WORSHIP POSTURES
Engaging your body as you engage your heart
Adapted from pages 276-277 of Spiritual Disciplines Handbook by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun. First edition copyright (c) 2005 by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove, IL. www.ivpress.com
Use your body and heart as you worship. You could listen to music such as “Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” (Casting Crowns), or a song of your choice. If you are in a difficult season, consider listening to “Praise You in this Storm” (also Casting Crowns). Another option is to read a scripture. If you have a scripture you are engaged with, feel free to use it, or bring back an old favorite like Palm 23.
Choose a worshipful position (or positions) for this song or verse. One good worship position is “child’s pose,” often used in yoga.
Other positions to consider include:
Standing – honoring God and giving him your full attention.
Hands in prayer position over the center of your chest – expressing adoration.
Wrap arms around yourself – experiencing the embrace and delight of God.
Outstretched arms or arms lifted – bringing your awareness to and opening the core of your body toward God.
Uplifted eyes – drawing your attention towards heaven’s realities, not your own.
One hand on chest, the other raised with open palm – demonstrating your heart connection to God.
Kneeling – expressing humility and reverence.
Prostrate (lying face down or bowing low) – showing submission and obedient worship.
More opportunities:
Click here for lyrics to Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus or Praise You in this Storm.
For more ideas, explore Praying with the Body by Roy DeLeon, Paraclete Press, 2009.
Would you like to experience a more lively worship using your body? Try Worshiping with Dance.
Are you interested in a guided worship postures experience? Check this out!
Enjoy this simple body prayer from Julian of Norwich.