about the editor:Hello. I'm Zaniya Belarmino. I am from Sacramento, California . I moved to Utah in 2020 which was when Covid started. My favorite color is blue and my favorite movie is Coraline. One of the best foods I personally think is amazing is Birra Tacos. I love going hiking and taking amazing pictures. One important thing that means a lot to me is reminding people that it's okay to be different and to be yourself.
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How To: Use music for stress relief
By : Zaniya Belarmino
Posted January 9 2026
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Illustrated by HSInsider
Music plays a powerful role in helping people cope with stress, especially in today’s fast-paced society. Teenagers often experience stress from schoolwork, exams, social expectations, and personal responsibilities. When these pressures build up, music can serve as a healthy and effective way to manage emotions and restore balance. Whether someone is listening to calming melodies or energetic songs, music has the ability to influence mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. One way music helps with stress is by calming the mind. Slow or peaceful music can lower heart rate and help the body relax after a long day. Many students listen to music before bed or during moments of stress because it creates a sense of comfort and safety. Music can also act as a distraction, allowing people to focus less on their worries and more on the rhythm and lyrics. This mental break can make stressful situations feel more manageable. Music also allows people to express emotions that may be difficult to put into words. When someone feels overwhelmed, certain songs can reflect their thoughts and feelings, making them feel understood. Lyrics often remind listeners that they are not alone in their struggles. This emotional connection can be especially helpful for teenagers who may find it hard to talk about stress openly. Music gives them a private and judgment-free way to release emotions. In addition, music can improve focus and motivation. Many students listen to music while studying, doing homework, or exercising because it helps them stay engaged and productive. Instrumental or familiar music can make tasks feel less stressful and more enjoyable. By creating a positive atmosphere, music helps reduce pressure and encourages a calmer mindset. Overall, music is a valuable tool for managing stress. It helps calm the body, express emotions, and improve focus during difficult moments. In a world filled with constant demands, music offers a simple and accessible way for people to relax and take care of their mental well-being. |
Illustrated by hbr.org
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HOw To: HAve A PEACEFUL MINDSET
By Zaniya Belarmino
Posted December 12
Illustrated by Meduim
Having a peaceful mindset in high school can feel almost impossible because there is always something going on. There are tests, homework, sports, family problems, friendships changing, and teachers expecting you to keep up with everything at once. On top of that, you are supposed to stay calm and act like you have your life together. Even though it feels overwhelming, having a peaceful mindset is actually something you can build slowly if you pay attention to what helps you feel calm and balanced.
The first thing that makes a peaceful mindset easier is learning how to slow down. Most of us rush through our days without even thinking. We wake up, grab our things, run out the door and keep going until it is time to sleep. When your mind is constantly speeding up, it is harder to stay calm. Taking a moment to breathe deeply or pause before reacting can make a huge difference. It gives your mind a chance to reset so everything does not feel so chaotic.
Another part of having a peaceful mindset is letting go of things you cannot control. This is something almost every high schooler struggles with because there is so much pressure around us. You cannot control how other people behave or what they think about you. You cannot control every situation at school. But you can control how you respond and how much energy you give to things that do not deserve it. When you stop trying to fix everything around you, you protect your peace and feel more grounded.
Your environment plays a huge role in your mindset too. When your room, backpack or desk is messy, it makes your mind feel cluttered. Cleaning up even a small area helps your brain feel clearer and reduces stress. It creates a space where you can think and breathe instead of feeling overwhelmed.
It also helps to talk to someone you trust. You do not need someone who fixes your problems. You just need someone who listens so you do not keep everything inside. When you say how you feel out loud, it makes your thoughts lighter and your stress easier to manage.
Most importantly, you have to be patient with yourself. You will not feel peaceful every day, and that is completely normal. A peaceful mindset is something you build little by little. Over time, these small habits can help you feel calmer, stronger and more in control of your life.
Having a peaceful mindset in high school can feel almost impossible because there is always something going on. There are tests, homework, sports, family problems, friendships changing, and teachers expecting you to keep up with everything at once. On top of that, you are supposed to stay calm and act like you have your life together. Even though it feels overwhelming, having a peaceful mindset is actually something you can build slowly if you pay attention to what helps you feel calm and balanced.
The first thing that makes a peaceful mindset easier is learning how to slow down. Most of us rush through our days without even thinking. We wake up, grab our things, run out the door and keep going until it is time to sleep. When your mind is constantly speeding up, it is harder to stay calm. Taking a moment to breathe deeply or pause before reacting can make a huge difference. It gives your mind a chance to reset so everything does not feel so chaotic.
Another part of having a peaceful mindset is letting go of things you cannot control. This is something almost every high schooler struggles with because there is so much pressure around us. You cannot control how other people behave or what they think about you. You cannot control every situation at school. But you can control how you respond and how much energy you give to things that do not deserve it. When you stop trying to fix everything around you, you protect your peace and feel more grounded.
Your environment plays a huge role in your mindset too. When your room, backpack or desk is messy, it makes your mind feel cluttered. Cleaning up even a small area helps your brain feel clearer and reduces stress. It creates a space where you can think and breathe instead of feeling overwhelmed.
It also helps to talk to someone you trust. You do not need someone who fixes your problems. You just need someone who listens so you do not keep everything inside. When you say how you feel out loud, it makes your thoughts lighter and your stress easier to manage.
Most importantly, you have to be patient with yourself. You will not feel peaceful every day, and that is completely normal. A peaceful mindset is something you build little by little. Over time, these small habits can help you feel calmer, stronger and more in control of your life.
How To: Decorate for CHRISTMAS
by Zaniya Belarmino
Posted November 21
Christmas decorating is honestly one of the best parts of December. It just makes everything feel cozy and exciting, even if you’re still stressing over finals or trying to figure out what to get people who say “I don’t need anything.” Decorating doesn’t have to be super fancy or expensive, so here’s how to make your space look festive without going overboard.
First, pick a vibe. Seriously, this helps a lot. Do you want cute and cozy? Bright and colorful? Aesthetically pleasing Pinterest vibes? Or full-on “Santa exploded in my house”? Once you pick the theme, everything else gets easier because you’ll know what to look for. For example, if you like the colorful look, grab multicolored lights and fun ornaments. If you want something calmer, stick to warm white lights and simple decorations. Illustrated by iStock Next, you have to do the lights. Lights literally make everything look better. Put them around your tree, your windows, your TV stand—whatever you want. If you don’t have a tree or don’t want to set one up, you can put lights in your room and it still feels like Christmas. Some people even hang them on the ceiling or around their bed, which looks really good at night. After that, add the little things. These are what make everything feel complete. This can be stockings, candles that smell like peppermint or pine, fake snow, mini trees, or cute signs that say stuff like “Merry & Bright.” If you want it to look extra put-together, try repeating the same colors in different spots. For example, if you have red on your tree, add red pillows or a red blanket. Don’t forget the outside! Even just a wreath on your door or some lights around your porch can make a huge difference. People don’t expect you to do a whole light show (unless that’s your thing), but a few decorations make your house feel more welcoming. Finally, add your personal touch. Maybe you hang ornaments you’ve had forever, or you make paper snowflakes, or you decorate with stuff you DIY. Christmas decorating is supposed to be fun, not stressful. Just do what makes you happy and makes your space feel warm and festive |
Illustrated by Christmas Designers
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