In many cultures, bowing is a traditional way of showing respect. If you're trying to show respect as part of a tradition, it's important to know when to bow and when it's inappropriate to do so. Every culture has unique rituals associated with proper bowing, and these nuances may not apply in other countries. Do your research before you join this tradition of bowing, and pay attention to how the locals do it.
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Method 1 of 3: Bowing in Asian Culture
Step 1. Know when it's a good time to bow
Bowing is commonly used in Asian cultures to show respect, appreciation, or gratitude. Bowing without saying a word is often used in place of “Thank you.” In Asian cultures, you must bow from the hips with your head down, but this ritual is not strictly practiced outside of Asia.
- The tradition of bowing is widespread in many East Asian countries although there are differences to some degree. But this tradition is most prominent in countries such as China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Vietnam. Variations of bowing with different nuances are used to express various things, including apologies, gratitude, sincerity, respect, and regret.
- The handshake is becoming increasingly popular as a greeting in many East Asian cultures, particularly in business circles. Bowing may not be necessary the first time you meet someone-especially if the person is a colleague-but bowing can be a flexible way to express more complex emotions. A small bow to show politeness is usually acceptable.
Step 2. Get into a bending position
Stand straight with your feet together, forming a V shape by bringing your heels together. Clench your fists at your sides, but don't squeeze them too tightly.
Step 3. Bend over by bending at the waist, not the neck
Bend at the waist, but keep your back straight. Open your fists as you bend over. Bring your legs together.
Step 4. Avert your eyes to show respect
If you are bowing to an older person, boss, or someone you respect, look at your feet as you bow. If you bow to someone who doesn't fall into any of the above categories, you can look them in the eye.
Please keep in mind that if you look someone in the eye this can be seen as a sign of disrespect. Usually this happens when you bow to older people, people with more traditional ways of thinking, especially those who grew up with strong East Asian cultural influences. Carefully consider the situation you are in, and pay attention to who you are bowing to
Step 5. Complete this bowing ritual
Straighten your body, clench your fists, and spread your legs so that they return to a V shape. You are free to make eye contact with the person you are bowing to.
Method 2 of 3: Bowing in Western Culture
Step 1. Know when is the right time to bow
Bowing in many western cultures has evolved. In the past, bowing was a traditional way of showing respect and acknowledgment, but nowadays it is no longer common practice. You're still bowing to show respect, or to add some dramatic style to a situation, but this gesture will seem a little dated. However, bowing is still generally considered a polite gesture.
- Bowing in western culture is often accompanied by an atmosphere of formality that aims to mock, and may contain a hint of ironic self-awareness. Bowing in European-American culture is generally an anachronism-related gesture, so bear in mind that you may not be taken seriously.
- Try applying the mocking formality of bowing by applying different nuances and performing the gesture in an exaggerated fashion. Bow very slowly and deeply to show sarcasm-somewhat like a slow clap. Bow very quickly and politely to convey a mocking respect.
Step 2. Place your left hand behind your back
Bend your elbows, and place your hands (palms facing out) at waist level. Or, press your left hand on your stomach.
Step 3. Bring your right hand to your waist
Bend your elbows. Press your palms against your body while leaning your upper body forward. The lower you bow, the more respect you show.
If you are wearing a hat, take it off and grasp the brim with your right hand. If you're in a situation that calls for a high-level salute-for example, a funeral, or during the national anthem-tuck your hat under your arm until the moment is over
Step 4. Lower your gaze
Don't lift your chin to maintain eye contact-this can be considered disrespectful. However, this tradition of bowing has evolved from feudal society with stratified social strata, so don't expect most people of the 21st century to be offended if you make eye contact or bow in the "wrong way."
Step 5. Straighten your body in one smooth motion
Straighten your back. Drop your hands at your sides. Lift your gaze to meet the eyes of the person you are bowing to, and continue to talk to them.
Method 3 of 3: Bending in Other Situations
Step 1. Bend over in a corporate environment
Bow down to show respect, in the same way as in non-corporate situations, but be careful about the rank of the person to whom you are bowing. Japanese culture is highly hierarchical, and that means that older people have a higher social status than younger people, men usually have a higher status than women, and senior executives demand more respect than junior executives.
- Japanese businessmen often exchange business cards before bowing or shaking hands. Make sure your business card clearly lists your position - this will determine who will be your counterpart in negotiations.
- If you bow to someone who has a higher position than you in the company, make sure you look away to show respect. Keep in mind that people in higher positions may not bow back-in practice bowing is often a one-way gesture.
Step 2. Consider going curtsy if you're wearing a skirt or dress
Cross your legs and ankles while standing, then bend your knees slightly. Lift a pinch of skirt fabric at the sides of the body. It's a traditional European and American way of showing respect, but its use has declined sharply over the past century.
Bend over in any situation that may require you to do so. Like bowing, a curtsy is still considered polite, but this gesture will seem a little out of date
Step 3. Bow to the audience
In Western culture, people usually bow after finishing a speech or performing to receive applause from the audience. While the audience is clapping (or taking photos, cheering, etc.), place your hands in the center of your chest. Take a deep breath. Bend your back. Lower your head for a moment, then stand back up straight.
- Don't stoop too long, or too briefly. Bend for 3-5 minutes, but don't let it drag on.
- Stand still. Don't sway when you bend over.
Tips
- The exact trigger and bending mechanism may vary from culture to culture. Before you bend, make sure you do it right.
- People usually put their hands on their chest when bending down, especially when wearing clothes with a low chest.
Warning
- Make sure you don't lean too far. Don't lose your balance!
- Beware of people who will bow back. Stand a distance away enough so that your heads don't bump into each other.
