By Jefferson O. Sese

At NLEX Corporation, the roads never sleep—and neither does the dedication of the people who keep them running. From sunrise to midnight, from toll plazas to back offices, NLEX employees work tirelessly in rotating shifts to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient travel for all.

In a 24/7 operation like this, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about staying strong, mentally refreshed, and personally recharged. That’s where the power of unwinding comes in. Finding time to pause, breathe, and do something that brings you joy isn’t a luxury—it’s fuel for your best self.

Taking time to recharge doesn’t just benefit individuals—it lifts teams, strengthens morale, and powers the whole organization.

Let’s explore three powerful stories from NLEX employees who prove that when we take care of ourselves, we come back stronger—for our work, our teams, and our purpose.

Mark Lorena – Finding Freedom on Two Wheels

When work becomes routine and pressure builds, finding an outlet becomes more than a want—it becomes a need. For many, the road to relaxation is metaphorical. But for some, like Mark Lorena, it’s literal. This is a story of how riding has become his way of recharging, restoring focus, and reconnecting with himself.

“Riding is like hitting the reset switch—just me, my bike, and the open road.”

After a shift on the expressways, Mark, a TPOA, finds his balance on two wheels. As a proud member of PUGA Riders, he turns every trip into a therapeutic escape.

“We roll out early mornings on every trip. Fresh air, sunrise views, no traffic—total freedom,” he shares.

For Mark, it’s more than a hobby. It’s his way of clearing his head, staying focused, and finding joy in the journey.

“When I’m riding, I’m free. I can reflect, reset, and return to work with a better mindset.”

Even more valuable than the ride? The community. His fellow riders fuel his passion and keep him grounded.

“It’s not just the road—it’s the brotherhood. That energy keeps me going.”

Mark reminds us that sometimes, to move forward, you need to pull over, breathe, and just ride.

Lyndy & Mike Berboso – Travel to Recharge

Arnie Grace, Mara, & Rossana – The Gym Squad & Proud TPOAs

Staying active is one of the most powerful ways to shake off stress and stay centered—but for some, it’s even more than that. It’s a lifestyle, a bond, and a mental recharge. For Arnie, Mara, and Rossana, the gym became their safe space, their sanctuary, and their sisterhood.

“We’re not just working out—we’re working on ourselves.”

TPOAs Arnie Grace Gongon, Mara Mahilum, and Rossana Lyn Grabillo are more than coworkers—they’re gym sisters who lift each other up in and out of the weight room.

“We hype each other up. On hard days, it’s our bond that gets us through,” says Arnie.

Whether it’s weightlifting, cardio, or yoga, they show up for each other—and for themselves.

“It’s more than fitness—it’s our reset. We sweat out the stress and walk out stronger,” shares Rossana.

Their journey isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about gaining confidence, resilience, and empowerment—together.

“We’re more focused at work because we take care of our bodies and minds. And we do it as a team,” Mara adds.

They prove that real strength comes from community, and real energy starts with self-care.

Your Well-Being Is a Workplace Asset

A lot of professionals feel guilty about taking breaks. We think resting means slacking off. But science and experience say otherwise: a rested mind is more creative, more resilient, and more emotionally intelligent. In other words, rest makes you better at your job.

Unwinding is not abandoning your responsibilities—it’s respecting your limits. Recharging is not selfish—it’s strategic.

People learn that when you’re kind to yourself, you show up more powerfully for others. You become a better teammate, a better communicator, a better problem-solver. And most importantly, you stay connected to why you do what you do.

You Deserve to Feel Alive—Not Just Employed

At the end of the day, your job is only one part of your life. You’re a human being, not a machine. You’re allowed to laugh, to rest, to breathe. You’re allowed to say, “I need a break.” And you’re allowed to enjoy your work and your life.

The stories of Mark, Lyndy, Mike, Arnie, Mara, and Rossana remind us that finding time to unwind doesn’t take away from our success—it adds to it. Their journeys were not about slowing down forever, but about creating rhythm. Like music, the beauty comes from the pauses, too.

So if you’re reading this with tired eyes and a heavy head, consider this your sign: you’re allowed to stop and refill your soul. Because you don’t need to burn out to be your best. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do—is to simply take a deep breath and begin again.

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