Body Movement

Changing the position of your body or part of your body. It can also mean going from one place to another.

I moved closer to the window so I could see outside.

To change the direction your body or a body part is facing.

Turn your body slightly to the left for the photo.

To turn so that you face the opposite direction.

I turned around and realized someone had been following me.

To change from one side to the other, especially when you're lying down or when something is flipped.

I turned over in bed because the other side of the pillow was cooler.

To rotate or bend something into a different position, often involving a spiraling movement.

He twisted his body to reach the suitcase behind him.

To change from a straight position by curving a part of your body.

Bend your knees when you land to protect your joints.

To bend your upper body forward and downward, usually toward the ground.

He bent over the sink to wash his face.

To make a body part or something become straight.

Straighten your legs and point your toes toward the ceiling.

To return your body to a more upright position, especially after slouching or bending.

Straighten up; you're going to hurt your back if you keep slouching.

To move something so that it is at an angle, rather than straight or level.

Tilt the screen toward me so I can read it.

To position your body at an angle, usually while supporting yourself against something.

She leaned on the table and whispered something to me.

He leaned against the wall while waiting for the bus.

To move your upper body forward, usually without bending all the way down.

The passenger leaned forward to look through the windshield.

To move your upper body backward while keeping your body relatively upright.

She leaned backward in her chair and closed her eyes.

To bend or form something into a curved or rounded shape. With the body, it often means bringing yourself into a more compact position.

She curled her legs under the blanket and started reading.

To lengthen or extend your muscles or body, often to reduce stiffness or prepare for exercise.

I always stretch my legs after sitting for a long flight.

To make a body part reach outward or away from the body, often to its full length.

He extended his arm to stop the door from closing.

To tighten your muscles, usually because of stress, fear, concentration, or physical effort.

I could feel my shoulders tense as the argument became more heated.

To release physical tension and return your body to a more comfortable, loose state.

Take a deep breath and relax your shoulders.