The symbolism of yoga postures as concrete representations of inner spiritual dispositions has long fascinated me. One prime example is the corpse pose, on the surface a very simple relaxation posture. The letting-go in relaxation is in and of itself significant; the entire front of my body being open and vulnerable is a position of great trust, calling to mind the trust in God that is the ground of my faith. Conscious awareness of how I am supported by the earth beneath my back recalls both my connectedness with all of creation and the unfailing support of God's love. Focusing on nothing but my breath entering my body reminds me of how there is nothing essential to life that is not provided through God's love for me. Finally, my open and upward-facing palms are a gesture of gratitude and of readiness to receive the gifts of love and grace.

Carolyn Cronk, Prayer of Heart and Body by Thomas Ryan