Last month, we highlighted the importance mental health plays in our lives. According to Mental Health America, 46% of Americans will have a diagnosable mental health condition in their lifetime. Mental health affects our feelings, thoughts and actions, and influences how we relate to others, handle stress and make choices.
When we relax, the flow of blood increases around our body and gives us more energy. We get a calmer and clearer mind, more positive thinking, better concentration, improved memory and balanced decision-making. Relaxation slows our heart rate, reduces our blood pressure, aids in digestion and relieves tension.
At Publix, we want to help you be your absolute best. So, we asked associates what they do outside work to unwind, relax and alleviate stress. Here’s what some associates shared.
Retail Associate Relations Specialist Joshua Gibson, Jacksonville, Florida
“I unwind by singing my heart out with karaoke! A karaoke machine, 10 minutes and Mariah Carey songs go a long way in reducing my stress.”
Assistant Produce Manager Tomi Kordic, #1821, Lutz, Florida
“I enjoy reading books. I even read my Kindle on my lunch break. I read nearly 20 books last year, and my favorite type of books are autobiographies.”
Store Managers Jen Gibson and Danielle Hernandez, #396, Davie, and #1719, Coral Springs, Florida
“We go to CrossFit and lift weights 4 to 5 days a week to unwind.”
Assistant Customer Service Manager Kenji Sun, #1182, Tampa, Florida
“I like playing pickleball. After work, sometimes I will play for up to 3 hours with friends and others.”
Cashier Darlene Gordon, #1130, Cumming, Georgia
“To unwind, I play classic rock music and dance like nobody’s watching. It always does the trick!”
Customer Service Staff Kelsey Hughes, #536, Atlanta
“I enjoy using my virtual reality headset to unwind. I can watch videos, play games and even do puzzles on it. The best thing is that I can use it both during my lunch break and at home!”
Supervisor of Retail Safety Nick Grounds, Jacksonville, Florida
“There’s nothing better for unwinding after a busy workweek than fishing on the open water. My kids also like to fish. And even if the fish aren’t biting, it’s still a relaxing time with my kids.”
Pharmacy Supervisor John Lee, Atlanta
“I unwind by playing golf on my days off. I also go to the gym and lift weights in the evening. In addition, I have read that playing video games may help with cognitive function later in life, so I try to get some online game time in the evenings.”
Transportation Operations Lead Person Cole Hartley, Sarasota, Florida
“When I’m stressed, I like to paddleboard. Every week, I make it a priority to spend time soaking up the sun and exercising. Whether it’s January or July, you can find me paddling toward the horizon in the Gulf.”
Distribution Technical Writer Kira Rodriguez, Lakeland, Florida
“My favorite way to unwind is by strength training in the gym. Life can be demanding but looking forward to my next training session helps. Exercise clears my head and helps me give my kids the best version of myself.”
Print Producer Brenda Moiso, Lakeland, Florida
“I unwind by running. What started as a way to improve my physical health and lose weight also turned out to be a great boost for my mental health. I went from walking to running half-marathons. I encourage anyone who needs to de-stress and unwind to try walking or running. It may do you a world of good — as it did for me.”
Customer Service Staff Cody Spangler, #690, Newberry, Florida
“When I feel stressed, I go to the gym. I try to exercise at least 5 times a week. Not only do I exercise to relieve stress, but I also set goals for myself, so I have another reason to go to the gym.”
