Full prostrations
Three prostrations infer deep respect for Buddha’s teachings. By performing three full prostrations, one expresses his/her intention to adhere to The Three Jewels - the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. Likewise, the act symbolizes the discarding of the Three Poisons - hatred, ignorance and excess.
Practioners will press the elbows, knees and forehead to the ground when prostrating. In Tibet, however, prostrations involve touching all five body parts (head, legs, arms, chest and abdomen) to the ground. The posture is intended to symbolically release the ego and respect the Buddha and other sentient beings:
Put the palms of your hands together with the thumbs aligned and tucked into the center of your palms. Your folded thumbs represent offering a wish-fulfilling jewel to the Buddhas.
Touch your folded hands, with thumbs tucked inside the palms, to your crown, forehead (optional), neck, and heart as above.
Bend forward, place your hands flat upon the ground, lower your knees to the ground, and touch your forehead to the ground.
When standing up, first the head leaves the ground, then the knees, and finally the hands.
Begin the next prostration by immediately placing your folded hands on the crown of your head.