It was one of the day’s most memorable photographs – a snap of Prince Harry and a beaming Meghan Markle clasping hands while sitting together in the sand.
The royal couple were visiting Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach on Oct. 19 as part of their 16-day tour.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been notable for their displays of open affection during their royal tour – something that the British Royal Family has not been known for in the past.
But according to Australian body language expert Louise Mahler, there’s more to Harry and Meghan’s Bondi Beach handclasp than meets the eye.
“Most obvious at first in this picture is the soft and direct eye contact,” Louise told New Idea.
“The way Harry is affixed to Meghan as if captivated by her.
“His eyes don’t look like that are blinking, but gazing lovingly into her face.
“Then you notice the relaxed jaws and the open mouths.
“Our stress tends to run through the tempo-mandibular faster than the speed of light. Having this relaxed and the jaw open means there’s no tension, no concern between them.”
The expert noted that Harry’s legs were “relaxed and open with his feet buried in the sand”.
“Most importantly we see the couple’s hands,” Louise continued.
“Harry is reaching across Meghan’s whole body as if to pull her closer to him but his hand is relaxed and soft on her thigh.
“Likewise, Meghan’s hands rest peacefully around his.”
