Cheryl Burke Credits Celibacy To Being ‘An Intense Woman’

Cheryl Burke is opening up about her celibacy journey, crediting her personality and a journey of self-love for this milestone. This personal revelation follows a challenging period for the star, marked by a difficult divorce from Matthew Lawrence, finalized in 2022.

Cheryl Burke’s path to celibacy began after the dissolution of her three-year marriage to Matthew Lawrence in 2023. 

The celebrated dancer attributed her powerful choice to self-discovery and an honest assessment of her intensely passionate nature. Burke’s path to this decision was not easy.

She candidly discussed her past experiences with intimacy, admitting that she falls in love quickly, a trait she now recognizes as both a blessing and a challenge. “The thing is, you have sex with me, I fall in love fast,” Burke explained on Wednesday’s edition of iHeart Radio’s “I Do, Part 2” podcast. 

She acknowledged her work to understand herself better, stating, “I am such an intense woman … it is what it is, it’s who I am.” The dancer emphasized the importance of self-ownership in these experiences:

“The only thing that was real with whatever happened physically [is] that you allowed for it to happen.“ 

Burke also reflected on how past casual relationships chipped away at her sense of self, leading her to this profound realization.

Beyond simply abstaining from sex, Burke also declared her commitment to recognizing her worth and choosing to remain single until she finds a partner who truly deserves her.

She openly discussed her aversion to casual encounters, identifying as a “sober woman” focused on “respecting and loving myself.”  Burke made it clear on the podcast that dating is not on her agenda. When asked if it had been over a year since her last date, she confirmed, “Oh, for sure.”  

However, she admitted, “I still think guys are hot. That doesn’t mean, though, that they deserve me.” Burke also bravely revealed the impact of childhood sexual abuse, acknowledging that it has hindered her ability to be “vulnerable enough” for “truly intimate” relationships. 

Burke’s path of healing followed her difficult divorce from Lawrence, after which she openly discussed her newfound appreciation for self-love. The Blast reported that in a heartfelt Instagram post in January 2023, Burke assured fans that she was thriving.  

Her caption reflected a sense of peace and self-acceptance. “If I could describe how I feel in one word, I honestly couldn’t. Each day presents its bliss but also its challenges,” Burke wrote. 

Burke candidly described the ups and downs of her emotions, admitting to days of anxiety and profound peace. This journey, she explained, allowed her to connect with her true self and purpose, a discovery she is excited to continue.

“Today, I am proud to say that I am alone, not lonely,” Burke declared. She revealed that in the past, she might have sought solace in a rebound relationship, partying, or drinking to numb the pain of heartbreak.

However, this time, she chose a different path, a clearer, more conscious one.  Burke also shared her newfound routine of filling out her gratitude journal before bed.

Burke’s openness about her journey of self-love resonated deeply with her followers, sparking an outpouring of support and admiration. One follower expressed their joy for Burke’s happiness, writing, “So glad you are happy and taking care of yourself.”

Another fan thanked her for sharing her story, acknowledging the encouragement it provides to others navigating the aftermath of a relationship’s end. 

Burke’s strength and radiant smile struck many fans.  One admirer offered words of wisdom, commending her resilience, writing, “Do not let things guide you down. Slow down and see the miracles, there are so many positives. You’re an inspiration just being Cheryl.”  

Another netizen simply called her “a light,” thanking her for being authentically herself.  The outpouring of love culminated in one user gushing, “So proud of you, queen! Right here with you, sister! Doin’ the work!”

After marking her self-love achievement, the TV host celebrated six years of sobriety. In a social media post, Burke shared a natural selfie before opening up in the caption about the challenges and triumphs of her recovery.

The Blast reported that Burke began by acknowledging the five years she’s dedicated to her recovery journey, emphasizing the profound sense of purpose it has ignited within her.  

She described the journey as not linear, acknowledging the “rough patches” inherent in the process. Burke explained that sobriety has brought increased awareness, particularly in her relationships with loved ones, colleagues, and friends. 

A key aspect of her recovery, she shared, has been the practice of forgiveness and reduced judgment. Acknowledging the difficulty of maintaining sobriety, the 40-year-old bravely admitted that her divorce nearly drove her back to drinking.

However, she resisted the temptation, recognizing the potential consequences.

Cheryl Burke’s journey of self-discovery, marked by celibacy and sobriety, shows her commitment to healing.