The image of Damar Hamlin collapsing on the field during a Monday Night Football game in January 2023 remains a stark memory for many. Now, three years after suffering a near-fatal cardiac arrest, the Buffalo Bills safety is revealing the stress-relieving techniques he’s adopted to navigate life after his harrowing experience and prioritize his well-being.
Hamlin’s on-field collapse at Paycor Stadium sent shockwaves through the NFL and beyond, requiring immediate CPR and defibrillation to restore his heartbeat. His miraculous recovery and return to the game have been widely celebrated, but the incident prompted a profound shift in his approach to self-care. Hamlin, now 28, is focusing on proactive mental and physical health strategies as he continues his NFL career and expands his philanthropic function.
“I told myself, in 2026, I’m giving myself the love that I give the world first,” Hamlin recently told The Post. “You can’t fill others’ cups until you fill yours — you know, have people that you can talk to, that you can empty your cup into.”
A Life-Altering Moment
The cardiac arrest was later diagnosed as commotio cordis, a rare condition triggered by a direct blow to the chest that disrupts the heart’s rhythm. Hamlin spent two days in a medically induced coma and several more days recovering in the hospital. The experience, he says, was a turning point.
Following his recovery, Hamlin refocused his Chasing M’s Foundation, initially established to support youth sports, to prioritize education and training in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). He recognized the critical role these skills play in improving cardiac arrest survival rates. His work has extended internationally, with heart-related initiatives in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Tokyo, and India.
Prioritizing Nervous System Reset
Hamlin’s commitment to well-being now extends to incorporating nervous system training into his routine. He explained that this involves techniques designed to calm an overactive fight-or-flight response, including deep breathing exercises, cold exposure, somatic exercises, and spending time in nature. Nervous system training is gaining recognition as a valuable tool for managing stress and improving overall health.
He also shared a simple, physical technique he uses to release tension: bouncing his shoulders for a minute or two. “We carry so much with us throughout the day,” Hamlin noted.
Beyond his personal practices, Hamlin is partnering with the dietary supplement brand Qunol through his foundation to recognize and support community heroes with personal video calls as part of their “Champions at Heart” initiative. “Qunol is redefining what it means to be a champion at heart, and not just elite athletes, but anyone whose passion, resilience and heart retain them moving forward,” Hamlin said.
Looking Ahead
Hamlin acknowledges the profound impact his experience has had on his life, noting he receives a level of recognition and openness from people he encounters that he hadn’t anticipated. “People experience compelled to come speak to me and tell me their story, tell me things that they overcame,” he said. “I always try to stay grounded, stay humble, give people that moment, because I know that moment can … mean a lifetime to people.”
Hamlin’s journey extends beyond football. He appeared in two Hallmark Channel movies last year – “Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story” and “The More the Merrier” – as part of his role as an Abbott HeartMates ambassador. He remains open to a wide range of future possibilities, even joking about aspirations to become an astronaut. For now, Hamlin is focused on prioritizing his well-being and continuing to inspire others through his foundation and advocacy work.
As Hamlin prepares for the upcoming NFL season, his emphasis on mental and physical health serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care, particularly for athletes facing intense pressure and physical demands. His story continues to evolve, and his commitment to giving back and pursuing his passions promises further chapters of resilience and inspiration.
What are your thoughts on Damar Hamlin’s journey? Share your comments below and let us know how his story has impacted you.
