Think about all the communication we can do with our hands aside from sign language even. As we prepare to go to Singapore we are trying to learn some of the cultural dos and don'ts. There are many things for us to consider regarding our hands.
Use your right hand only for social interaction, eating and exchanging gifts. For the Muslim and Indian community the left hand is used only for bathroom chores and it is considered dirty. Never eat with your left hand, uh-oh, both of our boys are left handed, this could be an issue. All gestures should be made with your right hand, never point with just one finger, your thumb or your whole hand is acceptable and it is more polite to point with your knuckle.
Give and receive money, credit cards and business cards with two hands. This is a Chinese custom that is done to symbolise how "precious and valuable" the item you are giving and receiving is.
Other than the pointing which I will have to look into more, this all makes sense the trick will be to remember to not use that left hand and use both when giving and receiving. Have you had any experience with "hand issues"?
This is sooo true! In addition, most meals we just eat with our right hand (no utensils). I don't think they do that in Singapore. When we first arrived, we sat on our left hand to keep from using it. It seemed strange in the beginning, but honestly it becomes natural. I don't even think about it anymore. -Kim
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