In today’s fast-paced world, the health of employees is more crucial than ever. Many organizations are now recognizing the immense benefits of fostering a healthy workplace, and our initiative, “Wellness in the Workplace,” is at the forefront of this movement. At its core, this initiative aims to transform the office environment into a space that promotes well-being and productivity.
The Global Shift Away from Smoking
There’s a global trend that sees individuals rejecting the smoking habit, and for a good reason. The dangers of smoking—from heart disease and lung cancer to chronic respiratory diseases—are well-documented. As the world becomes more health-conscious, more people are choosing to quit smoking, paving the way for a healthier lifestyle that extends beyond personal benefits to positive workplace outcomes.
Our Initiative: Short Breaks for Office Exercises
As part of our commitment to employee health, Mediplus introduced “Wellness in the Workplace,” a program designed to encourage physical activity among our staff. Recognizing the difficulty of finding time for exercise in a busy work schedule, we promote taking two 10-minute breaks during the workday to engage in simple office exercises. These short activity bursts not only help in quitting smoking by keeping hands and minds busy but also enhance focus, reduce stress, and increase overall energy levels.
Here are a few exercises you can easily incorporate into your 10-minute breaks:
• Desk push-ups: Great for upper body strength. Use your desk or a wall and perform push-ups.
• Chair squats: Stand up and sit down on your chair without using your hands, which is excellent for leg muscles.
• Stretching: Focus on neck, arms, and leg stretches to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
The Impact of Smoking in Mozambique
In Mozambique, as in many countries, the effects of smoking are a significant concern for public health. With high rates of tobacco use, the country faces challenges related to smoking-related illnesses, including an increased burden on the healthcare system. Efforts to curb smoking have been imperative in promoting public health and reducing preventable diseases.
Why Quitting Matters
Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term benefits. Within minutes of smoking the last cigarette, the body begins to recover:
• 20 minutes after quitting: Heart rate and blood pressure drop.
• 12 hours after quitting: Carbon monoxide level in blood drops to normal.
• 2 weeks to 3 months after quitting: Circulation improves and lung function increases.
A Call to Action
We encourage everyone to take a proactive approach to health. Quitting smoking and participating in regular physical activity are excellent ways to start. Through our “Wellness in the Workplace” initiative, we hope to inspire and support our employees in taking these vital steps toward a healthier lifestyle.