Naomi Osaka discusses life after giving birth and her new mental health podcast

Two years before her daughter Shai was born, Naomi Osaka withdrew from the 2021 French Open to take care of “long bouts of depression” she had been fighting. “It has become clear to me that literally everyone either suffers from mental health issues or knows someone who does,” she wrote in her article for Time magazine. From maternal health to mental and emotional health, Black Wellness can’t be underestimated (like: healthcare employees have been known to do that). That’s why a number of weeks ago, Emmy-nominated Osaka media company Hana Kuma and mental health platform Modern health launched a new podcast series .

“Since sharing my mental health journey, I have found strength in accepting my weaknesses,” Osaka says. “The outpouring of love and support from my inner circle, my fans and partners like Modern Health is truly heartwarming.” Featuring two rotating hosts – a New York Times bestselling creator Love, Ajayi Jones and famous YouTube influencer Franny Arrieta– the series is the brainchild of Modern Health and Hana Kuma for multicultural storytelling. “It’s about the excitement of having conversations with such diverse voices and connecting with that inner voice,” she says.

Every Thursday, all taboo topics are discussed on the table. From deep conversations with the inaugural guest Bozoma Saint John for a special episode hosted by Osaka with the United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, the podcast is a carrier of essentially the most intimate stories and groundbreaking stories of extraordinary guests. “I think it’s really interesting how having an internal dialogue with yourself can actually lead to a better understanding of the world around you,” he says. “I want to make sure other people going through something in their lives can feel the same support.”

In addition to watching every Thursday in Block the Kuma channel on YouTube, you’ll want to read below as Osaka discusses the new podcast, what it’s wish to be a new mom, Black mother health, self-care, and more.

ESSENCE: What inspired you to create this podcast?

Naomi Osaka: Since sharing my mental health journey, I actually have found strength in accepting my weaknesses. The outpouring of affection and support from my inner circle, my fans and partners like Modern Health is really heartwarming. I need to ensure that that other people going through something of their lives can feel the identical support, and I hope that this video podcast series will encourage them to have open discussions about mental health and self-esteem. I also hope that this podcast will help remove the stigma around it so that everybody can feel less alone of their struggles.

How did you give you the name?

“Can’t Wait to Hear from You” is in regards to the excitement of getting conversations with such diverse voices and connecting with that inner voice. I find it really interesting how having an internal dialogue with yourself can actually lead you to a clearer understanding of the world around you and also allow yourself to be vulnerable. We are sometimes our own harshest critics. The way you confer with yourself matters – it’s some of the vital relationships you create. If you’ll be able to’t be kind to yourself, how are you going to expect others to do the identical.

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, what are your thoughts in your pregnancy experience? What helped you get through this era of self-care?

During my pregnancy, I suffered from morning sickness, which made me feel for the primary time that my body was not entirely mine. This was strange for me because as an athlete I actually have at all times felt good about my body. Talking to Alyson Felix during my pregnancy helped alleviate a few of my fears; she was very nice and shared her own experiences with me.

How have I treated you since I became a mother?

No matter how my day went, seeing her smile once I come home at all times puts a smile on my face. She modified me for the higher in every way. Being a mother gives me a lot joy that I would not give it up for anything.

What is your most vital piece of recommendation for expectant and young moms?

I might say to young moms and pregnant women: trust yourself. There is plenty of recommendation on the market, but remember, every mother and child is different. There isn’t any one “right” strategy to do that.

What is your attitude towards beauty and self-care now that you just are a young mother? Why are these practices vital to you now greater than ever?

When it involves beauty and self-care, I keep things pretty easy. Tennis season is in full swing and I spend loads of time within the sun, so sunscreen is crucial. That’s why there’s not a day that goes by without using KINLÒ Golden Rays sunscreen.

What’s next for you, what are you enthusiastic about?
I’m really looking forward to this summer. Shai shall be joining me in Europe for the Clay and Grass season. It shall be incredibly special to have her by my side, discovering new places and experiences together.