The handshake is about 3000 years old, dating back to the 5th century B.C. in Greece. It was a greeting that showed the other person that you were not carrying a weapon and that your intent was peaceful.
It may have also been used to express the sealing of a bond or promise.
The handshake symbolizes connection, respect and comradery as well as “I’m happy to meet you or see you again.”
The reason we usually shake with the right hand is simply because most people
are right-handed. If you are shaking with your dominant hand, it is difficult to use a weapon at the same time.
Different cultures have different customs and in some countries a handshake is
not appropriate and may be frowned upon. In Japan, bowing with hands at your sides is the accepted way to greet someone.
Other ways to greet someone are a bow with the palms of the hands together, a kiss on both cheeks or a brief hug while clasping hands.
When two people spit on their hands and shake, it demonstrates a higher level of commitment than a dry handshake but less commitment than a blood oath. In Canada, a greeting is usually a firm handshake with eye contact, no more than three pumps and a smile.
The look in the eyes is important as it gives the other person the impression that you are genuinely happy to meet them.
First impressions are important; always show the other person that you are forthright and truthful even if you are anxious.
There is always the fist - bump which has become quite acceptable, especially since the pandemic.
High fives and secret handshakes are common between friends and families.
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