Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Health"

To sign 'health,' start with both hands open and fingers slightly bent, resting on your chest near your collarbones. Pull both hands forward and away from your body while simultaneously closing them into 'S' handshapes (fists). The motion should be firm, looking as if you are pulling strength or vitality from your chest.

Examples Using "Health" in a Sentence

1

Eating vegetables is good for your health.

Sign 'eat', 'vegetable', 'good', 'for', 'your', and finish with the sign for 'health'.

2

I hope you are in good health.

Sign 'I', 'hope', 'you', 'health', and then 'good'.

3

He works in health care.

Sign 'he', 'work', 'health', and 'take-care'.

How to Sign "Health"
To sign 'health,' start with both hands open and fingers slightly bent, resting on your chest near your collarbones. Pull both hands forward and away from your body while simultaneously closing them into 'S' handshapes (fists). The motion should be firm, looking as if you are pulling strength or vitality from your chest.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'health' is visually related to concepts of strength and vitality. The motion of pulling from the chest and forming solid fists represents drawing out inner physical well-being and robustness, physically demonstrating a strong, healthy body.
Signing Tips
Focus on the crispness of the movement. The transition from the open handshape on the chest to the closed fists should be smooth but firm, reflecting the concept of strength. Ensure both hands move symmetrically and finish with solid fists.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is not fully closing the hands into fists at the end of the movement, which can make the sign look unclear. Another mistake is starting the sign too low on the stomach; make sure your hands start up high near your collarbones.
Regional Variations
Some signers may use an initialized version of this sign by forming 'H' handshapes and making a similar movement from the chest. However, the traditional, non-initialized version shown here is widely preferred and understood across the Deaf community.
Examples Using "Health" in a Sentence
1

Eating vegetables is good for your health.

Sign 'eat', 'vegetable', 'good', 'for', 'your', and finish with the sign for 'health'.

2

I hope you are in good health.

Sign 'I', 'hope', 'you', 'health', and then 'good'.

3

He works in health care.

Sign 'he', 'work', 'health', and 'take-care'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'health' the same as 'healthy'?

Yes, the sign for 'health' is also used for 'healthy' and 'heal.' The exact meaning is usually clear from the context of your sentence.

Can I sign this with just one hand?

No, 'health' is a two-handed symmetrical sign. Using both hands is necessary to convey the full meaning and ensure you are clearly understood.

Is this sign related to 'brave'?

Yes! The sign for 'health' is very similar to 'brave' or 'courage.' Both signs use the same movement of pulling from the chest into fists to represent inner strength and vitality.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!