In this position and state of mind, one's attachment to self is lessened. The mind tends to be clearer, problems come more sharply into focus and they fade away more quickly. When such sentiments arise it is also easier for humans to come in contact with deities. Whether such deities really exist is not the issue. Still, we cannot say that religion is merely superstition and dismiss or deny the existence of a spirit realm. There are indeed other realms and humans do interact with beings of these realms, whether we are aware of it or not. For this reason alone, prostrations are useful. It is a way of transcending our human limitations and getting in touch with a spiritual reality.

In the Buddha's time, people became disciples by doing two things. First, they took refuge in the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha); second, they showed courtesy and respect to the Buddha. Courtesy involves a ritualistic gesture or action, whereas respect is more of a mental attitude.

Taking refuge in or showing gratitude to the Three Jewels is a symbolic action most Buddhists are familiar with. It is done through courtesy and respect in two distinct ways. One is by making offerings and the other is through ritual. Ritual respect can be shown in any number of ways, but the simplest is to join palms, gaze at the forefingers and bow. A more profound gesture than this is prostration.