Reason you should always look into someone's left eye when talking to them

A neuroscientist has shared a simple yet effective tip that she believes everyone should utilise when engaging in conversation, especially during a date with someone you're interested in. Dr Tara Swart, an expert in brain science, was a guest on Steven Bartlett's Diary of a CEO podcast, where she spoke about the 'incredible power of the mind'.

Dr Swart is a neuroscientist and medical doctor who holds a senior lecturer position at MIT Sloan. She has penned 'The Source: Open Your Mind, Change Your Life' and 'The Secrets of the Universe, the Science of the Brain', and also hosts the Reinvent Yourself podcast.

During her stint on the show, she explained to Steven and listeners the importance of maintaining eye contact during a conversation, specifically focusing on the other person's left eye. According to Dr Swart, this can trigger a natural bonding response in the brain, fostering a deeper emotional connection with the person.

She elaborated that this left-eye focus technique stems from our infancy. Dr Swart noted that a newborn baby primarily learns about emotions through eye contact with its mother.

She further explained that since most people are right-handed, they tend to cradle their babies in their left arm, leaving their dominant hand free. As a result, when they gaze into their child's eyes, their right eye usually aligns with the baby's left eye, reports Bristol Live.

A study has discovered how crucial early interactions are for infants, revealing that such moments can have a profound influence on the amygdala—our emotional processing centre in the brain. The study's findings paint a picture of an 'emotional resonance loop', a critical bonding mechanism.

One researcher detailed: "So, most people are right-handed, so they'll be holding their baby in their left arm so they can use their dominant hand to do stuff." She further highlighted the role of eye contact, explaining to the audience: "So when you gaze at your baby, your right eye is looking at their left eye, and then as that interaction from the optic nerve is going around the brain".

She added: "It's impacting the amygdala, where emotions come from. It's creating this emotional resonance loop that's part of how the mother and baby bond, so that right eye to left eye contact is the most bonding eye contact you can have with someone."

The study also shed light on how the brain hemispheres function—left being attributed to logic and language, while the right is more about emotions and social cues. Certain experts believe since the right hemisphere governs the left field of vision, meeting someone’s left eye could stir stronger emotional connections.

• Select the appropriate environment. This method is most effective in one-on-one discussions where you have the complete focus of the other person.
• Timing is crucial. Attempt to apply this technique while you are listening to someone else speak, instead of when you are the one talking.
• Begin with a calm attitude. Consider starting with a handshake or a brief, friendly exchange before engaging in extended eye contact.
• Be conscious. According to various experts, this technique can have significant power, so it should be used thoughtfully and with respect.

Elaborating on the potency of eye contact, the doctor continued: "If I'm trying to build a bond with someone, that's the statistically most likely one to create good resonance between you." The chat took a humorous twist as Bartlett cheekily asked if she had been locking left-eye contact with him throughout their chat.

With a chuckle, she explained how embracing a hug and sharing a laugh before the interview would have unwittingly lowered his defences, paving the way for a connection. Dr Swart didn't stop there; she also touched on other non-verbal cues like handshakes, embraces, and pecks on the cheek, all of which can cultivate a sense of camaraderie and trust.

Creating meaningful relationships with others requires active listening, demonstrating empathy, and being authentic. Participating in joint activities, discovering shared interests, and showing appreciation can also strengthen connections. This journey takes time, dedication, and a readiness to be vulnerable and embrace new friendships.