Active breaks as a tool for well-being and productivity

The text presented Dorothea Orem's Self-Care Theory as a basis for understanding the importance of maintaining health at work. It pointed out that self-care was a learned and guided activity, while self-care deficits required nursing support systems. This perspective was linked to the workplace, where workers identified capabilities, limitations, and internal and external factors that influenced their well-being. Active breaks were highlighted as a concrete practice of self-care, preserving health and preventing illnesses that affected productivity and performance.DEVELOPMENTThe history of “break gymnastics” was described from its origins in Europe to its institutionalization in Japan and its worldwide expansion. Active breaks were defined as short exercises involving breathing, stretching, joint mobility, coordination, and flexibility, performed during the workday to recover energy and reduce fatigue. Physiological, psychological, social, and economic benefits were highlighted, including a decrease in accidents, increased productivity, and reduced healthcare costs. It was recommended that they be practiced twice a day for five to ten minutes. Barriers such as lack of time, space, or management support were also noted, as were facilitators such as a culture of self-care and adequate organization. In addition, they were related to ergonomics, the prevention of sedentary lifestyles, and performance evaluation, factors that conditioned their effectiveness.CONCLUSIONThe analysis concluded that integrating Orem's theory with active breaks strengthened health and work performance. The sustainability of these programs depended on institutional commitment, ergonomic design, and fair evaluations. Consolidating a culture of self-care represented a low-cost, high-impact strategy for achieving healthy and humanized work environments.