How to Decode Their Feelings Without Saying a Word

Have you ever found yourself wondering if someone secretly harbors deep feelings for you? While words can sometimes be misleading, body language never lies. This Valentine’s Day, if you’re questioning where you stand with that special someone, a few subtle yet powerful signs could reveal the answer.

Body language expert Judi James, known for her deep analysis of nonverbal communication, has outlined nine undeniable indicators that someone may be in love with you. These cues range from subconscious gestures to behavioural shifts that we often don’t even realize we’re displaying.

If you’re navigating a situation ship or just unsure about someone’s true intentions, these signs can offer some much-needed clarity.

Judi James said there are nine signs you can look out for (**Getty Stock Photo**)

Let’s explore what the “look of love” really means and how small, involuntary actions can expose feelings stronger than words.

1. The Look of Love – A Gaze That Speaks Volumes

You’ve probably heard the phrase “the look of love,” but what does it really mean? Imagine someone looking at you the way a heart-eyes emoji would—soft, affectionate, and full of admiration. This is one of the most obvious signs of genuine romantic feelings.

Judi James explains that nature enhances our physical attractiveness when we’re in love. This evolutionary trait exists to encourage bonding and reproduction, making us instinctively more appealing to those we adore.

💡 How to Spot It:

Their facial features soften when they look at you, almost as if they are mesmerized.
Their eyes slightly narrow, signaling warmth and deep affection.
They instinctively start to smile, but may try to suppress it, causing small puckering around the lips.
They appear entranced when gazing at you, losing focus on their surroundings.
Their eyebrows may subtly lift, expressing excitement and admiration.

This isn’t just a passing glance; it’s an adoring, dreamy expression that instantly gives away their emotions. When someone looks at you like this, they’re not just attracted to you—they’re deeply invested in you emotionally.

Your pupils and voice can change when you’re in love (**Getty Stock Photo**)

👉 Want to understand more about the psychology behind attraction? Read this research.

2. Prolonged Eye Contact – The Windows to the Soul

Ever heard the phrase, “Look into my eyes”? This isn’t just something hypnotists say—it’s a clear sign of emotional connection. If someone can’t stop making prolonged eye contact with you, it’s often because they feel a deep connection and intense admiration.

James explains that when someone is in love, their eye contact increases significantly. One reason for this is pupil dilation, a subconscious and uncontrollable physiological response when we see someone we adore.

💡 Signs to Look For:

Their gaze lingers a little too long, even when the conversation moves on.
You catch them staring at you when they think you’re not looking.
Their pupils appear larger than usual when they’re around you.
They blink less frequently when locking eyes with you, showing intense focus.
Their eyes follow you around the room, even if they’re engaged in another conversation.

✨ Fun Fact: Studies show that mutual eye contact for just four minutes can make two people feel a deep emotional connection—even if they were strangers before. Check out this fascinating study.

3. A Deep and Husky Voice – The Sound of Affection

Did you know that when someone is falling for you, their voice naturally changes? Research shows that people instinctively alter their tone when speaking to someone they love or admire. This is a subconscious way of making their voice more attractive and inviting.

James explains that while early flirtation might be filled with giggles and high-pitched excitement, deeper love brings a more intimate tone. This is a clear sign of emotional bonding rather than just physical attraction.

💡 What to Listen For:

Their voice becomes lower and huskier, almost like a romantic whisper.
There’s less shrieking and high-pitched laughter—instead, they speak softly and smoothly.
Their tone is calm and warm, as if they are trying to draw you closer.
They may slow down their speech, savoring every word with you.
When emotional, their voice may slightly shake, revealing vulnerability.

🔊 Want to learn more about how voices change with attraction? Read this interesting breakdown.

4. Toe Curling – The Unexpected Sign of Happiness

While we usually associate toe curling with discomfort, James describes it as the human version of a tail wag when it comes to love.

💡 How to Spot It:

When sitting together, they might curl their toes subtly.
If their feet start tapping, it could be a sign of nervous excitement.
A relaxed, splayed foot posture suggests comfort, while restless or tapping feet may indicate uncertainty.

Eye contact can be a big one (**Getty stock images**)

👣 Why does this happen? When we experience strong emotions, we unconsciously express them through physical movements—including our feet!

5. Mirroring Movements – Acting Like a Perfect Match

Have you ever noticed that when you’re deeply engaged in a conversation with someone, you start to mirror their body language?

James explains that when people fall in love, they subconsciously sync up their movements as a way of bonding and creating rapport.

💡 How to Recognize Mirroring:

They copy your gestures, such as crossing their arms when you do.
They match your speech pace or tone.
They might even start dressing similarly without realizing it!

🔗 Want to dive deeper into the science behind mirroring in relationships? Check out this psychological study.

6. Undivided Attention – Prioritizing You Over Everything

One of the biggest green flags in love is complete focus.

James states that when someone is falling for you, they have a strong desire to tune into you and block out distractions.

💡 Key Indicators:

They ignore their phone when they’re with you.
They engage in active listening, nodding and responding thoughtfully.
They lean in and maintain focus, showing they genuinely care.

📱 Are you always fighting for their attention over their phone? Read this article on how technology affects modern relationships.

7. Shyness – The Sweet Side of Falling in Love

Even the most confident person can suddenly become shy and awkward when falling for someone.

James explains that love triggers a rush of emotions, which can make someone behave in unexpected ways.

💡 Shyness Signals:

They blush or look down when making eye contact.
They fidget with their hair or touch their face nervously.
They giggle unexpectedly—even at things that aren’t that funny!

Undivided attention is a sign of love (**Getty Stock Photo**)

🤔 Why does this happen? Love activates the same brain regions as anxiety, making people act a little out of character.

8. “Locking Off” – Creating an Intimate Bubble

James describes “locking off” as a behavior where someone turns their back to the rest of the room to focus entirely on you.

💡 Examples of Locking Off:

They stand or sit with their back to the crowd at a party.
They pick secluded spots at restaurants.
They show no interest in impressing others—only you.

💑 Pro tip: If someone truly likes you, their focus won’t waver when others are around. Here’s how to tell if you’re their priority.

9. Love vs. Lust – Where Do Their Eyes Go?

James makes an important distinction between love and lust based on where someone’s gaze lingers.

💡 How to Tell the Difference:

Lust: They focus on your body, scanning areas like your chest, hips, or legs.
Love: They maintain eye contact and focus on your facial expressions.

🔎 Curious about the difference between love and lust? Read this deep dive.

Final Thoughts: Are They In Love With You?

If you’ve noticed several of these signs in someone’s behavior, there’s a good chance they have strong feelings for you.

Body language often reveals more than words ever could, and by paying attention to these subtle cues, you can decode someone’s true emotions without them ever saying, “I love you.”

💬 Which of these signs have you noticed in your own relationships? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag a friend who might need this insight!

Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/Tom Werner