During her tour aboard the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano, Princess Leonor made a significant stop in Valparaíso, Chile, along with her classmates from the Escuela Naval de Marín.
Although this trip is part of her training as a midshipman, it has also been an opportunity to discover new cultures, taste the local cuisine and show a close and authentic image, even in the midst of the media pressure that has surrounded her figure in recent days.
Princess Leonor’s body language in Chile
In this Chilean stopover, which ended last April 8, new official images of the princess in the port were released, where, despite wearing a cap that hides part of her face, it is evident that Leonor maintains a relaxed and positive attitude.
Several experts have pointed out that these images show the well-known “Duchenne smile”, an expression that betrays genuine happiness because it involves both the muscles of the mouth and those of the eyes.
For psychologist Paul Ekman, this type of smile is one of the most reliable indicators of genuine joy, as it is very difficult to fake consciously.
Despite the bad weather that has accompanied this part of the journey in the Pacific and the recent press attention for photographs of the princess in a bikini, Leonor seems to remain serene.
Her body language conveys calm, something that contrasts with the commotion outside. According to some observers, even in formal moments, Leonor manages to retain a positive energy that makes her stand out.
One of the most commented gestures occurred during a meal at the Chilean restaurant Don Emelio, a place that mixes Mediterranean and Spanish flavors.
In an image released by the establishment itself, the princess can be seen naturally embracing one of the workers of the place, a gesture that, although it may seem simple, is not usual in royal figures.
While many celebrities choose to maintain a certain distance in photos, using the famous “floating hand”, Leonor opted for a direct, close and spontaneous contact.
Body language specialist Mark Bowden has explained that these brief gestures, such as touching someone’s arm or shoulder, can generate an immediate emotional connection and convey warmth.
In public contexts, this type of attitude helps to break down the barrier between the public figure and the public, generating a sense of closeness that is not always easy to achieve.
Leonor is currently on her way to Peru aboard the Elcano training ship. The ship is expected to arrive at the port of El Callao between April 18 and 22.