Making a Connection: The Power of Moving in Sync

Humans are wired for connection, and one of the most powerful ways we can foster closeness is through movement. Throughout history, armies, churches, organisations, and communities have harnessed the power of synchronised movement to create a sense of unity and belonging.

Whether marching in formation, singing in unison, or dancing together, these coordinated actions help people feel a part of something bigger than themselves. There is something about moving as one that softens the boundaries between ‘self’ and ‘other,’ allowing us to feel emotionally in sync. Anthropologists and sociologists refer to this phenomenon as ‘muscular bonding.’

🌠Synchrony and Social Cohesion🌠 Psychological research has shown that people feel more connected when they move synchronously as if they are ‘on the same team.’ This not only fosters rapport but also increases cooperation and mutual liking. Studies suggest that synchronised movement can even promote feelings of trust and empathy, making it a fundamental aspect of human bonding. This kind of ‘syncing up’ happens naturally as we grow close to others, leading to an unconscious tendency to mirror the behaviour, postures, mannerisms, and speech patterns of those around us.

This phenomenon, known as the Chameleon Effect, is something we’ve all likely experienced. Perhaps you’ve picked up a new expression, a hand gesture, or even a way of speaking simply from spending time with someone. Our bodies instinctively tune in to those around us, creating a seamless connection. This natural mimicry can make social interactions more fluid and enjoyable, reinforcing bonds with friends, colleagues, and strangers.

🌠Using Mimicry to Build Rapport🌠 Interestingly, research suggests we can intentionally use mimicry to foster a sense of connection. A landmark study by psychologists Tanya Chartrand and John Bargh explored this idea by having 78 participants engage in 15-minute interactions with an experimenter. The experimenter maintained a neutral, relaxed posture in half of the interactions. The experimenter mirrored the participant’s posture, movements, and mannerisms in the other half.

The results were striking: participants who had been mimicked reported liking the experimenter 8% more than those who had not. They also described the interaction as smoother and less awkward. Subsequent studies have found that mimicry doesn’t just increase feelings of liking—it also encourages prosocial behaviour. Subtly mirrored people were likelier to help others, donate to charity, and even display greater cooperation in group settings.

Mimicry operates subconsciously, enhancing our ability to connect with others without requiring explicit effort. This explains why we often feel instant familiarity or ease with someone who unknowingly mirrors our actions. It’s a social tool that facilitates bonding and helps navigate interpersonal dynamics more smoothly.

🌠The Fine Line Between Connection and Discomfort🌠 While mimicry can be a powerful tool for fostering rapport, it must be used carefully. If it becomes too apparent, it can have the opposite effect, leading to discomfort rather than connection. When someone feels they are being deliberately copied, it can come across as inauthentic or even manipulative, which may lead to irritation rather than bonding.

Successful mimicry only acts as a ‘social glue’ when perceived as happening naturally. This is why the most effective mirroring forms are subtle and unconscious rather than forced. Genuine connections emerge from a balance of attentiveness and natural adaptation to another person’s style and rhythm.

🌠Practical Ways to Use Synchrony for Connection🌠 Understanding the role of synchrony and mimicry in social interactions provides valuable insights into building stronger relationships. Here are some ways you can apply this knowledge in everyday life: Engage in Shared Activities—Synchronised movement can strengthen bonds, whether exercising with a partner, dancing, or simply walking in rhythm with someone.

✅ Practice Active Listening – Pay attention to the speech patterns, tone, and pace of the person you speak with and subtly align your manner of speaking to match theirs.

✅ Mirror Naturally – If you notice a friend using a particular gesture or posture, subtly incorporating similar movements can enhance feelings of connection and ease.

✅Join Group Rituals – Participating in communal activities like singing, chanting, or meditative breathing can foster a deep sense of belonging and unity.

Awareness of the subtle power of synchrony can help us build deeper connections in our daily lives. Whether through shared movement, mirroring gestures, or simply tuning into another’s rhythm, we can cultivate more substantial, meaningful relationships without making them feel forced. Engaging naturally and fostering a connection that enhances social and emotional bonds is key.