Stress from school, sports and work takes a toll on many students, but with the help of “meditation” they’ve learned to cope.

“While meditating, you focus more on breathing, almost picturing it going through your body instead of actual thoughts,” World History teacher Amy Braun said.

She meditates to feel a sense of calmness and serenity.

Greenway students meditate too, but not exactly by Buddhist definition. They calm their minds by doing activities they love and by relaxing. Sophomore Nick White said he uses drums as meditation to clear his head after rough day.

“Music is my way of life,” he said. “I just go and play my drums and everything’s alright.”

He said playing music helps him solve all of his problems, like managing his time. Much like White, Senior Brenda Cruz uses music to calm herself down too, especially before a hard calculus test.

“I turn my music up really loud and try not to psych myself out,” she said. “I know I’ll do well if I focus on the positive.”

She said not worrying about things ultimately helps her do better in the long run. Some students prefer a passive approach to calming down instead of turning to an activity when they want to find their Zen, they just clear their minds on their own.

“I just lie down and relax,” Freshman Alex Gutscher said, “and my mind gets cleared.”

He said it’s easy for him because he daydreams a lot.

Other students have a hard time clearing their heads, especially when they’re in a crowded room with many people. Freshman Kylie Wynn said when she’s with all of her friends they always act crazy.

“When we’re together it’s impossible to be mellow,” she said. “I don’t think we ever are.”

It’s the same for Sophomore Leanne Carpenter. “I can’t concentrate when everyone’s around and talking,” she said. “It’s impossible to think.”

Carpenter has advice for anyone who takes longer to become mellow though.

“I always feel better when I go sit in my room by myself,” she said. “I find it helps me calm down even on the most stressful days.”