Julianne Hough is refusing to allow negative comments get in the way of being her happiest self.
Earlier this week, the Dancing with the Stars alum and co-host shared a video to Instagram of herself having a "Sunday spa day" at her home, giving fans a sneak peek of what goes into her self-care routine.
In the video, Julianne is seen being silly, wearing a bikini while doing various activities including relaxing in a sauna...
...dancing around in a HigherDOSE red light therapy mask...
...taking a cold plunge...
...and taking the work out of workout with a fun trampoline exercise:
Despite the joy Julianne appeared to be having in the video, it was met with some negative comments about her body and mental state. The video itself received nearly 1,500 comments in total since writing this post.
"This is the weirdest thing I’ve seen in a while," wrote one user. While another questioned, "I’m concerned. Are you ok?"
"Ima hold your hand when I say this," said another commenter. "You’re going through a mid life crisis, it’s okay to not post during this season of lyf sis."
But it didn't stop there. Statements ridiculing her weight were also present in the comments like, "She looks very thin and a little not quite right," "Way too thin, lighten up on the Ozempic," and "Something is happening here. So boney. Is anyone talking to her??"
There were even some accusing Julianne of being "desperate for attention."
After noticing an increasing amount of backlash for her post, Julianne decided to address all the criticism being pushed her way. She left a lengthy comment with these eight points, explaining her actions:
"1.This black hat is a protective cap from the heat as to not burn my hair. It is called a banya hat made from wool, felt or sheepskin."
"2. The red light therapy is incredible for you and might as well kill two birds with one stone while you are in the sauna."
"3. The trampoline was a new try for me today at my friends house - this is their routine - sauna, cold plunge, jump - it’s for your lymphatic system which promotes lymphatic drainage which helps protect the body from disease and infection. 4. Being in a bikini is the best outfit for these activities especially in this order."
And despite the cruel comments, Julianne went on to reveal that she's "never been healthier." She later opened up about various health conditions and life experiences that also led to her current body.
"I was full of inflammation in my 20’s and had a marker for an auto immune that I addressed and committed to over a year and a half ago. I’ve frozen my eggs over the last few years which also shifts the body fluctuation. I’ve never been healthier or happier from the inside out. Grief, loss. Sadness and fear also get stored in the body and we hold on to that in different ways. I made it a huge priority to accept, express, process and release a lot of emotions over the years."
She added that the playful side viewers saw in the video is her most authentic self and a reflection of how safe she feels in her own skin. Julianne encouraged those who weren't used to seeing her like this to tap into their silly side as well, because it can make life a little more enjoyable.
In return, fans rallied behind her, sending uplifting messages filled with positivity, like this one: "For all those uptight, judgmental people; she is enjoying a day focusing on her physical and emotional wellbeing. Sauna, red light, cold plunge, rebounding, dancing, and laughing. That is not strange. It’s something we should all be doing!"
Or these: "Ignore the haters!! You have never looked better! Gorgeous, Successful and living your best life!!!" "Please be kind. don't be the reason someone didn't eat today. don't be the reason someone hates their body don't be the reason why someone doesn't join in on a conversation. don't be the reason why someone hates themselves. trust me, it sticks with them forever."
And I couldn't leave out this feel-good comment: "Why when a woman is happy, confident and comfortable with herself do people get concerned and judge harshly?"
As well as this reminder of how much fans love seeing Julianne be her true self: "Everyone so judgy. She’s in the shape of her life, she’s clearly LOVING life, and is wearing a BIKINI in warm weather…in water. Would you prefer she wear a snowsuit? Grow up, ladies. Your jealousy and tearing down of someone so joyful is not a good look on anyone. @juleshough , I love your content and how you are just unapologetically YOU!!!!"
I love that Julianne is having fun with life and unbothered by who takes offense to it! You can read her full message and watch her spa day video below:
StopBullying.gov is an organization that provides resources to prevent harassment and bullying against children. Stomp Out Bullying offers a free and confidential chat line here.