Communication between individuals takes place in many ways. It is not correct to believe that speech and words are the only way to send a message. Recent studies have shown that more than 80% of a signal transmitted through gestures, postures, and facial expressions. Knowledge of the non-verbal codes becomes an essential element for the traveler in wishing to have an authentic and respectful meeting with Mongolians.
While it takes time to assimilate these gestures, there are some essential things to know before you get in touch with the Mongolian people. As you can see, the codes of conduct on the steppe tend to disappear in the city, where Western culture is more and more present.
1- Be low profile. In some Western cultures, body language is omnipresent. Without shocking the Mongols, the excess of gestures perceived as a very exotic element (too much for some), which can disturb calm prevailing in the steppe. Avoid rapid, abrupt, and overly broad gestures.
2- Do not cross your legs. Either way, leave your feet on the floor and avoid bringing them closer to your head (in some cross-legs where one foot is resting on the other thigh.) The feet are seen as "bad" parts of the body and should not bring closure to the head.
3- Do not wear another person's hat or cap. Widespread belief in Mongolia is the soul of the individual found in the hat.
4- During your stay in the Mongolian countryside, enter the yurt without knocking on the door. It can make many of us uncomfortable, but your guide will show you how to put your annoyance aside.
5- Enter the Mongolian yurt without hanging on the threshold. Mongolian beliefs say that you can wake up evil spirits. Even if this belief is part of the tradition and popular belief, for the Mongols, nothing should disturb the fragile balance of the steppe.
6- When you touch someone's foot (on the bus, for example), you have touched their hand. You will not have this reflex, but do not be surprised if someone takes your hand for a brief moment.
7- To indicate that a person has drunk too much, the Mongols put a finger at the throat.
8- The way to receive a tea or an object is particular. Observe well! Whether you give or receive, just extend your right hand while placing your left hand under the elbow of your right arm. It is a respectful way of exchanging items. This way of doing things is not common in stores but is present in the Mongolian steppe, or families.
9-. Do not whistle inside the yurt.