Respect and other signs of physical affection. It is uncommon to see very many hand gestures being used in Chinese culture because this is often considered to be excessive. Traditionally, there was not much hand-shaking in Chinese culture. However, this gesture is now widely practiced among men, especially when greeting Westerners or other foreigners. Many Westerners may find Chinese handshakes to be too long or too weak, but this is because a weaker handshake is a gesture of humility and respect. Kowtowing, or kneeling and bowing so deeply that one's forehead is touching the floor, is practiced during worship at temples.
Bowing greetings. Bowing is a gesture of respect. Different bows are used for apologies and gratitude. Basic bows originate at the waist and are performed with the back straight and the hands at the sides (for men) or clasped in front (for women), and with the eyes down. Generally, bows can be divided into three main types: informal, formal, and very formal. Informal bows are made at about a fifteen degree angle and more formal bows at about thirty degrees. Very formal bows are deeper. In extreme cases a kneeling bow is performed, which may be so deep that the forehead