
Counting
9. Counting on your fingers in Japanese
Expressing Feelings
10. Anger
11. Embarrassment
12. Gratitude
13. Determination
More Japanese Gestures!
14. Calling dibs
15. Let’s eat/let’s drink
16. Peace sign
FluentU - Learn a Language with Real World Videos!
 Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed. If you cross your arms during a conversation with a Japanese person you don’t know very well, they may take that as a signal that you don’t want to talk. However, crossing arms with eyes closed shows that you’re thinking deeply about something, which in some conversations is just right! Pointing
Don’t do it. Like staring someone in the eyes, it comes across as too strong, and potentially aggressive. Even if you’re giving directions or gesturing towards an object, you should gently indicate direction with an open palm.

Drunk, sleeping salarymen aside, in Japan it’s considered really bad form to take up more space than you need, especially on public transport. And while we’re on the topic of public transport, the people of Tokyo request that you speak quietly and avoid talking on the phone, and always stand up to give seating room to the elderly and people with children! Slouching and hands in pockets
It may be the most comfortable way to stand, but in Japan leaning languorously against a wall with your hands in your pockets is considered to look lazy and messy. Just as it does in the English-speaking world, good posture shows that you’re alert and paying attention. Crossing your arms
This is considered a hostile position, and it’s unlikely that anybody will approach you for a chat if you’re standing with your arms crossed. If you cross your arms during a conversation with a Japanese person you don’t know very well, they may take that as a signal that you don’t want to talk. However, crossing arms with eyes closed shows that you’re thinking deeply about something, which in some conversations is just right! Pointing
Don’t do it. Like staring someone in the eyes, it comes across as too strong, and potentially aggressive. Even if you’re giving directions or gesturing towards an object, you should gently indicate direction with an open palm.

15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries | Best Life 15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
15 American Habits That Are Offensive in Other Countries
1
Wearing shoes indoors
2
Bull horns
3
Eating with your left hand
4
Tipping
5
Putting out the palm of your hand
6
Keeping your hands in your pockets
7
Taking the back seat in a taxi
8
Not finishing your food
9
Thumbs up
10
Blowing your nose in public
11
Crossing your fingers
12
Running late
13
Beckoning with your hand
14
Laughing with your mouth open
15
Sipping your alcohol
 So, before you accidentally become the inadvertent source of someone else's wrath, make sure you're well-acquainted with all of the American habits that are offensive in other countries. And to avoid embarrassment at home or overseas, ditch these 20 Things You're Saying You Didn't Know Were Offensive. 1
Wearing shoes indoors
Shutterstock
While keeping your outdoor shoes on when you go inside may not raise any eyebrows in the United States, it may offend your host if you're traveling abroad. In countries like Germany, Austria, Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Japan, Turkey, Israel, and other parts of the Middle East and Asia, wearing your shoes inside is not only considered poor manners, but unhygienic, as well. And for more ways to stay on the right side of your foreign friends, avoid these 15 American Words That Are Offensive in Other Countries. 2
Bull horns
In most of America, raising your first and pinky finger to emulate a bull's horns is generally accepted to mean "rock on," and is commonly displayed by concert attendees. However, make this gesture in Italy, Spain, Portugal, and parts of South America, and you're likely to get an earful—in these countries, this hand symbol is used to indicate to a man that his wife is being unfaithful. 3
Eating with your left hand
Shutterstock
If you're at a restaurant in the United States, it's unlikely that anyone will question which hand you choose to eat that burger or slice of pizza from. If you're in India and parts of the Middle East, a person's right hand is traditionally used to consume food, whereas their left hand is generally used to attend to bodily functions, rendering it unsuitable to be used at the dinner table. And for more dining behaviors to avoid, check out these 25 Things You Should Never Do at a Fancy Restaurant.

Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It - SpeakUp resources Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It
Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It
Faux Pas Meaning & Origin
Faux On Its Own
How to Pronounce Faux Pas
Examples of Social Mistakes
Cultural Mistakes
Greetings
Gestures
Reverence
How to Use Faux Pas in a Sentence
Synonyms
Conclusion
Matthew Jones
 Alternatively, bowing is considered a sign of respect in Japan and some other Asian countries, but in most other countries it would seem completely out of place! Gestures
Sometimes, the same gesture can mean something totally different based on your location. In the United States and many western countries, the “thumbs-up” gesture can mean “OK” or “good job.” However, in countries like Iraq, Iran, or Russia, it is considered a rude gesture! Reverence
Showing reverence (deep respect) for different things is very important in many countries. For example, in the United States, people are expected to respect the national flag by not allowing it to touch the ground. In China and Japan, you’re expected to take your shoes off before entering a sacred place (like a temple) or someone’s home. In Thailand, touching someone’s head is a huge sign of disrespect and a major faux pas! These are just a few social mistakes from different countries, but in reality, there are thousands of cultural slip-ups out there. So, the next time you travel, make sure to research what you should and shouldn’t do at your destination!

Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It - SpeakUp resources

Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It
Faux Pas Meaning & How to Use It
Faux Pas Meaning & Origin
Faux On Its Own
How to Pronounce Faux Pas
Examples of Social Mistakes
Cultural Mistakes
Greetings
Gestures
Reverence
How to Use Faux Pas in a Sentence
Synonyms
Conclusion
Matthew Jones

Alternatively, bowing is considered a sign of respect in Japan and some other Asian countries, but in most other countries it would seem completely out of place! Gestures
Sometimes, the same gesture can mean something totally different based on your location. In the United States and many western countries, the “thumbs-up” gesture can mean “OK” or “good job.” However, in countries like Iraq, Iran, or Russia, it is considered a rude gesture! Reverence
Showing reverence (deep respect) for different things is very important in many countries. For example, in the United States, people are expected to respect the national flag by not allowing it to touch the ground. In China and Japan, you’re expected to take your shoes off before entering a sacred place (like a temple) or someone’s home. In Thailand, touching someone’s head is a huge sign of disrespect and a major faux pas! These are just a few social mistakes from different countries, but in reality, there are thousands of cultural slip-ups out there. So, the next time you travel, make sure to research what you should and shouldn’t do at your destination!

Reading Body Language: What Hand Signals & Gestures Mean in Other Countries - Thrillist 8 Common American Gestures That'll Confuse the Sh*t Out of People Overseas
8 Common American Gestures That'll Confuse the Sh*t Out of People Overseas
Hand gestures and their meanings vary
Keep your hands out of your pockets
Even nodding can trip you up
Japan is particular about handing off gifts
How long to hold someone's gaze
Don't automatically offer to shake hands
When "talk to the hand" means something even ruder
Don't walk into homes in Asia with your shoes on
Don't give just anyone a thumbs-up
 Likewise, don't prop your feet on chairs or any other furniture. In places like Japan, you remove your shoes at the door and slip into house slippers, but this custom isn't just for someone's house. You need to remove your shoes before going into some traditional shops, places with tatami (straw) mats, and shrines. By extension, showing someone the soles of your feet -- considered a filthy part of the body -- could offend any friends you make in Thailand. Don't give just anyone a thumbs-up
A natural response to someone saying or doing something cool is a thumbs-up. But in some parts of the world, such as West Africa and the Middle East, you're saying "up yours." In Thailand, a thumbs-up is like sticking out your tongue. Obviously, neither is (probably) the message you want to convey, so the best rule of thumb here is to keep that fifth digit in check. Unless -- hey, this is up to you -- you need a quick way to convey that specific meaning, perhaps with a smile, and maybe even get away with it. You're just a tourist, after all, and probably don't even know what it means.

Reading Body Language: What Hand Signals & Gestures Mean in Other Countries - Thrillist

8 Common American Gestures That'll Confuse the Sh*t Out of People Overseas
8 Common American Gestures That'll Confuse the Sh*t Out of People Overseas
Hand gestures and their meanings vary
Keep your hands out of your pockets
Even nodding can trip you up
Japan is particular about handing off gifts
How long to hold someone's gaze
Don't automatically offer to shake hands
When "talk to the hand" means something even ruder
Don't walk into homes in Asia with your shoes on
Don't give just anyone a thumbs-up

Likewise, don't prop your feet on chairs or any other furniture. In places like Japan, you remove your shoes at the door and slip into house slippers, but this custom isn't just for someone's house. You need to remove your shoes before going into some traditional shops, places with tatami (straw) mats, and shrines. By extension, showing someone the soles of your feet -- considered a filthy part of the body -- could offend any friends you make in Thailand. Don't give just anyone a thumbs-up
A natural response to someone saying or doing something cool is a thumbs-up. But in some parts of the world, such as West Africa and the Middle East, you're saying "up yours." In Thailand, a thumbs-up is like sticking out your tongue. Obviously, neither is (probably) the message you want to convey, so the best rule of thumb here is to keep that fifth digit in check. Unless -- hey, this is up to you -- you need a quick way to convey that specific meaning, perhaps with a smile, and maybe even get away with it. You're just a tourist, after all, and probably don't even know what it means.

12 Japanese Words You Need To Know For Karate | The Martial Way
OSU!
Archives
 It is used in all schools to address teachers and professors, as well as professionals such as lawyers, doctors, politicians, and other figures of authority. The word is also used to show respect to someone who has achieved a certain level of mastery in an art form or some other skill: accomplished novelists, musicians, artists and martial artists. 3. Seiza (正座 or 正坐) – [say za] literally means “proper sitting” and is the Japanese term for one of the traditional formal ways of kneeling in Japan. To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees.

12 Japanese Words You Need To Know For Karate | The Martial Way

It is used in all schools to address teachers and professors, as well as professionals such as lawyers, doctors, politicians, and other figures of authority. The word is also used to show respect to someone who has achieved a certain level of mastery in an art form or some other skill: accomplished novelists, musicians, artists and martial artists. 3. Seiza (正座 or 正坐) – [say za] literally means “proper sitting” and is the Japanese term for one of the traditional formal ways of kneeling in Japan. To sit seiza-style in Kyokushin, one must first be kneeling on the floor, folding one’s legs underneath one’s thighs, while resting the buttocks on the heels. The ankles are turned outward as the tops of the feet are lowered so that, in a slight “V” shape, the tops of the feet are flat on the floor and big toes sometimes are overlapped, and the buttocks are finally lowered all the way down. Within Kyokushin the fists are placed on the upper thigh. The back is kept straight, though not unnaturally stiff. Traditionally, women sit with the knees together while men separate them slightly, roughly two fist widths of distance between the knees.

American Customs That Are Offensive Abroad 25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose
 Eating a banana on the bus? Ice cream outside? All no-nos. 18. Telling people to help themselves
While you think you're being a host extraordinaire by opening up your home to someone and essentially telling them to feel right at home, in some cultures (like in Asia) this hands-off approach is uncomfortable. To them, hosting guests is a little more involved. 19. Touching
Americans are notoriously friendly, but hugging and touching others, even if only on the arm, is offensive in places like China, Thailand, Korea, and the Middle East. Respect that personal space varies from country to country. 20.

25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
25 common American customs that are considered offensive in other countries
1. Tipping
2. Sitting in the back of a cab
3. Throwing a thumbs-up
4. Laughing with your mouth open
5. Calling the USA "America"
6. Being fashionably late
7. Being on time
8. Having one hand in your pocket
9. Using your left hand for anything
10. Opening a present immediately
11. Wearing sweatpants, flip flops, wrinkly clothing, or baseball caps in public
12. Altering your meal
13. Showing the soles of your feet
14. Keeping your shoes on
15. Drinking someone else's alcohol
16. Men showing some skin
17. Eating anywhere that doesn't serve food
18. Telling people to help themselves
19. Touching
20. Keeping your clothes on in saunas and steam rooms
21. Asking certain questions
22. Refusing food
23. Not declining gifts
24. Polishing off your meal
25. Blowing Your Nose

Eating a banana on the bus? Ice cream outside? All no-nos. 18. Telling people to help themselves
While you think you're being a host extraordinaire by opening up your home to someone and essentially telling them to feel right at home, in some cultures (like in Asia) this hands-off approach is uncomfortable. To them, hosting guests is a little more involved. 19. Touching
Americans are notoriously friendly, but hugging and touching others, even if only on the arm, is offensive in places like China, Thailand, Korea, and the Middle East. Respect that personal space varies from country to country. 20.

10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad | HuffPost Life 10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad
10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad
Certain gestures that are innocent in the United States mean something completely different (and offensive) overseas.
Peace Sign With Palm Facing Inward
Thumbs-Up
The OK
Finger Summoning
Left Hand
Stop
Fingers Crossed
Devil Horns
Arm Wave
Pat on the Head
 Finger Summoning
Want someone to come over to you? Definitely don't use your curled index finger to summon them in the Philippines -- that's reserved for calling dogs and is considered very rude. And in Singapore and Japan, that motion signifies death, so unless you are the icy hand of death yourself, don't employ it. Avoid Using In: The Philippines, Singapore, and Japan. Left Hand
Sorry, southpaws. You'll need to become ambidextrous -- or just accept the fact that you'll probably spill food all over yourself while eating with your right hand -- while in the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa. In these countries, the left hand is traditionally seen as unclean, because it is associated with cleaning yourself after using the bathroom. Avoid Using In: The Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa.

10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad | HuffPost Life

10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad
10 Innocent Hand Gestures You Should Never Use Abroad
Certain gestures that are innocent in the United States mean something completely different (and offensive) overseas.
Peace Sign With Palm Facing Inward
Thumbs-Up
The OK
Finger Summoning
Left Hand
Stop
Fingers Crossed
Devil Horns
Arm Wave
Pat on the Head

Finger Summoning
Want someone to come over to you? Definitely don't use your curled index finger to summon them in the Philippines -- that's reserved for calling dogs and is considered very rude. And in Singapore and Japan, that motion signifies death, so unless you are the icy hand of death yourself, don't employ it. Avoid Using In: The Philippines, Singapore, and Japan. Left Hand
Sorry, southpaws. You'll need to become ambidextrous -- or just accept the fact that you'll probably spill food all over yourself while eating with your right hand -- while in the Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa. In these countries, the left hand is traditionally seen as unclean, because it is associated with cleaning yourself after using the bathroom. Avoid Using In: The Middle East, India, Sri Lanka, and Africa.

Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries | Reader's Digest 10 Common Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries
10 Common Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries
Just as slang words, table manners, and other common customs vary greatly from nation to nation, so do rude gestures. Here are some surprising hand motions you'll want to be careful about making in certain countries.
Some handy precautions
Iran: Thumbs-up
United Kingdom: Backwards peace sign
Malaysia: Pointing with your index finger
Brazil: The “OK” sign
Italy and Spain: “Hang loose” (or the “rock on” sign)
Thailand: Touching someone’s head
India, many Middle Eastern countries: Using your left hand
Italy: The chin flick
Taiwan: Pointing at the moon
The Philippines: A beckoning motion
Etiquette Rules from Around the World
Secrets Your Body Language Reveals About You
I Moved Back to the U.S. After Living in Europe for 8 Years
Popular Videos
Meghan Jones
 Touching someone’s head
In the United States, patting someone’s head (especially that of a baby or little kid) can be a sweet, loving gesture, and ruffling someone’s hair is a playful one (that perhaps could offend a particularly vain person). But in Thailand, it can be a serious offense, Nantes says. The head “is considered the most sacred part of the body,” she explains. So keep your hands away from others’ heads to avoid disrespecting or soiling this cleanliness. Likewise, the feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body, so “pointing with the toe of your foot is insulting in Thailand,” she adds, saying that this rule applies in some other southeastern Asian countries as well. India, many Middle Eastern countries: Using your left hand
While in the United States, you’ll find no shortage of lefty pride, southpaws will want to be careful about using their left hand as they normally would should they travel to India or the Middle East. Why? Well, because there, the right and the left hands have specifically designated tasks. “ The right hand…is used for eating, passing money, or picking up items for purchase,” explains Emily Mosby, intercultural agility trainer and author of Mosby Global LLC.

Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries | Reader's Digest

10 Common Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries
10 Common Hand Gestures That Are Rude in Other Countries
Just as slang words, table manners, and other common customs vary greatly from nation to nation, so do rude gestures. Here are some surprising hand motions you'll want to be careful about making in certain countries.
Some handy precautions
Iran: Thumbs-up
United Kingdom: Backwards peace sign
Malaysia: Pointing with your index finger
Brazil: The “OK” sign
Italy and Spain: “Hang loose” (or the “rock on” sign)
Thailand: Touching someone’s head
India, many Middle Eastern countries: Using your left hand
Italy: The chin flick
Taiwan: Pointing at the moon
The Philippines: A beckoning motion
Etiquette Rules from Around the World
Secrets Your Body Language Reveals About You
I Moved Back to the U.S. After Living in Europe for 8 Years
Popular Videos
Meghan Jones

Touching someone’s head
In the United States, patting someone’s head (especially that of a baby or little kid) can be a sweet, loving gesture, and ruffling someone’s hair is a playful one (that perhaps could offend a particularly vain person). But in Thailand, it can be a serious offense, Nantes says. The head “is considered the most sacred part of the body,” she explains. So keep your hands away from others’ heads to avoid disrespecting or soiling this cleanliness. Likewise, the feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body, so “pointing with the toe of your foot is insulting in Thailand,” she adds, saying that this rule applies in some other southeastern Asian countries as well. India, many Middle Eastern countries: Using your left hand
While in the United States, you’ll find no shortage of lefty pride, southpaws will want to be careful about using their left hand as they normally would should they travel to India or the Middle East. Why? Well, because there, the right and the left hands have specifically designated tasks. “ The right hand…is used for eating, passing money, or picking up items for purchase,” explains Emily Mosby, intercultural agility trainer and author of Mosby Global LLC.

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia Bowing in Japan
Bowing in Japan
Contents
History
In the business world
Eshaku
Keirei
Saikeirei
Zarei
Saikeirei (zarei version)
Futsūrei
Senrei
In various activities
Kendo
Shinto shrine visits
Funerals
The tea ceremony
When to bow
How to bow
See also
References
Bibliography
External links
 At the bowing position, one's gaze should rest on the floor approximately 1 meter in front of his feet. Possible scenarios for its usage include greeting clients, entering a meeting and thanking superiors at work. Saikeirei
Finally, saikeirei (最敬礼), which literally means "the most respectful gesture", is, as the name suggests, the ojigi that shows the uttermost respect towards the other party. It is mostly used when greeting very important personnel, apologizing or asking for big favors. Saikeirei is characterized by an even deeper inclination of one's upper body than keirei, typically somewhere from 45° to 70°. Additionally, as saikeirei is only used in grave situations, one is expected to stay still at the bowing position for a relatively long time to show one's respect and sincerity. In terms of hand positions, men should keep them naturally at both sides of their legs, whereas women often place one hand on top of the other in the center somewhere below their abdomen. Zarei
See also: Seiza
People performing zarei in martial arts arena
Zarei is a bowing etiquette unique to East Asia, which involves bending one's upper body at kneeling, or seiza, position on traditional Japanese style tatami floors. With the Westernization of indoor decoration and lifestyles,

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia

Bowing in Japan
Bowing in Japan
Contents
History
In the business world
Eshaku
Keirei
Saikeirei
Zarei
Saikeirei (zarei version)
Futsūrei
Senrei
In various activities
Kendo
Shinto shrine visits
Funerals
The tea ceremony
When to bow
How to bow
See also
References
Bibliography
External links

At the bowing position, one's gaze should rest on the floor approximately 1 meter in front of his feet. Possible scenarios for its usage include greeting clients, entering a meeting and thanking superiors at work. Saikeirei
Finally, saikeirei (最敬礼), which literally means "the most respectful gesture", is, as the name suggests, the ojigi that shows the uttermost respect towards the other party. It is mostly used when greeting very important personnel, apologizing or asking for big favors. Saikeirei is characterized by an even deeper inclination of one's upper body than keirei, typically somewhere from 45° to 70°. Additionally, as saikeirei is only used in grave situations, one is expected to stay still at the bowing position for a relatively long time to show one's respect and sincerity. In terms of hand positions, men should keep them naturally at both sides of their legs, whereas women often place one hand on top of the other in the center somewhere below their abdomen. Zarei
See also: Seiza
People performing zarei in martial arts arena
Zarei is a bowing etiquette unique to East Asia, which involves bending one's upper body at kneeling, or seiza, position on traditional Japanese style tatami floors. With the Westernization of indoor decoration and lifestyles,

Japanese profanity - Wikipedia Japanese profanity
Japanese profanity
Contents
Language-based profanity
Pronouns and suffixes
Honorific language
Bowing
Sex
Male profanities
Female profanities
Neutral profanities
Insults
Common Japanese insults
Stupidity
Personality/people
Racial euphemisms
Homosexuality
References
 The potential form of this is 聞こえる kikoeru, and the corresponding negative form is 聞こえない kikoenai. The polite conjugation of the negative potential plain form is then 聞こえません kikoemasen, as seen in the example (1). In example (3) the speaker has chosen to use the plain form 聞こえない kikoenai, and this indicates a disregard for the social hierarchical status of Ms Ishiyama over the speaker. Japanese women dressed in kimono bowing to each other in formal greeting in a tatami room
Bowing
Bowing was introduced into Japanese culture c. 500–800 BCE, possibly alongside the introduction of Chinese Buddhism into the country. Bowing when greeting another person has become a large part of Japanese culture and there are specific customs that are followed to show humility and respect in situations including business meetings, formal occasions, and day-to-day interactions. When performing a standing bow (正立 seiritsu) to another Japanese speaker, the individual's back should remain straight, with their hands by their side, and eyes averted to the ground. From sitting, the individual should be seated on their knees (正座 seiza) with their hands forming a triangle on the floor in front of them, and head moving towards the hands. The bow does not need to be held for extended time, however the action should not be rushed either. The speed in which the bow is performed, as a result, can infer levels of politeness or rudeness. The depth of the bow performed by an individual changes the meaning of the bow.

Japanese profanity - Wikipedia

Japanese profanity
Japanese profanity
Contents
Language-based profanity
Pronouns and suffixes
Honorific language
Bowing
Sex
Male profanities
Female profanities
Neutral profanities
Insults
Common Japanese insults
Stupidity
Personality/people
Racial euphemisms
Homosexuality
References

The potential form of this is 聞こえる kikoeru, and the corresponding negative form is 聞こえない kikoenai. The polite conjugation of the negative potential plain form is then 聞こえません kikoemasen, as seen in the example (1). In example (3) the speaker has chosen to use the plain form 聞こえない kikoenai, and this indicates a disregard for the social hierarchical status of Ms Ishiyama over the speaker. Japanese women dressed in kimono bowing to each other in formal greeting in a tatami room
Bowing
Bowing was introduced into Japanese culture c. 500–800 BCE, possibly alongside the introduction of Chinese Buddhism into the country. Bowing when greeting another person has become a large part of Japanese culture and there are specific customs that are followed to show humility and respect in situations including business meetings, formal occasions, and day-to-day interactions. When performing a standing bow (正立 seiritsu) to another Japanese speaker, the individual's back should remain straight, with their hands by their side, and eyes averted to the ground. From sitting, the individual should be seated on their knees (正座 seiza) with their hands forming a triangle on the floor in front of them, and head moving towards the hands. The bow does not need to be held for extended time, however the action should not be rushed either. The speed in which the bow is performed, as a result, can infer levels of politeness or rudeness. The depth of the bow performed by an individual changes the meaning of the bow.

9 Japanese Traditions You Need to Know | Japanese Culture 9 Japanese Traditions
9 Japanese Traditions
1. No Tipping in Japan
2. Onsen Etiquette
3. Shugi Bukuro
4. Eating on the go in Japan…
5. Summer Matsuri Clothes
6. Zabuton Throwing
7. Setsubun
8. Dondo Yaki
9. Gift-giving
What is the Japanese Tanabata Festival?
Shibori Dyeing Techniques
 It is very disrespectful to walk and eat in Japan, and often simply in public spaces. Here, the idea of ‘ ikkai ichi dōsa ‘ or ‘one thing at a time’ is very important. If you buy something at the supermarket, it is best to take it home to eat. If you buy food from a stall in the street, there is often seating provided to eat at. Eating on the sacred grounds of temples and shrines is extremely disrespectful! It is only acceptable during a festival when food stalls are set up – even then, there may be seating to use! I also wouldn’t recommend eating in a station, and definitely not on the train! Luckily, many convenience stores ( konbini) provide a seating area where you can enjoy your melon-pan or kare-man! If you’re looking for a snazzy new way to do lunch-on-the-go, why not check out this traditional Japanese bentō box? Courtesy of Get Hiroshima
5.

9 Japanese Traditions You Need to Know | Japanese Culture

9 Japanese Traditions
9 Japanese Traditions
1. No Tipping in Japan
2. Onsen Etiquette
3. Shugi Bukuro
4. Eating on the go in Japan…
5. Summer Matsuri Clothes
6. Zabuton Throwing
7. Setsubun
8. Dondo Yaki
9. Gift-giving
What is the Japanese Tanabata Festival?
Shibori Dyeing Techniques

It is very disrespectful to walk and eat in Japan, and often simply in public spaces. Here, the idea of ‘ ikkai ichi dōsa ‘ or ‘one thing at a time’ is very important. If you buy something at the supermarket, it is best to take it home to eat. If you buy food from a stall in the street, there is often seating provided to eat at. Eating on the sacred grounds of temples and shrines is extremely disrespectful! It is only acceptable during a festival when food stalls are set up – even then, there may be seating to use! I also wouldn’t recommend eating in a station, and definitely not on the train! Luckily, many convenience stores ( konbini) provide a seating area where you can enjoy your melon-pan or kare-man! If you’re looking for a snazzy new way to do lunch-on-the-go, why not check out this traditional Japanese bentō box? Courtesy of Get Hiroshima
5.

Respect - Wikipedia Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links
 In Islamic cultures around the world, there are many ways to show respect to people. For example, it is recommended to kiss the hands of parents, grandparents and teachers. Also, it is narrated in the sayings of Muhammad that if a person looks at the faces of parents and teachers with a smile, he or she will definitely be rewarded by Allah with success and happiness. In India, it is customary that, out of respect, when a person's foot accidentally touches a book or any written material (considered to be a manifestations of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge) or another person's leg, it will be followed by an apology in the form of a single hand gesture ( Pranāma) with the right hand, where the offending person first touches the object with the finger tips and then the forehead and/or chest. This also counts for money, which is considered to be a manifestation of the goddess of wealth Lakshmi. Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan.

Respect - Wikipedia

Respect
Respect
Contents
Signs and other ways of showing respect
Language
Physical gestures
China
Chinese culture
Respect as a cultural value
Indigenous American culture
See also
References
Further reading
External links

In Islamic cultures around the world, there are many ways to show respect to people. For example, it is recommended to kiss the hands of parents, grandparents and teachers. Also, it is narrated in the sayings of Muhammad that if a person looks at the faces of parents and teachers with a smile, he or she will definitely be rewarded by Allah with success and happiness. In India, it is customary that, out of respect, when a person's foot accidentally touches a book or any written material (considered to be a manifestations of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge) or another person's leg, it will be followed by an apology in the form of a single hand gesture ( Pranāma) with the right hand, where the offending person first touches the object with the finger tips and then the forehead and/or chest. This also counts for money, which is considered to be a manifestation of the goddess of wealth Lakshmi. Pranāma, or the touching of feet in Indian culture is a sign of respect. For instance, when a child is greeting his or her grandparent, they typically will touch their hands to their grandparents' feet. In Indian culture, it is believed that the feet are a source of power and love. In many African/West Indian descent communities and some non-African/West Indian descent communities, respect can be signified by the touching of fists. Many gestures or physical acts that are common in the West can be considered disrespectful in Japan.

The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad | Best Life The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
How to be a better, smarter traveler.
1
Tipping in Japan
2
Wearing your shoes indoors
3
Sitting on a bed in your "outdoor clothing"
4
Kissing or holding hands outside
5
Dressing provocatively
6
Wishing someone a happy birthday before their actual birthday
7
Shaking hands with your left hand
8
Waiting for the rice in China
9
Giving umbrellas or clocks as gifts in China
10
Wearing a bathing suit in a sauna
11
Using the bidet the wrong way
12
Raising your arms to wave in Greece
13
Blowing your nose at the table
14
Failing to notice that your date's wineglass is empty
15
Asking for an Irish Car Bomb in Northern Ireland
16
Taking photos without asking for permission
17
Making the OK sign with your fingers
18
Touching someone's head
19
Talking or eating during a toast
20
Making the "sign of the horns."
21
Giving the lady of the house a bouquet of yellow roses
22
Taking a business card in Japan and immediately putting it in your pocket
23
Forgetting to take off your toilet slippers
24
Making the "peace" sign
25
Arriving on time in China
26
Entering or exiting the room first
27
Pointing with your feet
28
Chewing gum in Singapore
29
Giving a Russian date a bouquet of a dozen roses
30
Giving the thumbs up
Diana Bruk
Filed Under
 Then you must guard it with your life, because how you treat the card symbolizes how you'd treat the person. It's not like the U.S., where you just take one and shove it in your pocket, only to throw it away on laundry day. 23
Forgetting to take off your toilet slippers
In Japan, people often have special slippers to wear when they use the bathroom, but it does not do to wear them once you've done your business and walked out. 24
Making the "peace" sign
Beloved by hippies all over, making a V-sign with your index and middle finger is generally considered to indicate that you are all warm and crunchy granola inside. But in Ireland and the U.K., it's equivalent to flipping someone off. 25
Arriving on time in China
Shutterstock
In China, arriving on time means you're late, so it's good to always show up at least 15 minutes before expected. In a lot of Latin countries, the opposite is true. 26
Entering or exiting the room first
Asian culture has a huge focus on respect toward the elderly, so they are always allowed to exit and enter the room first. Unless you're the oldest one, stay back! 27
Pointing with your feet
Just as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Buddhist cultures, the feet are considered the least sacred, and pointing with them or showing off the soles in Southeast Asia is extremely offensive.

The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad | Best Life

The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
How to be a better, smarter traveler.
1
Tipping in Japan
2
Wearing your shoes indoors
3
Sitting on a bed in your "outdoor clothing"
4
Kissing or holding hands outside
5
Dressing provocatively
6
Wishing someone a happy birthday before their actual birthday
7
Shaking hands with your left hand
8
Waiting for the rice in China
9
Giving umbrellas or clocks as gifts in China
10
Wearing a bathing suit in a sauna
11
Using the bidet the wrong way
12
Raising your arms to wave in Greece
13
Blowing your nose at the table
14
Failing to notice that your date's wineglass is empty
15
Asking for an Irish Car Bomb in Northern Ireland
16
Taking photos without asking for permission
17
Making the OK sign with your fingers
18
Touching someone's head
19
Talking or eating during a toast
20
Making the "sign of the horns."
21
Giving the lady of the house a bouquet of yellow roses
22
Taking a business card in Japan and immediately putting it in your pocket
23
Forgetting to take off your toilet slippers
24
Making the "peace" sign
25
Arriving on time in China
26
Entering or exiting the room first
27
Pointing with your feet
28
Chewing gum in Singapore
29
Giving a Russian date a bouquet of a dozen roses
30
Giving the thumbs up
Diana Bruk
Filed Under

Then you must guard it with your life, because how you treat the card symbolizes how you'd treat the person. It's not like the U.S., where you just take one and shove it in your pocket, only to throw it away on laundry day. 23
Forgetting to take off your toilet slippers
In Japan, people often have special slippers to wear when they use the bathroom, but it does not do to wear them once you've done your business and walked out. 24
Making the "peace" sign
Beloved by hippies all over, making a V-sign with your index and middle finger is generally considered to indicate that you are all warm and crunchy granola inside. But in Ireland and the U.K., it's equivalent to flipping someone off. 25
Arriving on time in China
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In China, arriving on time means you're late, so it's good to always show up at least 15 minutes before expected. In a lot of Latin countries, the opposite is true. 26
Entering or exiting the room first
Asian culture has a huge focus on respect toward the elderly, so they are always allowed to exit and enter the room first. Unless you're the oldest one, stay back! 27
Pointing with your feet
Just as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Buddhist cultures, the feet are considered the least sacred, and pointing with them or showing off the soles in Southeast Asia is extremely offensive.

7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas | Cracked.com 7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
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What you think you are saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm the fuckin' Fonz!" What you are actually saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm going to jam my thumb in your anus!" What the hell? It's not just the Middle East. This seemingly universal gesture is also hideously offensive in West Africa and South America, whose citizens would doubtless get really confused if they ever watched Ebert and Roeper. " This movie is great, Bill!

7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas | Cracked.com

7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
Extend Your Hand, Palm Outward in Greece
Give the Thumbs-Up In The Middle East
Finish Your Meal In Thailand / The Philippines / China
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Give an Even Number of Flowers in Russia
Give a Gift With Your Left Hand, Pretty Much Anywhere
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What you think you are saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm the fuckin' Fonz!" What you are actually saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm going to jam my thumb in your anus!" What the hell? It's not just the Middle East. This seemingly universal gesture is also hideously offensive in West Africa and South America, whose citizens would doubtless get really confused if they ever watched Ebert and Roeper. " This movie is great, Bill!

11 Surprising Customs from Around the World 11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
Pointing with lips in Nicaragua
Kissing in France
Spitting on the bride at weddings in Greece
September 12 is the Day of Conception in Russia
Groundhog Day in the U.S.
Tipping in the U.S.
Hanging out in cemeteries in Denmark
Pointing with the thumb in Malaysia
Slurping in Japan
Kneeling or lying prostrate as greeting in Nigeria
Using the left hand for things
 Instead, it is customary to gesture towards things with the thumb as this is seen as a more polite option. In many countries in Africa, pointing is reserved for inanimate objects only, not people. Slurping in Japan
Most societies around the world have rules about table etiquette. For western cultures, noisily consuming food is considered rude. In Japan, however, making slurping sounds while eating has an entirely different meaning. This might have something to do with the fact that in western countries, noodles are properly consumed by twirling them on a spoon before putting them in the mouth. Meanwhile, the Japanese simply slurp up their noodles without contorting them first, an act that is naturally noisier than the former. Making slurping sounds when eating noodles in Japan is a way of indicating that you’re really enjoying them. Some scientists even argue slurping invites air into the palate and actually enhances the noodles’ flavor. Kevin Whipple / | © Culture Trip
Kneeling or lying prostrate as greeting in Nigeria
For members of the Yoruba people, an ethnic group that largely resides in Nigeria, greeting rituals are taken quite seriously.

11 Surprising Customs from Around the World

11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
Pointing with lips in Nicaragua
Kissing in France
Spitting on the bride at weddings in Greece
September 12 is the Day of Conception in Russia
Groundhog Day in the U.S.
Tipping in the U.S.
Hanging out in cemeteries in Denmark
Pointing with the thumb in Malaysia
Slurping in Japan
Kneeling or lying prostrate as greeting in Nigeria
Using the left hand for things

Instead, it is customary to gesture towards things with the thumb as this is seen as a more polite option. In many countries in Africa, pointing is reserved for inanimate objects only, not people. Slurping in Japan
Most societies around the world have rules about table etiquette. For western cultures, noisily consuming food is considered rude. In Japan, however, making slurping sounds while eating has an entirely different meaning. This might have something to do with the fact that in western countries, noodles are properly consumed by twirling them on a spoon before putting them in the mouth. Meanwhile, the Japanese simply slurp up their noodles without contorting them first, an act that is naturally noisier than the former. Making slurping sounds when eating noodles in Japan is a way of indicating that you’re really enjoying them. Some scientists even argue slurping invites air into the palate and actually enhances the noodles’ flavor. Kevin Whipple / | © Culture Trip
Kneeling or lying prostrate as greeting in Nigeria
For members of the Yoruba people, an ethnic group that largely resides in Nigeria, greeting rituals are taken quite seriously.

7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas | Cracked.com 7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
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Extend Your Hand, Palm Outward in Greece
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Give the Thumbs-Up In The Middle East
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Finish Your Meal In Thailand / The Philippines / China
Related: Social Media Is An Absolute Nightmare In These 5 Countries
Say "Hi" to a Member of the Opposite Sex in Saudi Arabia
Related: 5 Craziest Ways Men Have Censored Female Sexuality
Give an Even Number of Flowers in Russia
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Give a Gift With Your Left Hand, Pretty Much Anywhere
Related: Give A Gift Your Family Will Actually Use
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What you think you are saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm the fuckin' Fonz!" What you are actually saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm going to jam my thumb in your anus!" What the hell? It's not just the Middle East. This seemingly universal gesture is also hideously offensive in West Africa and South America, whose citizens would doubtless get really confused if they ever watched Ebert and Roeper. "

7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
7 Innocent Gestures That Can Get You Killed Overseas
Extend Your Hand, Palm Outward in Greece
Related: With Original Movie 'Palm Springs' Coming to Hulu, Now's the Perfect Time to Subscribe
Give the Thumbs-Up In The Middle East
Related: Everyday Cultural Stuff You Assume Is Universal (That Isn't)
Finish Your Meal In Thailand / The Philippines / China
Related: Social Media Is An Absolute Nightmare In These 5 Countries
Say "Hi" to a Member of the Opposite Sex in Saudi Arabia
Related: 5 Craziest Ways Men Have Censored Female Sexuality
Give an Even Number of Flowers in Russia
Related: Georgia O'Keeffe Hated People Thinking Her Flower Paintings Are 'Vaginas'
Give a Gift With Your Left Hand, Pretty Much Anywhere
Related: Give A Gift Your Family Will Actually Use
Give the "OK" Sign in Brazil

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What you think you are saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm the fuckin' Fonz!" What you are actually saying: "Ayyyyy! I'm going to jam my thumb in your anus!" What the hell? It's not just the Middle East. This seemingly universal gesture is also hideously offensive in West Africa and South America, whose citizens would doubtless get really confused if they ever watched Ebert and Roeper. "

 Eating a banana on the bus? Ice cream outside? All no-nos. 18. Telling people to help themselves
While you think you're being a host extraordinaire, graciously opening up your home to someone and essentially telling them to feel right at home, in some cultures (like in Asia) this hands-off approach is uncomfortable. To them, hosting guests is a little more involved. 19. Touching
Americans are notoriously friendly, but hugging and touching others, even if only on the arm, is offensive in places like China, Thailand, Korea, and the Middle East. Respect that personal space varies from country to country. 20.

Eating a banana on the bus? Ice cream outside? All no-nos. 18. Telling people to help themselves
While you think you're being a host extraordinaire, graciously opening up your home to someone and essentially telling them to feel right at home, in some cultures (like in Asia) this hands-off approach is uncomfortable. To them, hosting guests is a little more involved. 19. Touching
Americans are notoriously friendly, but hugging and touching others, even if only on the arm, is offensive in places like China, Thailand, Korea, and the Middle East. Respect that personal space varies from country to country. 20.

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known | Udemy Blog Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Udemy Editor
Empower your team. Lead the industry.
Facts About Japan’s Culture
 To learn more about non-verbal communication here in the West, this course on how to read body language will show you how to interpret others’ movements. Containing the highest proportion of elderly people in the world, about 23% of Japanese people are over the age of 65. Older people are revered and honored in Japan, even being the first to be served food and drinks at a meal. There are many subtleties involved in meeting someone for the first time in Japan. One usually waits to be introduced, as it’s seen as impolite to introduce yourself. For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them.

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known | Udemy Blog

Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Japanese Culture Facts: 23 Things You May Not Have Known
Udemy Editor
Empower your team. Lead the industry.
Facts About Japan’s Culture

To learn more about non-verbal communication here in the West, this course on how to read body language will show you how to interpret others’ movements. Containing the highest proportion of elderly people in the world, about 23% of Japanese people are over the age of 65. Older people are revered and honored in Japan, even being the first to be served food and drinks at a meal. There are many subtleties involved in meeting someone for the first time in Japan. One usually waits to be introduced, as it’s seen as impolite to introduce yourself. For foreigners, it’s acceptable to simply shake hands upon meeting, but the traditional form of greeting is a bow, with how far you bow being relative to the respect shown to the recipient. As you would expect, table manners are many and stringent in Japan. Always wait to be told where to sit, and remember that the guest of honor, or the eldest guest, is usually seated at the center. Chopstick use is important and comes with its own set of rules. Never point with them, never pierce your food with them, and lay them on the chopstick rest when chewing, making sure not to cross them.

12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture 12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture
12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture
Omiyage Are More Than Souvenirs
Christmas Is A Romantic Holiday
There Are Cues For Your Shoes
Japanese Women Used To Blacken Their Teeth
It’s Rude To Eat Or Drink While Walking
Baseball Is Extremely Popular
Chopstick Positions Have Meaning
Eating Horse Meat Is Common
The First Geisha Were Men
Everyone Pours For Each Other
There’s A Proper Way To Appreciate Bonsai
Slurping Is A Compliment
 But it can be difficult to tell if you’re supposed to take them off in many other buildings, such as temples, shrines, and restaurants. Fortunately, there are a few cues to look for, such as if slippers are set around the entrance, it’s a clear indication that guests should take their outdoor shoes off and put the slippers on instead. Additionally, if the floor is raised at the entrance, it means guests should take their shoes off in the doorway before stepping inside and onto the raised surface. Japanese Women Used To Blacken Their Teeth
For centuries, tooth blackening, known as ohaguro, was a common practice for Japanese women, particularly married woman and geishas. In addition to being considered attractive, this practice was also believed to help protect the teeth against decay and other dental issues. Women would apply various substances to their teeth, such as mixtures of tooth wax and ink, to maintain their black appearance. The practice was banned beginning in the late 19th century, in an effort to modernize Japan and make its culture more appealing to Westerners. Courtesy Ways of Wanderers
It’s Rude To Eat Or Drink While Walking
It’s pretty common to see someone eating a bag of chips or sipping coffee while walking down the street in Western countries, but this is not the case in Japan. While it isn’t considered quite as rude as it used to be, eating or drinking while walking is still looked upon as low-class behavior. When most Japanese people buy food or drink from a vending machine on the street, for example, they’ll consume the whole thing while standing beside the machine to avoid walking with it.

12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture

12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture
12 Things You Didn't Know About Japanese Culture
Omiyage Are More Than Souvenirs
Christmas Is A Romantic Holiday
There Are Cues For Your Shoes
Japanese Women Used To Blacken Their Teeth
It’s Rude To Eat Or Drink While Walking
Baseball Is Extremely Popular
Chopstick Positions Have Meaning
Eating Horse Meat Is Common
The First Geisha Were Men
Everyone Pours For Each Other
There’s A Proper Way To Appreciate Bonsai
Slurping Is A Compliment

11 Surprising Customs from Around the World 11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
11 Surprising Customs from Around the World
Pointing with lips in Nicaragua
Kissing in France
Spitting on the bride at weddings in Greece
September 12 is the Day of Conception in Russia
Groundhog Day in the U.S.
Tipping in the U.S.
Hanging out in cemeteries in Denmark
Pointing with the thumb in Malaysia
Slurping in Japan
Kneeling or lying prostrate as greeting in Nigeria
Using the left hand for things
 These cemeteries are well manicured and teeming with locals when the weather finally begins to warm up. Assistens Kirkegård in the country’s capital, Copenhagen, provides a perfect example. Plus, you’ll be hanging out in great company as many famed Danes are buried here, including Hans Christian Andersen. Kevin Whipple / | © Culture Trip
Pointing with the thumb in Malaysia
Some countries find the act of pointing with the index finger to be abrasive and rude. While members of most cultures would probably agree that pointing fingers, both literally and figuratively isn’t exactly the nicest thing in the world, in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, this gesture can be seen as incredibly offensive. Instead, it is customary to gesture towards things with the thumb as this is seen as a more polite option. In many countries in Africa, pointing is reserved for inanimate objects only, not people. Slurping in Japan
Most societies around the world have rules about table etiquette. For western cultures, noisily consuming food is considered rude. In Japan, however, making slurping sounds while eating has an entirely different meaning.

These cemeteries are well manicured and teeming with locals when the weather finally begins to warm up. Assistens Kirkegård in the country’s capital, Copenhagen, provides a perfect example. Plus, you’ll be hanging out in great company as many famed Danes are buried here, including Hans Christian Andersen. Kevin Whipple / | © Culture Trip
Pointing with the thumb in Malaysia
Some countries find the act of pointing with the index finger to be abrasive and rude. While members of most cultures would probably agree that pointing fingers, both literally and figuratively isn’t exactly the nicest thing in the world, in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, this gesture can be seen as incredibly offensive. Instead, it is customary to gesture towards things with the thumb as this is seen as a more polite option. In many countries in Africa, pointing is reserved for inanimate objects only, not people. Slurping in Japan
Most societies around the world have rules about table etiquette. For western cultures, noisily consuming food is considered rude. In Japan, however, making slurping sounds while eating has an entirely different meaning.

The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad | Best Life The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
The 30 Biggest Cultural Mistakes Americans Make Abroad
How to be a better, smarter traveler.
1
Tipping in Japan
2
Wearing your shoes indoors
3
Sitting on a bed in your "outdoor clothing"
4
Kissing or holding hands outside
5
Dressing provocatively
6
Wishing someone a happy birthday before their actual birthday
7
Shaking hands with your left hand
8
Waiting for the rice in China
9
Giving umbrellas or clocks as gifts in China
10
Wearing a bathing suit in a sauna
11
Using the bidet the wrong way
12
Raising your arms to wave in Greece
13
Blowing your nose at the table
14
Failing to notice that your date's wineglass is empty
15
Asking for an Irish Car Bomb in Northern Ireland
16
Taking photos without asking for permission
17
Making the OK sign with your fingers
18
Touching someone's head
19
Talking or eating during a toast
20
Making the "sign of the horns."
21
Giving the lady of the house a bouquet of yellow roses
22
Taking a business card in Japan and immediately putting it in your pocket
23
Forgetting to take off your toilet slippers
24
Making the "peace" sign
25
Arriving on time in China
26
Entering or exiting the room first
27
Pointing with your feet
28
Chewing gum in Singapore
29
Giving a Russian date a bouquet of a dozen roses
30
Giving the thumbs up
Diana Bruk
Filed Under
 18
Touching someone's head
In Buddhist countries, the head is considered the most sacred body part, so patting someone on the head is a major no-no. So, no matter how cute that little boy is, resist the urge to tussle his hair. 19
Talking or eating during a toast
Shutterstock
In Eastern European countries, a toast can last for ages, and include lots of crying. No matter how tired you are of holding your shot glass up in the air, and no matter how much you want it, you must persevere and wait until the toast is over to clink glasses and drink to the bottom. 20
Making the "sign of the horns." While in the U.S. it's used to show that you're jamming to a piece of awesome rock music, in many Mediterranean and Latin countries it's used as a way of telling someone that they are being cheated on. 21
Giving the lady of the house a bouquet of yellow roses
Shutterstock
Again, you'd never expect it, but in France and Germany giving the hostess a bouquet of yellow roses indicates that her partner is cheating on her. 22
Taking a business card in Japan and immediately putting it in your pocket
The Japanese take business cards very seriously, to the point where presenting them is a ritual known as meishi koukan. The highest ranking person gives his/her card first face-down. The other person receives the card with both hands, carefully studies it, and keeps it in their hands for the remainder of the conversation.

18
Touching someone's head
In Buddhist countries, the head is considered the most sacred body part, so patting someone on the head is a major no-no. So, no matter how cute that little boy is, resist the urge to tussle his hair. 19
Talking or eating during a toast
Shutterstock
In Eastern European countries, a toast can last for ages, and include lots of crying. No matter how tired you are of holding your shot glass up in the air, and no matter how much you want it, you must persevere and wait until the toast is over to clink glasses and drink to the bottom. 20
Making the "sign of the horns." While in the U.S. it's used to show that you're jamming to a piece of awesome rock music, in many Mediterranean and Latin countries it's used as a way of telling someone that they are being cheated on. 21
Giving the lady of the house a bouquet of yellow roses
Shutterstock
Again, you'd never expect it, but in France and Germany giving the hostess a bouquet of yellow roses indicates that her partner is cheating on her. 22
Taking a business card in Japan and immediately putting it in your pocket
The Japanese take business cards very seriously, to the point where presenting them is a ritual known as meishi koukan. The highest ranking person gives his/her card first face-down. The other person receives the card with both hands, carefully studies it, and keeps it in their hands for the remainder of the conversation.

Dogeza - Wikipedia Dogeza
Dogeza
Contents
The meaning of performing dogeza
History
See also
References
 philosophical perspectives p. 74
^ American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (2006) The Journal of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan ACCJ p. 54
^ Dobson, Hugo (2003) [Japan and United Nations peacekeeping: new pressures, new responses] Routledge, p. 20 ISBN 0-415-26384-0
^ Olsen, Edward A. (1985) U.S.-Japan Strategic Reciprocity: A Neo-Internationalist View Hoover Press, vol. 307. p.109
^ Drifte, Reinhard (2003) Japan's security relations with China since 1989: from balancing to bandwagoning? Routledge, p.7 ISBN 0-415-30507-1
Retrieved from " https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dogeza&oldid=1015943985 "
Categories: Japanese culture
Human positions
Gestures of respect
Kneeling
Hidden categories: Articles with short description
Short description matches Wikidata
Articles needing additional references from December 2009
All articles needing additional references
Articles containing Japanese-language text

Dogeza - Wikipedia

Dogeza
Dogeza
Contents
The meaning of performing dogeza
History
See also
References

philosophical perspectives p. 74
^ American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (2006) The Journal of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan ACCJ p. 54
^ Dobson, Hugo (2003) [Japan and United Nations peacekeeping: new pressures, new responses] Routledge, p. 20 ISBN 0-415-26384-0
^ Olsen, Edward A. (1985) U.S.-Japan Strategic Reciprocity: A Neo-Internationalist View Hoover Press, vol. 307. p.109
^ Drifte, Reinhard (2003) Japan's security relations with China since 1989: from balancing to bandwagoning? Routledge, p.7 ISBN 0-415-30507-1
Retrieved from " https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Dogeza&oldid=1015943985 "
Categories: Japanese culture
Human positions
Gestures of respect
Kneeling
Hidden categories: Articles with short description
Short description matches Wikidata
Articles needing additional references from December 2009
All articles needing additional references
Articles containing Japanese-language text

Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Thailand – Not with the Feet
Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog?
Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off?
Taiwan – The Louder The Better
Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our other weird and wacky articles
Inspired? Pin it!
 Here is a list of some of our memorable cultural rules and differences that we have come across on our travels: View Contents [ show]
1 Thailand – Not with the Feet
2 Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog? 3 Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
4 United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off? 5 Taiwan – The Louder The Better
6 Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
7 Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
8 Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Thailand – Not with the Feet
In Thailand, the head is considered to be the most sacred part of the body (NEVER touch a Thai person on their head), and the feet are considered to be the dirtiest. On top of that, their respect to the King is unsurpassed so this story will make you giggle. We were standing in front of an elevator waiting for it to come down. At the same time, we were counting the change in our pocket. As the doors began to open, one of the coins had slipped out and began rolling into the gap of the elevator. So what was our first instinct?

Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You

Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Thailand – Not with the Feet
Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog?
Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off?
Taiwan – The Louder The Better
Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our other weird and wacky articles
Inspired? Pin it!

Here is a list of some of our memorable cultural rules and differences that we have come across on our travels: View Contents [ show]
1 Thailand – Not with the Feet
2 Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog? 3 Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
4 United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off? 5 Taiwan – The Louder The Better
6 Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
7 Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
8 Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Thailand – Not with the Feet
In Thailand, the head is considered to be the most sacred part of the body (NEVER touch a Thai person on their head), and the feet are considered to be the dirtiest. On top of that, their respect to the King is unsurpassed so this story will make you giggle. We were standing in front of an elevator waiting for it to come down. At the same time, we were counting the change in our pocket. As the doors began to open, one of the coins had slipped out and began rolling into the gap of the elevator. So what was our first instinct?

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia Bowing in Japan
Bowing in Japan
Contents
History
In the business world
Eshaku
Keirei
Saikeirei
Zarei
Saikeirei (zarei version)
Futsūrei
Senrei
In various activities
Kendo
Shinto shrine visits
Funerals
The tea ceremony
When to bow
How to bow
See also
References
Bibliography
External links
 Nowadays, the ojigi customs based on the doctrines of the Ogasawara School of warrior etiquette—which was founded some 800 years ago—is the most prevalent in society. Zarei (bowing while kneeling)
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Students wearing suits, hakama and a kimono bow to the president of the school and then to the audience at the 2015 Waseda University graduation ceremony in Japan. In modern-day Japan, bowing is a fundamental part of social etiquette which is both derivative and representative of Japanese culture, emphasizing respect and social ranks. From everyday greetings to business meetings to funerals, ojigi is ubiquitous in Japanese society and the ability to bow correctly and elegantly is widely considered to be one of the defining qualities of adulthood. Therefore, even though most Japanese people start bowing at a very young age, many companies in Japan will take the extra effort to specially train their employees on how to bow in business meetings. Generally speaking, ojigi in Japan can be coarsely divided into two categories: zarei ( 座礼 ), bowing while kneeling, and ritsurei ( 立礼 ), bowing while standing. In either case, it is considered essential to bend one's body only at the waist and keep one's back completely straight during the bowing gesture. Failure to do so is often thought of as an indication of lethargy, insincerity and even disrespect. Different sub-categories of ojigi vary mainly in the angles of inclination of one's body and the positions of one's hands, which are determined both by the status of the person one is bowing to and the scenario or context of gesture.

Bowing in Japan - Wikipedia

Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia
Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia
Meanings of hand gestures vary
Pointing your fingers
Sticking out your pinky
The V sign
Hands inside your pocket
Handing your business card
Holding a person’s gaze
Exchanging handshakes
“Talk to the hand”
Curling your index finger
Thumbs up
Touching a person’s head
Be careful of your chopsticks
Using your hands when eating
Serving others
Blowing your nose
Use both hands
Crossing your fingers
Tipping
Deferring to elders
Refrain from gum chewing
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 But if you are vacationing in Japan, China or South Korea where the wasabi or chilies can make your nose runny, blow your nose discreetly and silently as you can. You can leave the table and blow your nose in the rest room or in an area where no diners can see or hear you. Use both hands
Again, when you are in the popular destinations in East Asia, meaning China, Japan and South Korea, remember to use both hands when giving or receiving anything, from money to gifts to food. It is considered impolite to only use one hand. This is also practiced in Thailand. Crossing your fingers
If you are used to crossing your fingers to bid someone good luck, do not do this when you are in Vietnam. The Vietnamese people have a different meaning to the popular gesture. For them it is like giving them the finger. Tipping
Japanese workers find it insulting when someone leaves them a tip. In many other countries, workers look forward to receiving tips from customers, as it is a means to increase their take home pay.

Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia

Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia
Mind Your Hand and Body Language When in Asia
Meanings of hand gestures vary
Pointing your fingers
Sticking out your pinky
The V sign
Hands inside your pocket
Handing your business card
Holding a person’s gaze
Exchanging handshakes
“Talk to the hand”
Curling your index finger
Thumbs up
Touching a person’s head
Be careful of your chopsticks
Using your hands when eating
Serving others
Blowing your nose
Use both hands
Crossing your fingers
Tipping
Deferring to elders
Refrain from gum chewing
Join our newsletter here for ideas and offers relevant to your industry
About Author

But if you are vacationing in Japan, China or South Korea where the wasabi or chilies can make your nose runny, blow your nose discreetly and silently as you can. You can leave the table and blow your nose in the rest room or in an area where no diners can see or hear you. Use both hands
Again, when you are in the popular destinations in East Asia, meaning China, Japan and South Korea, remember to use both hands when giving or receiving anything, from money to gifts to food. It is considered impolite to only use one hand. This is also practiced in Thailand. Crossing your fingers
If you are used to crossing your fingers to bid someone good luck, do not do this when you are in Vietnam. The Vietnamese people have a different meaning to the popular gesture. For them it is like giving them the finger. Tipping
Japanese workers find it insulting when someone leaves them a tip. In many other countries, workers look forward to receiving tips from customers, as it is a means to increase their take home pay.

Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Cultural Differences Around the World That Will Surprise You
Thailand – Not with the Feet
Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog?
Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off?
Taiwan – The Louder The Better
Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our other weird and wacky articles
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 When they visit a new destination they come across cultural rules that they find hard to understand. But on the flip side, many people who travel can agree that they return with an extra appreciation and understanding for another culture after being able to see and experience things for themselves. It helps to remember that culture needs to be learned. And picking up a book or watching a Youtube music video isn’t enough. There are cultural norms and although these rules may be visible (or invisible) don’t get them mixed up with causal behaviors widely accepted. Here is a list of some of our memorable cultural rules and differences that we have come across on our travels: View Contents [ show]
1 Thailand – Not with the Feet
2 Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog? 3 Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
4 United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off? 5 Taiwan – The Louder The Better
6 Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
7 Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
8 Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Thailand – Not with the Feet
In Thailand, the head is considered to be the most sacred part of the body (NEVER touch a Thai person on their head), and the feet are considered to be the dirtiest.

When they visit a new destination they come across cultural rules that they find hard to understand. But on the flip side, many people who travel can agree that they return with an extra appreciation and understanding for another culture after being able to see and experience things for themselves. It helps to remember that culture needs to be learned. And picking up a book or watching a Youtube music video isn’t enough. There are cultural norms and although these rules may be visible (or invisible) don’t get them mixed up with causal behaviors widely accepted. Here is a list of some of our memorable cultural rules and differences that we have come across on our travels: View Contents [ show]
1 Thailand – Not with the Feet
2 Vietnam – Why Are You Calling Her A Dog? 3 Africa and the Middle East – Yes, They Are Holding Hands
4 United Kingdom – Did You Want Two Or Did You Just Flip Him Off? 5 Taiwan – The Louder The Better
6 Germany – Don’t Tell Them It’s Okay
7 Singapore – Chewing Gum? Good Luck
8 Middle East – Are You Hungry Or Telling Me To Wait
Thailand – Not with the Feet
In Thailand, the head is considered to be the most sacred part of the body (NEVER touch a Thai person on their head), and the feet are considered to be the dirtiest.

What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan? - Quora What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
Ollie Phelan
What does it mean to stick up the back side of your index and middle finger in the UK?
 Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in America. If you want to beckon someone you need to use the wave gesture. Or if you want to be more Japanese, like use the “beckoning cat” gesture. It’s basically the wave gesture, but upside down. Using either one is fine. Another offensive gesture is the eyelid pull down and sticking out your tongue. This is more to mock someone rather than being rude, but it’s still not something to do in public. Slapping your butt with your butt facing the person - Basically equivalent to saying “Kiss my ass”. Related Answer
Jeff Pinner
, Sadistic SOB who nonetheless still plays with trains.

What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan? - Quora

What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
Ollie Phelan
What does it mean to stick up the back side of your index and middle finger in the UK?

Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in America. If you want to beckon someone you need to use the wave gesture. Or if you want to be more Japanese, like use the “beckoning cat” gesture. It’s basically the wave gesture, but upside down. Using either one is fine. Another offensive gesture is the eyelid pull down and sticking out your tongue. This is more to mock someone rather than being rude, but it’s still not something to do in public. Slapping your butt with your butt facing the person - Basically equivalent to saying “Kiss my ass”. Related Answer
Jeff Pinner
, Sadistic SOB who nonetheless still plays with trains.

What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan? - Quora What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
Ollie Phelan
What does it mean to stick up the back side of your index and middle finger in the UK?
 Some others are
Pointing directly in someone’s face. This shows that you are very angry at the person you’re pointing at. Though this is more universal, In Japan it’s even more rude to do so unless the person being pointed at really did something very wrong to anger someone. Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger. Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in America. If you want to beckon someone you need to use the wave gesture. Or if you want to be more Japanese, like use the “beckoning cat” gesture. It’s basically the wave gesture, but upside down.

Some others are
Pointing directly in someone’s face. This shows that you are very angry at the person you’re pointing at. Though this is more universal, In Japan it’s even more rude to do so unless the person being pointed at really did something very wrong to anger someone. Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger. Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in America. If you want to beckon someone you need to use the wave gesture. Or if you want to be more Japanese, like use the “beckoning cat” gesture. It’s basically the wave gesture, but upside down.

10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad - Matador Network 10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad
10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad
1. V in Australia and England
2. Displaying your palms in Greece
3. Thumbs-up in Thailand
4. Beckoning in the Philippines
5. Patting on the head in Sri Lanka
6. A-OK in France
7. “Got your Nose!” in Turkey
8. One-handed giving in Japan
9. Crossing your Fingers in Vietnam
10. Bull Horns in Italy
 7. “ Got your Nose!” in Turkey
A first with the thumb tucked under the index finger doesn’t have a set North American meaning, except when playing “got your nose” with a child. It also means the letter “T” in American Sign Language. In Turkey, this gesture is aggressively rude; the middle-finger equivalent. Expect harsh reactions from the parents if you “steal the nose” of a Turkish child. 8. One-handed giving in Japan
In the West, people aren’t especially mindful of their hands when they offer objects to others. In Japan, though, it is polite and expected for people to make offerings with both hands.

10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad - Matador Network

10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad
10 common gestures easily misunderstood abroad
1. V in Australia and England
2. Displaying your palms in Greece
3. Thumbs-up in Thailand
4. Beckoning in the Philippines
5. Patting on the head in Sri Lanka
6. A-OK in France
7. “Got your Nose!” in Turkey
8. One-handed giving in Japan
9. Crossing your Fingers in Vietnam
10. Bull Horns in Italy

7. “ Got your Nose!” in Turkey
A first with the thumb tucked under the index finger doesn’t have a set North American meaning, except when playing “got your nose” with a child. It also means the letter “T” in American Sign Language. In Turkey, this gesture is aggressively rude; the middle-finger equivalent. Expect harsh reactions from the parents if you “steal the nose” of a Turkish child. 8. One-handed giving in Japan
In the West, people aren’t especially mindful of their hands when they offer objects to others. In Japan, though, it is polite and expected for people to make offerings with both hands.

What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan? - Quora What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
What does showing the middle finger mean in Japan?
Ollie Phelan
What does it mean to stick up the back side of your index and middle finger in the UK?
 Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger. Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in Americ
Continue Reading
The middle finger has recently become very offensive in Japan. A left over from American Occupation after WWII. Some others are
Pointing directly in someone’s face. This shows that you are very angry at the person you’re pointing at. Though this is more universal, In Japan it’s even more rude to do so unless the person being pointed at really did something very wrong to anger someone. Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger.

Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger. Not only in Japan, but in most Asian countries this is a VERY bad gesture to use. Almost as bad as the middle finger is in Americ
Continue Reading
The middle finger has recently become very offensive in Japan. A left over from American Occupation after WWII. Some others are
Pointing directly in someone’s face. This shows that you are very angry at the person you’re pointing at. Though this is more universal, In Japan it’s even more rude to do so unless the person being pointed at really did something very wrong to anger someone. Asking someone to come over with one finger. You know the upward curling index finger.