Cheryl Burke is shutting down the noise. The “Dancing with the Stars” alum took to Instagram to address critics commenting on her changed appearance following a 35-pound weight loss.

In a powerful post, Burke reminded fans that evolution is a natural and necessary part of being human.

Hence, she prioritizes peace, not perfection, and encourages others to do the same.

In a candid Instagram post, Cheryl Burke responded to social media users who criticized her appearance after her weight loss.

The 41-year-old star, who has lost around 35 pounds, revealed that she has stopped chasing outside validation.

Burke shared several pictures of herself with accompanying messages. One photo showed her in a burnt orange sleeveless two-piece outfit with the caption, “The noise that was never yours to carry…”

She also posted a message from The Self Recode that read, “In a world of noise, choose to focus on what you can create.”

Burke shared another selfie with the message, “Societal Expectations: ‘You should’ve been married by now…'” She continued, “Truth: Your timeline isn’t broken. It’s just not theirs…”

The pro dancer also posted a message about not being late in life and a selfie where she wrote, “Online Criticism: ‘You look so different. Did she get work done? You were better before…’ Truth: People project. Let them. You’re allowed to evolve.'”

Burke shared more selfies between messages, where she had responses to different things people have said about her.

One selfie post read, “Unsolicited Advice: ‘If I were you…’ Truth: You didn’t ask. And that’s enough reason to tune it out…'”

A message attached to a picture of Burke holding a bottle and glass of alcohol read, “Old Versions of You: ‘You used to be so fun. You’ve change…’ Truth: You’re supposed to. Growth isn’t a betrayal—it’s the point…”

Another picture of her doing makeup had the message, “The voice in your head that isn’t even yours: ‘I’m not enough. I’ll fail…” Truth: That voice is a recording. You get to re-record it…”

In the last selfie, Burke wrote, “Your peace is louder than their opinions. You don’t need to shrink so others feel more comfortable. You don’t need to carry noise that was never yours.”

She concluded, “You are allowed to turn down the volume of the world and trust the whisper of your own voice. That’s not selfish. That’s self-respect.”

In her post’s caption, Burke advised her fans to live their lives on their own terms.

She wrote, “There comes a moment when you realize the loudest voice in the room doesn’t always speak the truth…”

Burke continued, “The opinions. The projections. The pressure. You don’t have to carry any of it… Choosing your peace isn’t selfish, it’s sacred. You were never meant to live your life on someone else’s volume setting…”

She concluded, “Save this for the days it gets loud. Comment below: What’s one voice you’re muting for your peace.”

Her caption also included the hashtags #boundariesarebeautiful, #boundariesarebeautiful, and #mentalhealthawareness.

Many of Cheryl Burke’s friends and fans reacted to the post by sharing their experiences.

One person wrote, “I’m just beginning this journey, it’s not easy, but I’m working on it. Thank you for sharing. I love this.”

A second person commented, “This is so beautiful and so powerful! Thank you for sharing, and thank you for lending your voice to the important thought.”

Another fan commended Burke’s growth, writing, “I’m so glad you have not let the noise disrupt your transformation. Keep pushing ahead.”

A fourth fan urged Burke, “Keep doing what you’re doing. You don’t need to explain yourself.”

A fifth fan added, “Thank you so much for this, Cheryl, and this post is what touched me today and made me a lot stronger, and you’re a very encouraging person, and I love you for that!!”

This isn’t the first time Cheryl Burke has responded to criticism and speculation about her appearance, particularly accusations of using Ozempic or undergoing cosmetic surgery.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight last month, Burke called out the “gaslighting” she’s endured, emphasizing the emotional toll of constantly defending her body.

“I wish the conversation was geared more toward mental health.” noting the progress she’s made off-camera. While she acknowledged fame invites scrutiny, the relentless focus on her looks has been exhausting.

“If I said it doesn’t affect me, I’d be lying,” she admitted, although she’s learned to handle it better since leaving the spotlight.

Burke also revealed her years-long battle with body dysmorphia, especially during her time on DWTS. Weekly costume fittings intensified her insecurities, leading her to weigh herself obsessively and even travel with a scale.

Now, the dancer credits her transformation to a healthier lifestyle, not shortcuts. She attributed her weight loss to a food program called Zen and improved eating habits.

Burke hopes her transparency helps shift the narrative. “There is more depth to a human being than their physical appearance,” she said.