According to Osho, a 'symbolic gesture' is an outer act that signifies an inner reality or intention. He says his repeated glances at the watch don’t show concern with time—he lives in timelessness—but express compassion for listeners, so he doesn’t overrun. Likewise, relaxing dress rules lets true disciples reveal themselves freely; their choices silently symbolize inner commitment.
It means doing something on the outside to show what you truly feel or intend inside.