Dearica Hamby: WNBA Star Redefining Self-Care for Moms & Athletes
From “Go Go Go” too Prioritizing Wellness: How WNBA Star Kayla Hamby Redefined Success
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Kayla Hamby, a veteran of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), reflects on a shift in her approach to life and career. initially driven by a relentless “go go go” mentality, she now prioritizes rest and self-care, a transformation spurred by motherhood and a growing understanding of her body’s needs.
The Hustle of a WNBA Player
Hamby’s early career was characterized by a desire to maximize every prospect.This resonates with the reality for manny WNBA players, where financial security requires consistent hustle. The average WNBA salary is approximately $102,000, a figure that, while respectable, doesn’t guarantee generational wealth or a pleasant retirement after years of physical exertion. Consequently, players supplement their income by playing overseas during the off-season, pursuing endorsement deals, and accepting appearances – often at the expense of rest and recovery.
A New Focus on Wellness
“as having kids and also just maturing in my game I’ve placed a lot of importance on my wellness and taking care of myself,” Hamby explains.She emphasizes the importance of rest, recovery, and disconnecting, recognizing that consistent performance requires a holistic approach. This includes proactively addressing nutritional needs,especially while traveling. “It’s crucial to rest and recover and to unplug at times… This also means supporting myself with resources that help keep me consistent if I’m lacking in my diet, since it can sometimes be arduous to eat right while I’m on the road.”
The Complex Reality of Motherhood in the WNBA
Hamby’s journey as a mother has highlighted a significant gap in the WNBA’s support system. While the league celebrates its players as role models, it hasn’t fully addressed the challenges faced by athletes who become mothers. This experience has profoundly shaped her commitment to self-care. “I show up for myself in all sorts of ways.. physically mentally and emotionally… Mentally and emotionally just making sure I’m protecting my peace.. and decompressing when I’m able to.”
Protecting Her Peace and Saying “No”
Protecting her peace now means setting boundaries and saying “no” more often. Hamby acknowledges the pressure to constantly give, but recognizes the necessity of replenishing her own resources. “It means acknowledging that she can’t pour from an empty cup, even though there’s this constant pressure to do exactly that.” She understands that prioritizing her health isn’t selfish, but essential for effectively caring for her children.
supplements as Self-Care
Hamby incorporates supplements into her routine as a practical form of self-care. She uses MegaFood products, including their Whole Body Multi vitamin, Blood Builder Iron Supplement, and relax + Calm Magnesium Chews, to address specific needs. “When I take MegaFood Whole Body Multi,it feels like self-care. Starting my day with Iron supplements feels like a boost in energy and keeps me feeling motivated to start my day.”
She notes the importance of these small steps, especially as she enters her 32nd year, recognizing that her body’s recovery capacity has changed. “For me it’s mostly mental and my ability to believe in myself… I’ve been lucky to be physically sustainable thus far. But I am also getting older now so there is a bigger emphasis on me taking care of my body to help with recovery.”
Investing in Well-being
Hamby has observed tangible benefits from the supplements, noting improved energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced absorption. When considering the cost of wellness products, she maintains a pragmatic perspective: “I can’t take money with me when I leave, so I’m going to make sure I’m keeping my current necessities at the forefront to feel my best night in and night out.”
Advice for Aspiring Women and Mothers
Hamby offers advice to othre ambitious women, particularly mothers, navigating the demands of career and family: “Be confident in whatever decision you make for yourself and your family. There is mom guilt either way and peopel are gonna have something to say nonetheless… so do what you feel is best.” She acknowledges the inevitability of judgment and encourages women to prioritize their own well-being.
A Holistic Approach: On and Off the Court
Hamby strives for consistency between her professional and personal life. ”I think I pour everything I have onto the court.I also pour all I have into my kids… I try to treat the game like I do my home life… and that’s kinda the brand that I’ve built for myself. People no I play hard and I also love hard… I handle my teammates and work with care.. like I do my kids.. it all translates to one another.”
Advocating for Change
Having navigated personal and professional challenges, including a past lawsuit and public scrutiny, Hamby is increasingly focused on advocating for a more supportive habitat for mothers in the WNBA. “Raising kids definitely takes a village but that doesn’t mean that it’s a hindrance and moms shouldn’t be considered less qualified because they want to have kids… I think if the narrative can be changed, the world would be a better place.”
Until systemic changes occur, Hamby remains committed to prioritizing her own well-being – physically, mentally, and emotionally.