HOW PEOPLE SHRINK THEMSELVES IN ELEVATORS AND SHARED SUMO VANS

Stepping into a cramped elevator or a busy sumo van in Kathmandu, one quickly notices a curious change: people seem to physically shrink. Shoulders hunch, arms fold tightly, and legs tuck in closer. This instinctive contraction makes room for others and reflects the unspoken social rules of shared space.

This act of shrinking goes beyond simply reacting to tight quarters. It is a social behavior rooted in respect, privacy, and the cultural nuances of closeness in Nepal. In places like elevators or sumo vans, personal space disappears. Even in this unavoidable closeness, people silently negotiate boundaries. Shrinking oneself signals cooperation: “I see others, and I don’t want to crowd or overwhelm.” It expresses humility, a nonverbal apology for intruding on others’ comfort.

There is also a psychological aspect. Shrinking down reduces visibility and attention, letting individuals keep some privacy among strangers. When bodies contract, people create invisible shields, subtle barriers that help protect their personal space even when physical distance is lacking.

Gender and age often shape how people shrink. Women and older passengers tend to fold in more tightly, showing vulnerability or following social norms of modesty and respect. Young men may take up slightly more space but still adhere to unspoken rules about minimizing discomfort for others.

This bodily contraction is not fixed. People constantly adjust, shifting weight, turning shoulders, and rearranging limbs in a careful dance to maximize space and keep balance. It is a social skill learned through experience, passed down through the rhythms of daily life.

However, shrinking isn’t just about physical adaptation; it shows a shared understanding of living together. In a country where community is valued but individuality is respected, this subtle body language combines togetherness with personal dignity.

Next time you squeeze into a crowded elevator or pack into a sumo van, take a moment to notice how you and those around you instinctively make room. That small act of shrinking is more than a reflex. It is a daily practice of empathy, respect, and shared humanity in Nepal’s vibrant urban life.