It is narrated from Sayyiduna Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "This is ikhlas (sincerity)," pointing with the finger next to his thumb; "and this is du'a (supplication)," and he raised his hands level with his shoulders; "and this is ibtihal (earnest imploring)," and he raised his hands high, stretched out.
Hadith Referenceالسنن الكبرى للبيهقي / كتاب الصلاة / 2796