The Upanishads, also known as the Yoga Sutras, are ancient Hindu texts written in Sanskrit. The Upanishads do not predate the period of Rig Veda. They were composed much later. However, they are much more influential than the other older Hindu classics, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The Upanishads form the basis of Hindu belief, because they are said to be a divine oral tradition dictated by the "Gods" in the heavens. The Upanishads declare that the primary purpose of creation was to provide instruction to mankind. The Upanishads also say that this basic aim of yoga is to help humans live happy lives. Therefore, all the teachings in the Upanishads are intended for the benefit of humanity. The Upanishads also provide yoga postures for different physical positions. These yoga postures can be practiced with or without any guru. The Upanishads recommend practicing yoga under the tutelage of a guru. In fact, many proponents of yoga believe that a guru is a better teacher than anyone else. Different religions have different ideas about the teacher. However, the Upanishads repeatedly tell us that a guru is the right person to learn and teach yoga. Therefore, it is necessary to follow all the guidelines and instructions given in the Upanishads. According to the Upanishads, a student should seek advice from a guru only after he has properly studied the Upanishads and found out which yoga postures are suitable for his body and spirit. There are two types of yoga postures in the Upanishads. The first type of yoga postures is referred to as the pranayama. These practices make sure that the student's lungs and heart are cleansed. These yoga postures also regulate blood pressure and the energy levels in the body. The second type of yoga postures are called asana. These yoga postures help the body to stretch and strengthen the muscles. The Upanishads contain a lot of wisdom about food, and wine. According to the Upanishads, people who eat too much food and drink too much wine will lead to illness, diseases, and old age. On the other hand, people who eat the right kind of food and drink only the right kind of quantity will remain fit, healthy, and youthful. In addition, according to the Upanishads, meat must not be consumed because it is negative energy generator. Another important part of the Upanishads is the Bhakti. The Upanishads advise people to practice the art of Bhakti on a regular basis daily and on the auspicious occasions of the day that they worship more intensely. On these occasions, the devotees’ burn candle of candle sticks made from oil and ghee and offer milk, dry fruits, coconut pieces, ghee, and clarified butter to the respective deities. The Upanishads prescribe yoga postures for the purpose of meditation and self-realization. Therefore, it is essential to follow all the rules of yoga seriously. This includes observing the five precepts of yoga, wearing the right kinds of clothes, and eating right. If one follows these rules, then he/she will surely lead a peaceful and happy life. When reading the Upanishads, one will understand the connection between mand and the devine through the processors called of yoga. The Upanishads declare that Shiva, the god of yoga, is the founder of yoga. Therefore, one can conclude that those who aspire to lead a peaceful and happy life should follow the rules of yoga. One must also read other books written by the various other authors like Patanjali. By doing these practices and studies is, one will be able to learn more about the true meaning of the Upanishads and how it can benefit one's spiritual life. Thus, after reading these essential Upanishads readings, one can lead a peaceful and happy life.
