How to Manifesting a Relationship

Everything you need to know about attracting love into your life with manifestation

You’ve heard of people manifesting a new car or a raise, but did you know that manifestation works just as well for finding a relationship? Manifesting a relationship is actually a straightforward process; all you have to do is visualize exactly what you want, believe in yourself and your worthiness to find love, and make an action plan to go out there and get it. In this article, we’ll show you exactly what to do to manifest a relationship, plus answer all your questions about how long it might take and how to tell if your efforts are working. Read on!

Quick Steps to Manifest Love

1. Define what you’re looking for in a relationship and a partner in detail.^[1]
2. Visualize yourself in your future relationship.
3. Embody the love you want to receive.
4. Make a concrete action plan to find your future partner.
5. Stay open to new opportunities and surprises.
6. Stay optimistic to radiate more positive energy.

Steps

How to Manifest a Relationship

1. Get clear on what you’re looking for in as much detail as possible. What does your ideal relationship look like? What traits or values does your future partner have? Get super specific about what it is you want; mindfulness exercises like meditating, journaling, or even just talking to a friend can help you clarify your thoughts and raise your self-awareness.^[2]
   
   • Focus on qualities you want instead of ones you don’t want. For example, “a partner who respects me” is more helpful and positive than “someone who’s not a jerk like my ex.”
   • Think about the values, traits, and lifestyle of your ideal partner. Do they volunteer? Do they stay active? Do they take charge in an emergency? Details like “brown hair” are fine, but these deeper qualities speak more to who that person is and how your relationship will work.
   • Don’t worry about creating the perfect list of traits. As you manifest, you can always come back and reevaluate what you want.
2. Visualize what it looks and feels like to be with your future partner. Imagine the ideal relationship you’ve described and visualize yourself with that person in great detail. What are you doing together? How does it feel to be next to them? Spend a few minutes each day relaxing with your eyes closed, imagining your future life.^[3]
   
   • Use all 5 senses for your visualization. How does your partner smell? What does it feel like to hold their hand? To kiss them?
   • If visualization doesn’t come easily to you, try making a vision board, journaling about your dream relationship, or even narrating a scene with your future partner out loud.
   • Visualizing helps you develop and hold onto positive emotions and optimism related to your manifesting. This positive energy will attract positive outcomes!
3. Embody and radiate the love you want to attract. To find and accept the love you deserve from someone else, you need to feel it from yourself. Focus on loving yourself—pursue your passions, practice self-care, and have compassion for yourself when you feel down or insecure about a perceived flaw.^[4][5]
   
   • Remember that no one is perfect (not even the person you’re manifesting), so don’t let insecurities hold you back from looking for love. You’re worthy!
   • Use positive affirmations to boost your self-esteem. For example, tell yourself “I’m an interesting person with a lot to offer” every morning to fight feelings of inadequacy.
   • When you feel good about yourself, it shows! Others will notice your self-assuredness, joy, and positive energy—including the potential dates and lovers you’re manifesting.^[6]
4. Make an action plan that aligns with your goal. A solid plan motivates you to get out there and do what it takes to find a relationship.^[7] Make profiles on dating apps, ask friends to set you up with potential dates, or work on striking up conversations with strangers so you have the confidence to flirt with that eye-catching person across the bar.
   
   • Make your goals specific so you can keep yourself accountable. For example, if you’re trying to go on more dates, you might set a goal of going on 2 per week.
   • Make your first step something small and manageable to boost your confidence. Maybe it’s simply to pick out a go-to first date outfit you feel attractive in to get more excited about dating.
   • You can always adjust your action plan as you find what works for you. Maybe you absolutely hate the dating apps you downloaded—it’s OK to delete them and try to meet people in other ways.
5. Surrender yourself to new opportunities and surprises along the way. Do your best to enjoy the manifestation process instead of fixating on the future outcome. Your future relationship aside, your efforts will also help you meet new people, try new things, and grow as a person.^[8] Say “yes” to more things and see what happens when you live in the moment; it might just be the key to finding your perfect match.
   
   • Obsessing over the outcome injects negativity into your manifestation, which can make it take longer to work.
   • When you feel frustrated, remember that the lessons you learn along the way—how to be confident, how to love yourself, and more—can be just as valuable and life changing as your future relationship.
6. Stay optimistic and believe that you’ll find your perfect match. When you truly believe you can achieve your goal of manifesting a relationship, you become more hardworking, positive, and attuned to potential matches or date opportunities. It’s like a self-fulfilling prophecy; knowing you’ll get what you want makes you primed and ready to go get it.^[9]
   
   • This is known as a growth or abundance mindset. When you feel positive about reaching a goal, you get more creative in how you achieve it and are more likely to attract success.
   • If you find yourself faltering, look back on all the progress you’ve made so far. Are you dating more? Feeling more confident or sure of what you want? These are all signs your efforts are paying off!

What is manifestation and how does it work?

1. Manifestation is the process of turning your thoughts into reality. Manifesting works when you align your conscious thoughts, feelings, and actions toward achieving a goal. By shifting your priorities and mindset with your goal in mind, you open yourself up to opportunities to make your wishes come true.^[10]
   
   • This is why manifesting is closely linked to using the Law of Attraction. By radiating optimism and working for what you want, you’ll attract your desire (like a relationship) into your life.
   • The Law of Attraction and manifestation can work both ways: positive thoughts and actions will bring positive results, while negative thoughts will lead to negative outcomes.
   • Taking aligned action is crucial to manifesting. Manifestation is not magic and isn’t as likely to work without some genuine effort to get what you want.

Can you manifest a specific person?

1. Yes, you can manifest a specific individual—but it’s not always wise. If you’re infatuated with someone, it’s natural to want to be in a relationship with them. However, remember that they have free will and their own desires, energy, or goals in life may not match up with yours. You may also be seeing them through rose-tinted glasses; once you’re dating, you may realize they’re not as good of a fit for you as you thought.^[11]
   
   • Manifesting a specific person doesn’t violate their free will or give you bad karma. They can make their own choices, and they wouldn’t pursue or go on a date with you if they didn’t want to on some level.
   • Instead of manifesting the person, try manifesting someone who has the qualities of that person you’re attracted to—it may end up being them!
   • For example, if you’re attracted to someone for their great sense of humor and compassion, add those traits to your list of ideal characteristics for your partner. As you manifest, that specific person may enter your romantic life, or someone who has similar lovable qualities will.

How long does it take to manifest a relationship?

1. There’s no exact timeline for when your relationship will find you. Some people may find a partner in just a few weeks, while others may need several months or longer to find their ideal relationship. It all depends on what you’re looking for, how actively you’re pursuing it, and how long it takes to truly believe you’re worthy of love and to invite it into your life.
   
   • For example, if you’re still hung up on an ex or feeling insecure, you may not find a meaningful relationship very quickly no matter how many dates you go on.
   • On the other hand, jumping into the dating pool with confidence, optimism, and a specific intention to find a loving partner will yield faster results.
   • Once you set your sights on love and align your thoughts and actions with it, your relationship could manifest at any time. Keep your eyes open and your heart full!
2. Reexamine your goals and intentions if it feels like it’s taking too long. Patience is a virtue when it comes to manifesting, but if your intuition tells you things aren’t progressing like they should, you might just be trying to manifest the wrong thing at the wrong time. If you find yourself feeling stuck, some common roadblocks are:
   
   • Not quite being ready for a relationship. Maybe you’re still rebuilding your confidence after a breakup or struggling with a fear of commitment. Identify and address what’s holding you back to align your inner thoughts and feelings with your goal of finding love.
   • Manifesting the wrong person for you. Are you trying to get back with an ex who treated you poorly? Maybe you’re looking for the type of person you’re expected to be with and not who you truly want. Revisit your list of ideal traits in a partner and make some changes to reorient yourself toward someone who will love and support you.
   • Your perfect partner not being available yet. Maybe they’re in another relationship or live on the other side of the country right now. Don’t give up hope! Stay optimistic and trust that your genuine effort will attract the love of your life at the perfect moment for you both.

Signs Your Manifestation Is Working

1. {endbold}It may be tricky to tell whether your efforts are paying off while you work on manifesting a relationship. Every person’s journey is different, but here are some common signs that your hard work and positivity will bring you love and fulfillment:
   
   • You’re meeting and dating people who you like and might be a fit for you, even if a relationship never materializes. This is a hint you’re on the right path.
   • You start feeling the love you crave before you even meet your person. This love and support might come from friends, family, or even yourself. Once you feel it, you can attract it!
   • You’re being “tested” by exes or old, bad habits. The universe is checking if you’ve grown and are ready for your true love. Stay strong and prove you won’t revert back to your old ways.
   • You just have a “gut feeling.” You feel optimistic, positive, or a general sense of peace. You’re not worried about finding a relationship because you know that it’s coming.^[12]
   • You know what to do next. Consciously or subconsciously, you know who to talk to, where to go, or what to accomplish in order to find your person.
   • Negative things disappear and new opportunities arise. Draining people, habits, or feelings (like insecurity or a pesky ex) fade from your life while new chances for a relationship (like being asked out or passing a sign for a singles mixer) start popping up everywhere.

How Do You Troubleshoot a Manifestation That Isn’t Working?

Video

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v165349_b01]. 21 March 2025.
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202009/what-is-manifestation-science-based-ways-to-manifest
3. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202009/what-is-manifestation-science-based-ways-to-manifest
4. ↑ [v165349_b01]. 21 March 2025.
5. ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/how-to-manifest.html
6. ↑ [v165349_b01]. 21 March 2025.
7. ↑ https://www.berkeleywellbeing.com/how-to-manifest.html
8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/my-pleasure/202101/how-to-manifest-what-you-want-the-practical-way
9. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202009/what-is-manifestation-science-based-ways-to-manifest
10. ↑ https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/what-is-law-of-attraction-loa/
11. ↑ https://www.throughthephases.com/manifesting-a-specific-person/
12. ↑ https://ideapod.com/signs-youre-manifesting-is-working/

How to Signs He Wants You to Be His Girlfriend Soon

If you like a guy you've been casually dating for a while, how can you tell when he's ready to take things to the next level? Don't worry! Men sometimes have trouble expressing their emotions outright, but that doesn't mean they're not interested. Keep reading to figure out what he's thinking and learn all the signs that he wants you to be his girlfriend.

Steps

He deleted his dating profile.

1. Deleting his profile means he doesn't want a new match—he wants you! If the two of you met through an online dating service, check back after a few weeks of dating to see if his profile is still active. A deactivated profile is a surefire sign that he only has eyes for you and is focused on progressing your relationship further—likely sooner rather than later.^[1]
   
   • If his profile is still active, don't lose hope. It doesn't mean he's uninterested; he might have just forgotten or not bothered to go back onto the site. Look for the other signs that he wants you to be his girlfriend.

He drops hints that he's not dating anyone else.

1. He may want to take things to the next level if he's already exclusive. If he wants you to be his girlfriend, he might come right out and say that he's not seeing anyone but you. While it doesn't officially make you a couple, statements like that imply that he's devoted to strengthening his relationship with you alone.^[2]
   
   • He might also drop hints by stating how great things are going between you and how much fun he's having with you—or, he might ask you if you're having a good time with him and if you can see yourself in a relationship with him.
   • If you're just as interested in him, offer reassurance by confirming that you're also not seeing anyone. This can help banish any self-doubt or nerves stopping him from asking you to be his girlfriend.
   • Some equate exclusivity with being in a relationship, but others prefer to have “the talk” (a discussion about being together). When a guy is exclusive without being asked, he’s ready to have "the talk," or planning to start it himself!

He asks you lots of personal questions.

1. He'll try to learn everything about you if he wants you as his girlfriend. It's a good sign if he starts asking you more profound, thoughtful questions because it means he sees you as relationship material and wants to get to know you better.^[3] If he were only interested in casual dating or hookups, he wouldn't bother to get to know you beyond surface-level information.
   
   • Open-ended questions like, "What are your biggest goals in life?" and "What is your greatest passion?" are excellent signs because he clearly wants to know more about you in a meaningful way.
   • He'll also ask many follow-up questions based on conversations, which shows that he's listening to every word you say!
   • Be sure to ask him questions about himself, too. Be attentive and actively listen to show him that you're just as interested as he is.^[4]

He compliments you often.

1. Genuine, specific compliments mean a guy thinks you're pretty special! When he wants you to be his girlfriend, he'll notice all the things that make you special—and he'll be sure to mention them. He'll compliment your clothes, your style, or your intelligence because he's into you.^[5] A guy who praises you, whether in person or over text, is clearly smitten with you beyond casual dating.^[6]
   
   • Look out for more precise compliments than "You look nice today." Instead, it could be an observation about how your shirt matches your eyes or the way your smile lights up the room. Detail is the key to sincere praise!
   • Compliments about your appearance are lovely, but make sure some go deeper. If he compliments your smarts, sense of humor, talents, or tastes, he's definitely interested.
   • Take compliments gracefully and appreciatively. To make him feel valued, give him compliments too.

He initiates communication.

1. A guy who texts and calls wants to ensure you stick around. Think about your recent communication with him, and which of you has done more reaching out and establishing contact. Ideally, it'll be a healthy split! When he wants you to be his girlfriend, he'll waste no time texting or calling you whenever he misses you—which will probably be most days.^[7]
   
   • If the two of you talk daily, that's a great sign! Just remember that this doesn't mean he's reaching out every time; you can send the first "good morning" text sometimes, too.
   • It's normal to text more since texting is super easy and convenient, but phone calls are an especially great sign. Phone calls are more intimate than text messages, which shows that he's putting extra effort into communication.

He responds to all of your texts.

1. Fast responses to your texts mean he’s eager to hear from you. When it's your turn to send the first text, note how fast his replies are. If he's usually quite responsive, your guy is interested in you as a girlfriend. Men who aren't invested in a relationship take their time without worrying about what the other person will think.^[8]
   
   • Remember that life happens, and nobody is perfect. For example, if he has an intense job and you don't hear from him during work hours, that's completely normal. So long as he texts you as soon as he can, it's still a good sign.
   • Want more insights on whether he likes you? Join the discussion at wikiHow's "What are the signs that a guy is interested in you?" forum!

He stays close to you when you're out.

1. He'll stick by your side to show you that he's romantically invested. Physical closeness is his way of showing you that he cares, he's proud to be seen with you in public, and he wants to be closer to you. Guys tend to express their feelings through physical displays of affection, so you might also notice light touches here and there on the arm, elbow, and back.^[9]
   
   • He could also start holding your hand while you're out in public—another way for him to express care and affection through physical gestures.

He invites you to hang out with his friends.

1. He's making you a bigger part of his life by introducing you to friends. Mixing friends and a potential partner is a big deal; it means he wants to see how well you fit with the other piece of his social life and vice versa. He likely wouldn't introduce you to his friends if he didn't want you all hanging out together for the long haul, implying that he plans to ask you to be his girlfriend soon.^[10]
   
   • He might even ask you to meet his family. Although everyone has a different pace, it's a good sign if he wants to introduce you to his relatives.

He spends most of his free time with you.

1. His schedule will start to fit yours when he wants to be a couple. A guy who wants to be your boyfriend will do whatever he can to see you often, even if that means rearranging his schedule so he can accommodate yours. He'll start considering you before he plans, asking you in advance if you'll be able to do things with him, and spending most of his free time with you.^[11]
   
   • It usually takes at least 2 months of casual dating for couples to make things official, but every pair is different! It’s more about the amount of time you spend together—so if he’s making every effort to see you, “the talk” isn't far behind.
   • This will be the case even if challenges come up or you live further apart. Whether it's a busy week at work or you live a few towns apart, he'll be eager to spend time with you regardless.
   • Do you spend a lot of weekends together? Weekends are a cherished time for people to rest and relax, so it's significant if he spends his weekends with you!

He gives you small gifts and makes sweet gestures.

1. A guy who does things just to please you is interested in a relationship. He might bring you simple but meaningful surprise gifts, stock his home with your favorite treats, or pick up a coffee for you just the way you like it. Every gesture he makes will prove just how well he knows you and has been listening to you when you talk about yourself—and attentiveness is a sure sign of interest.^[12]
   
   • Show lots of appreciation and thank him when he does something sweet for you. Try to return the favor and set up a healthy give and take in the relationship so both of you feel valued and happy.

He prioritizes your needs.

1. He'll rush to your aid no matter what if he's romantically invested. Think about your conversations: has he asked you to call or text him anytime if you need him? That's a big sign that he wants to be in a committed relationship. Furthermore, if he follows through and is ready to help you at the drop of a hat, it means he's already thinking of you as a girlfriend.^[13]
   
   • For example, a guy who prioritizes your needs will go the extra mile to pick you up from work if your car breaks down, or show up at your job with lunch if you’re too busy to get it yourself.

He apologizes first after a conflict.

1. A willingness to apologize means he doesn't want to lose you. No matter who is in the wrong (even if it's you), a guy who wants you to be his girlfriend will go out of his way to smooth things between you. He'll readily apologize and acknowledge his faults because he doesn't want to let the argument come between you.
   
   • Likewise, accept his apology gracefully. If you might also be responsible for the disagreement, do your best to apologize to him too. Don't let any negative feelings fester, or they may affect the relationship later.^[14]

He wants more than just sex from the relationship.

1. As he opens up to you, he'll start to see a partner—not a hookup. Some relationships begin (and fizzle out) because they're based purely on attraction and sex. If he's really boyfriend material and wants you to be a girlfriend, he'll be more interested in forming a more profound connection based on emotional vulnerability than physical closeness. He'll openly express his feelings to you.^[15]
   
   • Does your guy discuss his hopes, fears, passions, concerns, and dreams with you? Does he tell you that he misses you when you're apart? He's expressing emotional vulnerability and wants to be closer to you.

He's always supportive of you.

1. If he sees you as a girlfriend, the things that matter to you matter to him. When you get a promotion at work or make a breakthrough in your latest project, he's the first to congratulate you and think of some fun way to celebrate. If you need advice or a pep talk, he's always there to hype you up and remind you how special you are. A guy who really likes you will act like your biggest fan!^[16]
   
   • Support him in return to solidify your bond and make him see what a great pair you’ll make. Cheer him on, let him vent when he needs to, and reassure him when he’s unsure of himself.

What Are Some Signs That the Person You're Dating Is Ready to Take Things to the Next Level?

Video

Tips

• There’s no correct way to enter a relationship with a guy. Sometimes it’s a natural process and you don’t even have to discuss it! Others want to have a talk about making the relationship official. While this usually happens after a couple of months (around 10 dates) it’s ultimately subjective. Don’t rush things: have fun, look for the above signs, and talk to him when it feels right.^[17]
• A guy who likes you will pay attention to you. He'll make an effort to talk to you, be playful, and joke around with you.^[18]

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about relationship cues, check out our in-depth with [v161182_b01].

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sex-matters/201810/are-we-exclusive-yet
2. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/dating-and-mating/201605/4-ways-you-can-turn-crush-relationship
3. ↑ [v161182_b02]. 27 November 2019.
4. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
5. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 18 November 2019.
6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ink-blots-cartoons/201706/how-compliment-beautiful-people-better
7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29624443/
8. ↑ https://www.southuniversity.edu/news-and-blogs/2016/08/the-psychology-behind-love-and-romance-70700
9. ↑ [v161182_b02]. 27 November 2019.
10. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/tips-for-finding-lasting-love.htm
11. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/liking-the-child-you-love/201607/seven-signs-hes-really-in-love-you
12. ↑ [v161265_b01]. 7 February 2020.
13. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201403/11-ways-tell-if-your-lover-loves-you
14. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/relationship-help.htm
15. ↑ https://www.scienceofpeople.com/someone-likes-you/
16. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-art-of-a-heartfelt-apology-2021041322366
17. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sex-matters/201810/are-we-exclusive-yet
18. ↑ [v161147_b01]. 18 November 2019.

How to Mew

A guide to the controversial jaw-shaping technique

All kinds of beauty hacks go viral on TikTok and one of the most popular is mewing. Mewing is an at-home technique meant to firm and reshape your jaw, which is accomplished by firmly pressing your tongue to the roof of your mouth. While not backed by science, many supporters have reported positive results, including firmer jaws and defined cheekbones. Keep reading to learn all about mewing, including how to do it, pros and cons, and face-shaping alternatives.

Things You Should Know

• Mewing is a method of reshaping your jawline that involves pressing your tongue to the roof of your mouth.
• To mew, close your mouth and lightly press your teeth together, then push your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
• Mewing supposedly helps with jaw and breathing problems, though it has no scientific evidence.

Steps

What is mewing?

1. Mewing is a beauty technique meant to change the shape of your jawline. Named after Dr. John Mew, a British orthodontist, the facial reconstruction technique involves pushing your tongue against the roof of your mouth with the intention of giving your jaw a more defined look. It’s meant to be an at-home alternative to orthognathic surgery and other orthopedics. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this.^[1]
   
   • Mewing has gone viral across social media platforms, with over 2 billion views on TikTok alone. The technique’s popularity grew when John Mew’s son, Michael Mew, started posting videos about it on his YouTube channel. Viewers hoped and believed mewing would give them jawlines similar to influencers and models like Bella Hadid.^[2]
   • Please note that Dr. John Mew was stripped of his dental license by the General Dental Council for publicly criticizing traditional orthodontics and running false advertisements suggesting the GDC supported mewing.^[3] His son, Michael Mew, was also expelled from the British Orthodontic Society for advocating his father’s theories.

How to Mew

1. Position your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Sit up straight and make sure your neck is in a straight, comfortable position. Close your mouth and press your tongue against the roof of your mouth, keeping it flat and engaged. Keep your mouth closed throughout the entire process.^[4]
   
   • Before mewing, seek professional guidance from a medical expert to determine if the technique is safe for you to do. If your doctor approves, go ahead and give it a try. If they don’t, it’s better to try a different method for your safety.
2. Push your tongue as hard as you can. Allow your teeth to touch lightly, like you’re just biting down, and forcefully press your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Make sure you’re not clenching or grinding your teeth.^[5]
   
3. Hold the position for a few minutes. Keep pushing your tongue as hard as you can for 2 or 3 minutes. Then, relax slightly to where you’re only using half the force. Keep this position for another couple of minutes, then halve the force again. Repeat this process several times until the action is very light.^[6]
   

Does mewing actually work?

1. Mewing temporarily makes your jawline look more defined. When you’re actively holding the pose, your jaw may appear tighter and more defined. This works well if you want to look a certain way for a photo, but there is no scientific evidence that mewing permanently tightens your jawline.^[7]
   
   • Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many social media influencers have shared positive results from the method, claiming mewing slimmed down their cheeks and increased cheekbone definition.
   • Some supporters also claim mewing benefits include helping with jaw pain, breathing, and orthodontic issues. Some even say it helps with sleep apnea. Again, however, there is no credible research to prove these claims.^[8]
   • Many doctors advise against mewing, especially for long periods of time, because it can cause harm to your mouth and jaw. Keeping your teeth pressed together may cause them to wear down and lead to cracks in the enamel, and the unnatural positions of your tongue and jaw may lead to neck and mouth pain and the misalignment of your teeth.

Alternatives to Mewing

1. Try gua sha. Gua sha is a traditional Chinese technique in which you scrape your skin with a stone tool to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Slowly drag your gua sha tool upward across your jawline, cheeks, forehead, and eyes to promote lymphatic drainage and tighten your skin.^[9]
   
   • Typically, people use gua sha tools made of jade or rose quartz.
   • The term gua sha translates to “to scrape away illness.”
   • While gua sha is an important traditional practice and is still used by many today, know that its benefits currently have little scientific evidence.
2. Get a lifting and firming facial massage. Give yourself a facial massage or get one from a professional. Start by moisturizing your face, then sweep your fingers down the bridge of your nose and under your eyes. Use the same process for your cheeks, forehead, and chin, moving your fingers upward and outward in a circular motion. The process is similar to that of gua sha, just without a tool.^[10]
   
   • Since you’re trying to lift and sculpt your face, never pull your skin downward while massaging.
3. Wear a “jaw bra” face mask. Also known as face bras, jaw bras are trendy beauty products that are worn like face masks—they go under your chin and hook around your ears. They’re meant to tighten your skin and sculpt your jaw, and they work by compressing the chin and decreasing the amount of lymphatic fluid in the area.^[11]
   
   • Jaw bras are typically made of a woven cotton material similar to that of athletic tape and are infused with skin-soothing ingredients like niacinamide and peppermint. In addition to sculpting your chin, they may also hydrate your skin.
   • Like mewing, jaw bras only temporarily sculpt your jaw, and results usually fade after 3 hours or so.
   • Wearing a jaw bra occasionally is mostly harmless, but using one frequently can reduce muscle tone, which in turn will make your skin sag more.
4. Consult your dermatologist or orthodontist for a permanent solution. Since mewing only temporarily tightens your jaw and shouldn’t be done for long periods, it’s best to see a professional if you want permanent results. Ask your dermatologist about in-office skin-tightening treatments, or visit your orthodontist to correct jaw positioning or teeth alignment.^[12]
   

Video

Warnings

• Do not attempt to mew if you have TMJ or other significant jaw joint problems, as the technique could cause them to worsen.
• To avoid causing mouth or jaw damage, always consult with a doctor before practicing mewing.

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.joms.org/article/S0278-2391(19)30349-0/fulltext#articleInformation
2. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/what-is-mewing
3. ↑ https://www.joms.org/article/S0278-2391(19)30349-0/fulltext#articleInformation
4. ↑ https://www.lorealparisusa.com/beauty-magazine/beauty-tips/beauty-looks/does-the-mewing-technique-work
5. ↑ https://www.lorealparisusa.com/beauty-magazine/beauty-tips/beauty-looks/does-the-mewing-technique-work
6. ↑ https://youtu.be/DQa8touBzQQ?t=76
7. ↑ https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/what-is-mewing
8. ↑ https://www.health.com/mewing-7098082
9. ↑ https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/alternative-treatments/gua-sha-facial-stone-benefits
10. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/lymphatic-drainage-massage
11. ↑ https://www.facialartistrymd.com/blog/dr-konstantin-in-popsugar-jawline-needs-a-little-lift-the-jaw-bra-could-be-your-new-bff/
12. ↑ https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/is-mewing-bad-for-you/

How to Hand Emoji Meanings

Your guide to every hand emoji’s popular uses (with examples)

There seems to be an emoji for everything these days, and a lot of them are interpreted differently based on who you’re talking to (for example, your great-aunt and your bestie may use the 🍑 (peach) emoji in…very different ways). When it comes to hand emojis, there’s a five-fingered option for practically any expression you could want. Still, it can be hard to tell what each hand emoji really means. You may want to take notes ✍️ on this definitive guide to every single hand emoji meaning 👏 🙌 💪

Steps

👋 (Waving Hand) Emoji

1. The 👋 emoji is used to say hello or goodbye. It can be used in any greeting or farewell scenario. The “Waving Hand” emoji may also be used jokingly. For example, if your friend was teasing you about something, you could say, “I’m out of here” with the 👋 emoji.
   
   • Example Text: “Hey! 👋 It was nice to meet you this morning!”

✋ (Raised Hand) Emoji

1. The ✋ emoji is meant to say “stop.” Just like you might hold up your hand to ask someone to stop in real life, you can do the same thing over text with this emoji. Or, you can use this emoji to express a high five (although the two-handed 🙏 emoji is more often used for this purpose).
   • In virtual meetings or classes, the “Raised Hand” emoji is used to communicate that you have a question.
   • Example Text: “That’s enough, you can talk to the hand ✋”

🤚 (Raised Back of Hand) Emoji

1. The 🤚 emoji may mean agreement with a current topic. It could also be used to communicate that you’re voting in favor of something or to ask for a high five! Since the “Raised Back of Hand” emoji looks almost identical to the “Raised Hand” emoji, it doesn’t have a lot of popular meanings or uses.
   
   • Example Text: “You can count me in! 🤚”

🖐️ (Hand with Fingers Splayed) Emoji

1. The 🖐️ emoji can be used to show the number 5. For this reason, it’s one of the emoji options used to give virtual high fives (along with 🤚, ✋, and 🙏). Other people may use it to say “hi” or “stop” instead of using the more common 👋 and ✋ emojis, respectively.
   • Example Text: “You’re being so annoying like can u stop 🖐️”

🫲 🫱 (Leftwards/Rightwards Hand) Emoji

1. The 🫲 🫱 emojis may indicate someone lending a helping hand. They may also be used to signify a pat, touch, tap, or indicate a certain direction. You could also use these emojis to say you want to make a deal.
   • Functionally, the “Leftward Hand” and “Rightward Hand” emojis were created to depict a handshake with two different skin tones, which isn’t possible through the standard “Handshake” emoji (🤝).^[1]
   • Example Text: “Deal? 🫱🏿🫲🏽”

🫳 (Palm Down Hand) Emoji

1. The 🫳 emoji may mean that someone has dropped something. They may be reaching for a lost object or reaching out to someone. Depending on cultural context, the “Palm Down Hand” emoji could also indicate dismissal, negotiation, or beckoning.^[2]
   
   • Example Text: “Oops, I dropped my ability to care 🫳”

🫴 (Palm Up Hand) Emoji

1. The 🫴 emoji can represent lifting or offering something up. Depending on cultural context, it may also be used to show that someone is demanding or beckoning for something or someone. Other texters may use it to express the upward-palm gesture used during meditation.
   • Example Text: “Get ready to fork it over 🫴”

🫸 🫷 (Leftwards/Rightwards Pushing Hand) Emojis

1. The 🫸 🫷 emojis can signify rejection or caution. They may be used to ask someone to stop or communicate that you’re holding yourself back from something. Most commonly, however, these two emojis are used together to create a high five.
   • Example Text: "Nice job in the game today! 🫸 🫷"

👌 (OK Hand) Emoji

1. The 👌 emoji represents agreement or contentment. It’s a visual way of saying, “I’m okay,” “That’s correct,” or “Sounds good.” In rare situations, the “OK Hand” may be used when telling someone how little you care (e.g., you care the same amount as the space between the emoji’s bent fingers).
   
   • As of 2019, the American Definition League added the “OK Hand” to its glossary of extremist hate symbols due to its use by white supremacy groups.^[3]
   • While this may be an alternative meaning of this emoji, its overwhelming usage and meaning is still to show approval or indicate that someone is okay.^[4]
   • Example Text: “Meeting at noon sounds perfect 👌”

✌️ (Victory Sign) Emoji

1. The ✌️ emoji is more commonly known as the peace sign. The peace sign emoji is used to say goodbye or goodnight to people, playing off the English farewell phrase “peace out.”
   • Depending on context, it could also be used to say, “I’m just chilling,” “peace be with you,” or to indicate the number 2.
   • Example Text: “Alright, I’m logging off for the night ✌️”

🖖 (Vulcan Salute) Emoji

1. The 🖖 emoji’s meaning should be clear to any Star Trek fans. This emoji is known as the “Spock” emoji due to its use by the beloved Star Trek character. In the sci-fi franchise (and in emoji-speak), the Vulcan Salute is a greeting with the meaning “Live long and prosper.”^[5]
   • Example Text: “Hello, I come in peace 🖖”

🤞 (Crossed Fingers Hand) Emoji

1. The 🤞is used to wish someone luck. You may also use it to wish for a certain result for yourself. Like the 🙏 emoji, the “Crossed Fingers” emoji is a good option when you’re trying to manifest a specific outcome. Fingers crossed!
   
   • Example Text: “I really hope Jordan shows up to the party tonight 🤞”

🤏 (Pinching Hand) Emoji

1. The 🤏 emoji is used in place of the words “small” or “little.” You may use it to say that you want a small amount of something (like a dessert or drink). Or, you can use it to sarcastically say that you want something just a little bit (like a date with your crush).
   • The “Pinching Hand” emoji can also be used to indicate that something is very small, usually in a teasing way.^[6]
   • Example Text: “I’m this (🤏) close to a mental breakdown”

🤘 (Sign of the Horns) Emoji

1. The 🤘 is commonly used to mean “rock on.” It may be used when discussing concerts, music groups, or a general “rock and roll” approach to life. In some countries, however, like Spain, Greece, and Italy, the sign of the horns is a very vulgar gesture used to imply that someone’s partner is unfaithful.^[7]
   • The “Sign of the Horns” emoji is often confused with the “Love-You” hand emoji (🤟), but this rockstar symbol features a thumb folded across the rest of the hand.
   • Example Text: “Can’t wait for open mic night tonight 🤘🤘🤘”

🤟 (Love-You Hand) Emoji

1. The 🤟 emoji is used to say “I love you” to someone. This emoji comes from the American Sign Language hand sign that expresses love. The symbol is a combination of the ASL letters I-L-Y, which stands for “I love you.”^[8]
   
   • The Love-You hand emoji is often confused with the 🤘 emoji, which is often used to say “Rock on!”
   • You can tell these two emojis apart because the love emoji has the thumb pointing outward in the shape of the letter “L” as in “love.”
   • Example Text: “Plane’s about to take off! Love you!! 🤟”

🫰 (Index Finger & Thumb Crossed) Emoji

1. The 🫰 emoji represents love or money. When talking about money, this emoji is similar to how people will rub two fingers together like they’re asking for cash. Or, it can be used to symbolize love as it resembles “finger hearts” popular among K-Pop stans in South Korea.^[9]
   • Example Text: “I can’t believe you love BTS as much as I do!! 🫰🫰🫰”

🫶 (Heart Hands) Emoji

1. The 🫶 emoji expresses love and support. You may send the “Heart Hands” emoji in lieu of a classic heart emoji, especially to close friends who need a little extra love.
   • More recently, this millennial version of the real-life heart hand gesture has gotten a lot of use in representing Taylor Swift’s Fearless album era.
   • Example Text: “You’re gonna crush it at your interview today, ily!! 🫶🫶🫶”

🤙 (Call Me Hand) Emoji

1. The 🤙 emoji officially means “call me” or “hit me up.” But this emoji is much more commonly used as the shaka emoji, which means “hang loose.” Use this friendly and ~super chill~ emoji to express some laid-back and lighthearted energy.
   
   • Example Text: “Can’t wait to get the gang together later 🤙”

👉 👈 (Index Pointing Left/Right) Emojis

1. The 👉 👈 emojis are almost always used together. They could be used separately to point in a certain direction or to fulfill the same function as an arrow. However, they’re commonly used with the 🥺 emoji to say that someone is a “simp” or is “simping.”^[10]
   • “Simp” is a slang term referring to someone who’s crushing hard on someone else. They’ll do nearly anything for the object of their affection, and the term is sometimes used as an insult.
   • Example Text: “I’m dropping off some Ben and Jerry’s at Lola’s house 🥺👉👈”

☝️ (Index Pointing Up) Emoji

1. The ☝️ emoji may represent the number one. However, it can also be used to indicate that someone wants to ask a question or as a way to say, “Hold on” or “Wait one second.” Among younger generations, it can mean that you really want to “turn up” that night.
   • In slang, “turn up” or “get turnt” means to go out partying or drink a lot of alcohol.
   • Example Text: “I’m still the number ☝️!!”

👇 (Index Pointing Down) Emoji

1. The 👇 indicates that someone should look downward. It’s often used on social media sites as a nudge look down, usually so the reader can follow a link below or read someone’s long caption.
   
   • The “Index Pointing Down” emoji may also be used in an expression like “We’re getting down tonight,” which means to enjoy oneself (usually on the dance floor).
   • Example Text: “You should check out this video 👇”

🫵 (Index Pointing at the Viewer) Emoji

1. The 🫵 emoji emphasizes the word “YOU.” This slightly-aggressive emoji is sent when you really want to underline the other person’s role in the context of your conversation.
   • For example, you might be telling your roommate that it’s their turn to clean the bathroom, or you may be telling your bestie that they’re the greatest of all time.
   • Example Text: “I’m cool, but THE coolest?? That’s you 🫵”

🖕 (Middle Finger) Emoji

1. The 🖕 has the same meaning as the real-life hand gesture. Basically, it’s a rude, vulgar way to show anger, rage, or rebellion. However, friends and other close individuals may use the “Middle Finger” emoji in a joking or playful way.
   • Example Text: “Do you want to hang out later?” “Lol, no🖕”

👍 (Thumbs Up) Emoji

1. The 👍 emoji signals approval. Many texters use it as a substitute for typing out “yes” or “sounds good.” However, while the “Thumbs Up” emoji usually expresses agreement or contentment, some people may use it sarcastically to mean that they actually dislike whatever’s being discussed.
   
   • Example Text: “I’m so down for an iced coffee later 👍”

👎 (Thumbs Down) Emoji

1. The 👎 emoji indicates disapproval. It’s almost never used sarcastically, so you can pretty much assume whoever’s using it is giving you a very firm no. For example, if you text your partner that you’re serving up collard greens for dinner, they may hit you with the “Thumbs Down” reaction emoji.
   • Example Text: “Mom told me that we’re on dish-cleaning duty tonight 👎”

✊ (Raised Fist) Emoji

1. The ✊ is a sign of solidarity and resistance. While the “Raised Fist” emoji could also be interpreted as a celebratory gesture (i.e., a fist pump), it’s most closely associated with a show of empowerment, civil disobedience, and support for historically marginalized groups.^[11]
   • Especially when used with the emoji’s darker skin tone variants, the ✊ is used to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement.
   • However, white allies of this social movement typically use all skin tone versions together so as to avoid appropriation: ✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽✊🏼✊🏻
   • Example Text: “We won’t be silenced ✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽✊🏼✊🏻”

👊 (Oncoming Fist) Emoji

1. The 👊 is often used to represent a fist bump. You may text it to someone in the same sort of situation as you would give them a fist bump, handshake, or high five in real life. It can be a symbol of respect, approval, or excitement.^[12]
   
   • However, the “Oncoming Fist” emoji can also represent wanting to punch someone, but we prefer the first meaning.
   • Example Text: “Love you bro 👊”

🤜 🤛 (Left/Right-Facing Fist) Emoji

1. The 🤜 🤛 emojis represent a fist-bump. When used together, the “Left-Facing Fist” and “Right-Facing Fist” emojis can convey a fist bump over text, which is a gesture used to express congratulations or friendship, like a handshake or high five.
   • Example Text: “So glad we’re in this together 🤜 🤛”

👏 (Clapping Hands) Emoji

1. The 👏 emoji is the texting version of applause. You may be sending the “Clapping Hands” emoji to congratulate someone on a recent achievement.
   • Occasionally, texters may use this applause emoji to sarcastically imply that someone doesn’t really deserve a congratulations.
   • Example Text: “Heard you made it to the chess finals! Nice going! 👏👏👏”

🙌 (Raising Hands) Emoji

1. The 🙌 emoji signifies a celebration. While some people have misread this emoji as a “praise” or “prayer,” this isn’t the intent or dominant use. Rather, the “Raising Hands” or “Hands Up” emoji is used to express pride, excitement, or victory! Gimme 10!^[13]
   
   • Example Text: “Can’t wait to get lit tonight! 🙌”

🤲 (Palms Up Together) Emoji

1. The 🤲 emoji commonly represents praying or begging. The two hands are cupped together to indicate that someone is asking for something to be deposited in their hands, whether figuratively or literally.^[14]
   • The “Palms Up Together” could also be interpreted as the prayer gesture used by followers of Islam or as the American Sign Language sign for an open book.
   • Example Text: “Please let the Steelers make it to the Super Bowl this year 🤲”

👐 (Open Hands) Emoji

1. The 👐 emoji represents openness. It’s often used to represent a hug, similar to the “Hugging Face” emoji (🤗).^[15] Other texters may use the “Open Hands” emoji as a celebratory display of jazz hands, an excited gesture typically used in the musical theater crowd.
   • This emoji is also associated with the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, as it resembles the “W” hand sign used by members and their fans.
   • Example Text: “I wish I could hug you right now 👐”

🙏 (Folded Hands) Emoji

1. The 🙏 emoji is said to symbolize “please” or “thank you.” This meaning comes from the use of the gesture in Japanese culture. However, most people use it as a “prayer” or “praise hands” emoji. Less frequently, it may be referred to as a “high five” emoji.
   
   • Texters most often use the “Folded Hands” emoji to show they’re really hoping for something.
   • The 🙏 emoji is often confused with the 🙌 emoji because both can be used to express prayer.
   • Example Text: “I really need to ace this math test tomorrow 🙏”

🤝 (Handshake) Emoji

1. The 🤝 emoji’s official use is to indicate a polite greeting. However, it’s more commonly used to show you’ve made a deal or found a trusted partner. While the “Handshake Emoji” may be used in business settings, it can also be used in a jokey, faux-formal way among friends when they’ve decided on a plan or made an agreement.^[16]
   • Example Text: “Pleasure doing business with you 🤝”

🤌 (Pinched Fingers) Emoji

1. The 🤌 emoji is more commonly referred to as the “Italian emoji.” Officially called the “Pinched Fingers” emoji, this image resembles the Italian hand gesture called ma che vuoi or the “finger purse.” Italians may use this gesture to express disagreement, frustration, disbelief, or as a substitute for saying “What do you want?”
   • In other contexts, this gesture could be used to say something is excellent or tasty, as in “chef’s kiss.”
   • Outside of Italy, other cultures use this gesture for other meanings. In Israeli culture, for example, it can mean “hold on,” “relax,” or “be patient.”
   • Example Text: “The cacio e pepe at that place is chef’s kiss 🤌”

✍️ (Writing Hand) Emoji

1. The ✍️ emoji can represent writing in any context. It may be used to say “take notes,” whether in a joking or serious way. It could also be used in between words to teasingly say that someone is taking notes from what the other person is saying.
   
   • Example Text: “Don’t✍️do✍️anything✍️you✍️wouldn’t✍️do✍️. Got it.”

💅 (Nail Polish) Emoji

1. The 💅 emoji is used to express a nonchalant attitude. Use this emoji to say something was no biggie and that you stay unbothered! Of course, some people may use this emoji for its literal meaning, i.e., they’ve gone to get their nails done.
   • Example Text: “What, like it’s hard? 💅”

💪 (Flexed Bicep) Emoji

1. The 💪 emoji is used in conversations about strength or exercise. The user may add it to a text that says they’re hitting the gym later. Alternatively, someone could use it when bragging about some skill or achievement, like adding a literal flex to their text.
   
   • Example Text: “Looking forward to arm day tomorrow 💪”

Video

Tips

• When using hand emojis, choose whichever skin tone you feel best reflects your racial and ethnic identity. Most texters use the color that most closely matches their IRL skin color.^[17]

References

1. ↑ https://emojiterra.com/rightwards-hand/
2. ↑ https://www.coralgablescavaliers.org/ourpages/users/099346/IB%20Theory%20of%20Knowledge/Bastian%20Chapter%2006/Bastian%206/Gestures%20Nonverbal%20Communication%20and%20Body%20Language.pdf
3. ↑ https://extremismterms.adl.org/resources/hate-symbol/okay-hand-gesture
4. ↑ https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-49837898
5. ↑ https://time.com/3817430/iphone-vulcan-salute-emoji/
6. ↑ https://www.the-sun.com/tech/7018559/what-is-the-pinching-hand-emoji/
7. ↑ https://www.shermanstravel.com/advice/18-gestures-that-can-cause-offense-around-the-world
8. ↑ https://www.novagraaf.com/en/insights/i-love-you-emoji-trademark-devoid-distinctive-character-says-euipo
9. ↑ https://hypebae.com/2021/7/emojis-unicode-14-0-apple-google-diversity-inclusivity-release-info
10. ↑ https://stayhipp.com/glossary/emoji/%F0%9F%A5%BA-pleading-face-shy-simp-emoji-%F0%9F%A5%BA/
11. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/emoji/raised-fist-emoji/
12. ↑ https://blog.hootsuite.com/instagram-emoji/
13. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/emoji/raising-hands-emoji/
14. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/e/emoji/palms-up-together-emoji/
15. ↑ https://emojiguide.com/blog/hug-emoji/
16. ↑ https://www.smartprix.com/bytes/a-guide-to-emojis-types-of-emojis-what-do-they-mean-how-to-use-them/#gestures-people-emoji
17. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2022/02/09/1078977416/race-chat-emoji-skin-tone-colors