In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, the risk of burnout is no longer limited to corporate executives or overworked parents. Increasingly, changemakers—those dedicating their time and energy to social good—find themselves running on empty. Francesca Blechner, a holistic health coach and author, knows this story all too well.
“I loved what I did, but I wasn’t giving myself the same level of replenishment I was giving to others,” she recalls in our interview. Her own experience of exhaustion while working in London’s high-energy fitness industry led her on a two-decade journey of healing—one that transformed not just her career but her entire outlook on health.
Rethinking Health Beyond the Physical
While mainstream health culture has long emphasized physical fitness and nutrition, Blechner insists that’s only part of the picture. Her approach focuses on six interconnected pillars: thoughts, breathing, diet, rest, movement, and happiness.
“Healthy, what is our definition of health?” she asks. “I was fit, I was in shape, but I didn’t understand restoration and cultivating energy.”
Science increasingly backs this up. Studies have shown that chronic stress disrupts the nervous system, leading to inflammation, suppressed immunity, and long-term illness (American Psychological Association). Breathwork, which Francesca emphasizes in her practice, is also gaining recognition as a tool to regulate the nervous system and support both mental and physical wellbeing (Harvard Health).
Spiritual Wellbeing as a Missing Link
Perhaps most striking about Blechner’s philosophy is her integration of spirituality into health—a component often left out of coaching programs. For her, spirituality is less about religion and more about reconnecting with self and a higher sense of meaning.
“Primarily that spirituality is first connection to yourself and then to something greater than yourself—whatever that is for you,” she explains. This shift, she believes, helps changemakers sustain their energy and sense of purpose in the face of ongoing global challenges.
Self-Care for a Demanding World
Bleckner’s book, Self-Care for Life in the City, distills her wisdom into practical tools for thriving in environments that are anything but restful. Structured around nourishing the mind, body, and soul, the book offers accessible “health bank deposits”—small, actionable steps to build resilience without adding more stress.
This philosophy feels particularly relevant for those working in social change, where self-sacrifice can become the default. As Bleckner notes, it’s common to see signs of burnout overlooked until it’s too late. Fatigue, low resilience to stress, and irritability are just some of the early warnings.
Lessons for Changemakers and Entrepreneurs
Beyond her health practice, Blechner has been running her own business since 2005. She admits that entrepreneurship was never her original plan, but the lessons she’s learned are invaluable for anyone stepping into a purpose-driven career.
“Lead with passion and love,” she advises. “Then the rest will come.” But she also underscores the importance of boundaries and pricing your work sustainably—reminders many changemakers need to hear.
The Bigger Picture
The World Health Organization has recognized burnout as an occupational phenomenon, particularly in high-demand fields (WHO). For activists, advocates, and social entrepreneurs, investing in wellbeing is not just a luxury—it’s a prerequisite for long-term impact.
As Blechner’s story illustrates, health is not about doing more, but about simplifying and realigning. By building strong foundations across mind, body, and spirit, changemakers can avoid the crisis of depletion and instead show up with the power and presence their work demands.
