Neurologists who compared the brain scans of Tibetan monks with other people found that the monks were able to stay more relaxed in anxiety-provoked situations.
How do the monks do it? Can we learn from them? Here are a few suggestions to help you get through the stress-filled holidays.

• Listen to the bells.
  Tibetan monks use bells in their ceremonies believing that the vibration made when the bells chime clears the mind.
  In fact, research shows that hearing the vibration of bells helps synchronize the left and right parts of the brain--producing a state of relaxation.
  The National Institutes of Health conducted a study which revealed that sound vibrations can slash anxiety and pain by 60%! So, be sure and listen to Christmas carols with bells in them.
  
• Try to focus on a single object.
  Tibetan monks practice a form of meditation whereby they simply observe something around them.
  This helps to induce relaxation, improve focus, as well as lower depression.
  Apparently when you are focused on just one thing, it's impossible to worry about anything else.
  So, if you're out in the mall and feeling a little stressed, sit down and try to focus on one particular object for a few minutes and see if that won't reduce your stress.
  
• Think about what you need, not what you want.
  Monks make do with only what is absolutely necessary, i.
  e.
  basic clothing, tools and simple foods.
  There are some studies that show that having few material possessions leaves you much happier and fulfilled than having all the possessions you could possibly ask for.
  
• Do only one thing at a time.
  Tibetan monks focus completely on what they are doing in the moment.
  This habit switches off the body's stress response.
  So, try not to multitask as much and you might find that your stress level has been reduced.
  
• Laugh out loud.
  For over 5,000 years, Tibetan monks have made it a practice to laugh out loud immediately after waking up.
  They believe that the act of laughing helps them to focus during the day.
  

So, in this stress-filled holiday season, try to take a few lessons from the Tibetan monks and learn how to not take yourself too seriously, spend some quality time with your family and enjoy the holidays!