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Right Hand Orientation on the Steel String Acoustic Guitar
The reason to orient your hand on the guitar surface, is to find a reference point, to help navigate the strings. It’s easier to find individual strings, if at least some part of your right hand is in temporary contact with the guitar. This advise is suitable for flat pickers as well.

Bass String Orientation vs. Muting at the Bridge
I believe in bass string orientation. You position and temporarily rest the heel of your hand against the 6^th bass string, just at the sound hole, a couple inches from the bridge. This position offers an exceptional reference point to enhance your accuracy and tone. Once you start playing, you lift your right hand off the strings. Floating your hand above the strings allows the strings to vibrate. As you alternate with your thumb, let the heel of your hand briefly touch the 5^th and 6^th bass strings immediately after each strike. This will dampen the bass notes. Those times when you end up playing melody notes on the bass strings with your fingers instead of your thumb, your hand will have to float back away from the strings. You may end up hovering behind the 6^th bass string and perhaps, even touching the soundboard, ever so slightly. As the melody progresses towards the first string, let the heel of your hand move down until you orient it against the 6^th bass string, once again... end of lesson by Harley.