Trying to Understand a Hand Squeeze

by Suz
(Australia)

I once had a person reach their hand under mine with their palm facing up, interlock all their fingers with mine, my palm was facing up as well, and gently squeeze my hand, pressing the fingers into my palm.

The reason I am confused is because for 2 hours previous the person was grilling me about my life.

It was the mother of a male friend of mine.

Thanks.

Our answer

Tough one, Suz. Haven't really come across that particular hand squeeze, so this is just a feeling I got from what you described.

Since you were 'grilled', as you say, I think that hand gesture is conveying intimacy, signaling to you that she accepts you.

If it's a cultural gesture, I'd love to know more about it... (especially if I got it totally wrong). If anyone reading this has the 'inside scoop', please share your thoughts in the comments! Thanks in advance!

And Suz, thanks for asking. And if you ever get the chance to ask that lady, maybe you could ask her what she meant with that? :-)