Our next question: What is the most “useless” talent you have that you are secretly proud of? To take part, drop us a line via this form by 12pm on Wednesday, January 21.
Chu Ho-ang, 16, The Chinese Foundation Secondary School: It is unarguably a good hour playing the piano and listening to classical tunes. What is so dazzling about classical music is that it does not create a space to “escape” day-to-day routines or pressure; instead, it gives me time to fully indulge in the melodies and harmonies and think about all the problems I had in the past and present.
From the soothing scales in Bach’s Cello Suite No 1 in G Major to the masterful compositions of Beethoven’s Waldstein Sonata in C (No 21), there is certainly a piece suitable for everyone to find solace in introspection and reflection.
Playing the piano offers a more intimate way to enjoy these pieces, as you are the one shaping the music’s dynamics to express what you truly feel.
Cherish Chiu Cheuk-wing, 15, Leung Shek Chee College: A long, silent walk to reset. Then, cooking one perfect meal to be enjoyed with a film. It’s my ritual to shift from doing to being, finding solace in simple, sensory pleasures and my own quiet company.
Jay Ho-Ji, 17, Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary School: After a tough week, I treat myself by riding my bicycle. I firmly believe that sports are the best way to relieve stress and improve mental health by releasing chemicals that can make us feel happy, like dopamine. Cycling by the breathtaking scenery helps me get motivated to face the new week.
Cheng Tsz-wai, 13, St Francis of Assisi’s College: I turn my phone to “do not disturb” mode. My brother and I will go to the park, play football and then buy doughnuts. We eat them slowly on a bench, watching the other kids play. We savour the taste, the sounds and the joy. It’s a small, perfect rebellion against the endless grind.
Rebecca Jane Seto, 10, Kowloon Rhenish School: My favourite way to treat myself after a stressful, tiring week is to drink a cup of cold soda or juice. Sometimes, even just looking at things I really like, for example, my K-pop cards and cute plushies, can make me a little happier too.
Ng Tsz-miu, 11, Evangel College: For a fun escape, my perfect recipe is simple: a giant mango bubble tea, one purring cat named Mochi, and my favourite anime. This combo melts the week’s stress away and sparks the energy needed to jump back into class refreshed and ready to go!
Mirko Wong Tsz-ho, 16, GCC & ITKD Lau Pak Lok Secondary School: After a tough week, my go-to treat is a low-key but fun self-indulgent day. I hit snooze on my alarm until noon. Then I scroll through funny short videos and chat nonstop with my friends about trivial stuff. No studying, just doing whatever random thing makes me happy in the moment.
Jenna Huang Jing-lan, 16, GCC & ITKD Lau Pak Lok Secondary School: After a tough week, I like to treat myself by reading a novel. Being immersed in a book helps me focus on myself and relax. Getting involved in the story and learning about the characters makes me forget the tiredness and troubles of a tough week.
Li Wa-San, 17, Po Leung Kuk Mrs Ma Kam Ming Cheung Fook Sien College: I like to treat myself by going to a buffet with my friends. The delicious food can make me happy and satisfied. Also, a delightful dessert can help relieve pressure. I can also chat with my friends and share my emotions. Therefore, going to a buffet with friends is the best way to treat myself after a tough week.
Coco Chan Yik-ka, 13, St Mary’s Canossian College: Last week was exam week, and I was so tense that my nerves felt like a tightened bowstring. At the end of this stressful week, I decided to treat myself by relaxing in my comfortable bed and enjoying a new book that I bought earlier.
