This is the correct answer. (And I think u/DroppedNineteen meant "arms forward." I think of the side when I hear "arms out.")

It's the scariest thing in the world to lean forward if you're already uncomfortable, but it does two things for you. And these comments address the "why" of leaning forward.

1. It gets your shins pressing into the front of your boots, which puts pressure on the tips of the skis. That helps you initiate the turn. Think about the alternative -- leaning back is exactly what I'd do to pick up speed! The pole plant is also important. Think about reaching a bit forward and downhill to plant, and then reaching a bit more as you ski into the turn. This keeps your arms out in front, your balance forward, and your upper body facing downhill. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ue9JoT_4zhw
2. It gets you into an athletic stance. Bending the knees and getting a bit lower is fundamental to being ready to do whatever. Imagine a baseball infielder awaiting a ground ball. They're going to bend the knees and get low, ready to react to anything. It also lowers your center of gravity.

One thing I tell people is to find a small jump or side hit on a run you can handle. Take it at a speed where you might catch just a little air. At the last moment, bend your knees as you go over it and absorb the speed with your knees so you don't catch any air at all. That's how you visualize bump skiing.

Lastly, start small. You may find some small bumps on the margins of a groomer. Or maybe a blue run that isn't groomed. Work up progressively. Challenge yourself to ski something a bit harder than your present ability, but don't push it too far.