How to shake hands properly

How do the most relationships start? With a greeting. There are multiple ways of greeting someone. Could be a handshake, a kiss, a handkiss, nodding of the head, a bow, a hug, taking of your hat, waving, winking en saluting.

Did you know there are tribes who greet each other by touching the genitalia? Hmmm... 

Let's focus on handshaking for now.  In the modern world it is one of the most common ways to greet. Wether it be at a first meeting or between old friends.

Original it came from the knights showing good fate and 'saying': I bare no arms. So you could say it was a sign of trust or reconciliation.

How do we shake hands in a good way, some tips:

• Offer a straight hand, do not offer it in a flat way or tilted. Also offer your hand coming from below the waist, not down from the chest.
• Move your head and body slightly forward. Try the opposite, it looks very weird...
• Make eye contact and smile sincerely at the same time
• When in England and people ask 'how do you do?' you should answer with the same question.
• The handshake may be firm but pay attention to ladies or people wearing jewellery. 
• Don't shake too long as it is sometimes perceived as awkward.
• Last but not least, never turn your hand upwards while shaking. It is a dominating gesture.