The world is undergoing massive transformation, which is only adding to the high stress levels among young people.

Excessive pressure in school due to high expectations placed on a student by himself or society, fear of failure, and focusing more on grades than learning holistically is damaging.

Even at a tender age, inner engineering to engender internal peace, joy and overall well-being can help. Cultivating healthy habits helps to rewire the brain towards more positive thoughts and emotions.

By introducing a short, daily virtual-guided meditation session at the start of classes for all students, young people will be given the chance to practise mindfulness by listening to their own thoughts.

This may lead to a more compassionate outlook, feelings of contentment and tranquillity, and better stress management. Meditation can also help to improve one's focus.

It is crucial that one does not crumble under pressure. Meditation can help to develop a resilient generation of individuals who take stressors in their stride as opportunities for learning, growth and self-renewal.

Rhea Sharma, 13

Secondary 1 student

CALLING YOUNG READERS: If you are a student or aged 21 years or below, and want to air your opinion on any report or letter in The Straits Times, e-mail your letter to stforum@sph.com.sg, with the subject header "Voices of Youth". Do include your age, school level and contact details, and the headline of the report/letter you refer to. Please keep to a length of 250 words.