Are they lying? Listen to body language

People lie. The lies may be small and harmless, or they may be big and serious. But even the little ones can be destructive in a relationship if they're frequent. So how do you know if you're being hoodwinked? Well, what does your gut tell you? Pay attention to it. Also, body language can be a dead giveaway. According to The Nest, here's six of the most common physical indications of deception. (Not included: wide "who, me?" eyes, which is an oldie but a goodie.) While one or two are likely meaningless, if you see enough of them repeatedly, you should probably be concerned.

1. Covering the mouth while talking. It's as if they're subconsciously repressing the untruths they're spouting. It may be as blatant as completely concealing the mouth or as subtle as a single finger placed in front of the lips.

2. Touching the nose. Scientists have found that lying can cause the tissue in the nose to swell, meaning that a quick stroke could be a sign of deceit (or that it's allergy season).

3. Rubbing an eye. When lying to someone, the instinct is to look away in shame. Since that's a dead giveaway, many people content themselves with a fast wipe of the peepers.

4. Touching an ear. Just as you're supposed to see no evil, you should hear no evil as well. These nervous gestures can range from a small rub of the back of the ear to an outright yank of the ear lobe.

5. Going for the neck. Research has found lying can cause a tingling in the tissues of the neck, leading to scratching or pulling the collar. It signals that the speaker is feeling uncertainty, so be concerned if you see it right after your woman announces, "Of course this Prada dress was on the sales rack at TJ Maxx."

6. Shaking the head no while saying yes. If he says, "Yep, I'm getting home late because I have a big assignment to finish" while nodding his head, he's working late. If he sends the mixed message of saying yes while shaking his head no, check the strip clubs.