/lit/ - Literature

Fellow writefags, I am in dire need for some advice. In my writing I struggle with describing of body language and gestures to press thought processes and emotions.
I aim to describe the motion rather mechanically to allow interpretation of the inner workings of the characters.
Consider the following exampe:

"She looked musingly and absentmindedly in the distance." (direct telling of emotion)
"Her finger rested on her lips" (indirect)

Steinbeck did this well in"grapes of Wrath" in my opinion.

Often it comes off as stilted or way too try-hard.
Are there any authors you would recommend for research purposes? Do you think it's worthwhile to read more about body language or do you know any reference on body language for writers in particular?

Body language thread.

Do you use body language analysis in day to day living? How has it helped you?

Is it worth knowing someone is lying if you can't call them out?

add tips, tricks, and stories of times spent observing body language.