Shifting from one foot to the other

[Adam Cruge]

I was reading a story book, where I came across this line.
Quote:
When she smiled at him, he shifted from one foot to the other, thinking how lovely she looked.
Context: They met in a park. They were talking when this line occurred. Even after this line they were also talking.


What is the meaning of "Shifting from one foot to the other"?

 

[emsr2d2]

I was reading a story book, where I came across this line.
Quote:
When she smiled at him, he shifted from one foot to the other, thinking how lovely she looked.
Context: They met in a park. They were talking when this line occurred. Even after this line they were also talking.


What is the meaning of "Shifting from one foot to the other"?

It means he moved the weight of his body alternately between his left foot and his right foot. It suggests that he was feeling affected by how lovely she looked. He may have felt emotional, shy, overwhelmed, affectionate etc. This kind of movement, though, simply means that he's not standing completely still but moving the upper part of his body to the left and right, but his feet probably stayed on the ground.