Hello friends! Let's hang out, I'll show you a few new favorite things, ask for your opinion on bangs/fringe. And chat about workbooks for self-development. Thank you for being here and Happy Holidays! 00:00 Hello 00:20 Backpack amzn.to/3TJ4XzH 03:37 ESMA HOME candles 12:53 Bangs, fringe. Your opinion? 22:15 Life update 25:40 Shadow self journal amzn.to/3RD3fgN 27:31 Self-compassion workbook amzn.to/3tL76QK Thank you for the amazing years together! ♥♥♥

“Dumb ass rose” 😂😂😂 I couldn’t stop laughing ☠️

We miss you! These are my favorite. I just have some tea and enjoy my time with you. So glad you’ve treated yourself ❤️ I slipped ahead to your life update and I’m so excited for you! Therapy changed my life. Just having someone to listen and give you that space to talk is beautiful. Proud of you Maria. We love YOU, and I know we want you to serve yourself. Love love love you.

You seem to be so much more light and silly and back to your true self in this video. I’m so happy you found someone to help you, working on ourselves is one of the most difficult yet important things we can do in this life. Seeing you like this lifts my spirit and my heart, your hard-work is paying off.

Hairdresser here 👋 I think you would really suit a more natural darker blonde. Highlights and lowlights would look so good! Also think you would really suit a side parting face frame/bangs! With maybe a little layer throughout. Think Rachel Green season 8/9! I love these videos so much! They are more tingle inducing than actual asmr videos 💕 Thank you and happy new year! Xx

As a long time therapist,I am so pleased you found someone you can relate to. It's all about the connection. It also takes courage to take ourselves on! Great job Maria

Maria I’m always so impressed by your willingness to be self-reflective and your desire to grow and explore new areas of yourself. Also, as a licensed mental health provider, it makes my heart so happy to hear you describe the power of good homework.

I think giving bangs a go is a great idea! Worst case scenario, you don't like it and grow them back out! No harm, no foul. And you'll never really know if you dont try!

There’s something about Maria’s normal spoken voice hauls that is just so relaxing ❤❤

I think going back to religion and spirituality when you’re feeling more fulfilled and less down will help you get more out of both. Thank you for sharing your story because it’s very relatable.

I'm so happy to see this video, Maria! First, just want to say that the wispy bangs look great on you. They give you a bright and peppy look. If you aren't sure about actually cutting your hair though, the clip in ones do look good, you just gotta find a better color match. Also, super proud of you for trying therapy again! Finding the right therapist is so important, and I'm so happy you found someone you like. Even if you only go once a month, having someone to talk about your feelings with openly is great. Sometimes they have suggestions that you wouldn't have thought of yourself, even if they seem obvious. I could tell right from the beginning of the video that you seemed happier and more relaxed and open. And also really glad that you listened to everyone who was worried about you, even if it wasn't quite what you wanted to hear at the time. I really believe everyone was truly concerned about you, even if some people were not so nice about it. It says a lot about you as a person that you were willing to hear everyone out even when it was difficult. You're such an intelligent and loving person, so it was difficult to see you cutting things you liked out of your life. I'm so happy you are taking time to consider what is truly best for YOU. Whether that ends up being religion, spirituality, or just mindfulness, your community will support you. It might not be easy, but it's worth it. I'm definitely going to look into the shadow work journal you mentioned, it sounds interesting. Wishing you the best, Maria! 💜

Hi Maria I’m so happy for you❤ I could sense a lighter demeanor and freer spirit in you from the beginning of the video. We love you and support you and I wish you a beautiful 2024. PS I loved the bangs and that darker blonde color of the extension against your skin tone. PSS I’m so glad your insurance led you to a more fitting therapist. Sometimes you have to “date around” to find someone you vibe with. Therapy has been instrumental in my healing in many different life stages so I love to hear it’s been beneficial for you. Big hugs💞

i think the wispy bangs would look really cute, and if you get tired of them you can just push them to the side!

💕 Much love to you Maria on your journey of healing and self discovery. Be gentle with yourself, it’s in your KZfaq name! Glad for you that you’ve found a good therapist 🤗

Oh my god, I'm so happy you found a good connection with a therapist, Maria!! It's painful to visit our shadow side, but once we cross the river, we become so much wiser and more peaceful. I always say the best decision I have made in my life was going to therapy. 10 years after my first appointment has passed now and I never thought I could experience peace within my mind and heart. Keep going, good job!!!!

Dear Masha, I have been watching you for the past 10 years and I must say, it has been a pleasure to see you grow. You feel like a big sister to me (as I'm 33 years old) and I appreciate your valuable advice and approach towards life. Thank you for always being honest and open with us, especially in a world full of deceit and fake people. Best regards from Dominican republic

I know we’re all just in a parasocial relationship with you, but I think you should be proud of your journey into therapy! And it sounds like you’re really working on yourself. Truly admirable to face your fears ❤❤❤

I'm one of those people who left a constructive comment on those vids but they DEFINITELY came from a place from love. One person's beliefs will be different from the next (like I am pretty spiritual) but the main thing is that it has to come from an organic place within us. I'm glad you considered what the comments said and that you sought out therapy! Also side note, I too am candle obsessed and my bath and body works candle collection continues to grow... lol

I'm so happy. I was afraid you would be scared of sharing your life. I had a time with organized religion that was scary to my loved ones and it took me about 5 years to get out of. I'm proud of you. I also wanted to say that with watching your videos over the years, I wonder if possibly you were searching for community, which organized religion provides (and possibly abuses). Also with all that's going on in the world, it's natural to grasp for something. I hope you don't beat yourself up. And you said you've never really had self compassion, it's difficult to grow but I hope you do. I think your daughter is very lucky to have a mom like you putting in the hard work, she will benefit from it too. Wish you the best. Also I got bangs like 3 years and it made me immensely happy. I think you'll look great with curtain bangs. Best to you❤

I think the bangs suit you so well! Super cute and fun

I can see such light in your eyes, you are radiant dear. I’m so so proud of you, and just so happy for you. Thank you for sharing your journey so vulnerably.

So proud of you Maria. I’ve never seen a more… grounded(?) version of you. Religious/spiritual triggers wreak havoc on our self-image, community, body… just as any other. I stand with you on your journey to accepting your shadow self, self compassion, and healing. You were a huge instigator for that journey myself about 7 or 8 years ago. I’m glad you are opening your heart to _you_

Being from the UK, as soon as you said ‘four candles’ I couldn’t stop smiling and thinking of The Two Ronnies!

I'm so glad you have been able to find a great therapist and take a step back to just focus on choosing paths that you truly feel will be in your best interests and best for your mental and psychological and spiritual health. ❤ Even if the path ends up being the same you were on, it's so important to be able to fully evaluate and understand WHY it's the right path for you instead of being pulled in a direction by unconscious or emotion-packed forces from yourself or others! It sounds like you have a really great therapist whose style fits you well! I hope you have a fantastic new year and amazing 2024!

The fringe (bangs) takes years off you, Maria!! I love the look on you. Go for it!! I think you'd also look good with a blunt cut shoulder length bob.

Some of the best advice I received in therapy, was this: Life is a work of art, so try not to be afraid to paint with all of the colors. Feel all of the feelings. Happy New Year everyone!

Self compassion is what my therapist has taught me as well and it has changed my life. It took some time for me to feel it, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I’m so glad you are experiencing it as well with a therapist you like!!

I'm obsessed with the bangs, but not just the bangs. I actually love that warm golden, honey color!

honestly the bangs are cute but I think your hairstyle is the most elegant and classic the way it is! maybe a change of colour would be nice too, I think you'd look great with a darker blonde!! also, it's lovely to hear you're working on yourself, and I hope you're able to transition back into spirituality and religion easily and joyfully when you're ready! ❤

I am so proud of you for taking space and prioritizing your own healing right now. Your energy is wonderful, you seem confident and joyful and open hearted. I’m so glad you have a therapist you are connecting with! Sending you love 🤍

I'm very happy to hear you're feeling well and working on self-compassion! I think with time you will be able to return to whatever it is that makes you happy (spirituality or whatever else) and engage with it in a healthy way that leaves you feeling empowered and not anxious. I love that you see the good in people and can recognize that most people want to help, even when they don't phrase their thoughts in the most compassionate way. I wish I could try to be that way a little bit more myself. All the best to you, Maria!

“I don’t think I have a thing…I’ll stop talking” 🤣🤣 Love her!!!

I’m so glad that you’ve found a therapist that you are finding helpful. What a gift. Therapy has certainly been a game changer for me. ❤ Happy New Year, Maria, we love you!

You seem so grounded and on such a healthy (even though not always easy) journey! I loved hearing this life update. Big hugs!

Your life update makes me so happy!! I won't repeat what others have said far more eloquently than I could, but I am so so proud of you!! Therapy is the BEST, I hope you continue to enjoy your introspective journey.

The bangs give you quite a trendy and youthful look. I like them. You had me in stitches with the damask rose thing. 😂💕

I’m so happy you sought therapy and found a good fit, you deserve all the best, Maria! Therapy can be really difficult, especially when you have trauma you have to deal with. Best of luck to you on this journey!

I'm so glad to hear you are working on being kinder to yourself. You said it well - it is a painful process to get to a point of feeling better, no matter what the situation is.

Maria you truly are a warrior woman & I feel really privileged that you share this with us & am thrilled for you that you are finding the therapy helpful, if hard. I will definitely be looking up that shadow work workbook. I got some very strong negative feedback from someone I deeply love over the holiday and I need to really reflect on it. It is very painful, but also very real & an act of love for yourself & relationships to go there. You help me feel brave enough to do it. The very best 2024 to you & your family.

it brings a tear to my eye knowing you found a therapist you clicked with

Masha, I am so happy you are giving you so much love! Therapy literally changed my life, in better… ♥️ Thanks to be such a good human being! Greetings from France

Wow, got to the end of the video and for some reason im crying hearing about your therapy journey. I think thats what i need too.😭 I am LOVING how unapologetically open you are being on this channel!❤

Maria/Masha thank you for the YEARS of healing you have bought me to over the years. You deserve every bit of peace and happiness. Your energy has touched so many people in this world and brightened our lives. I know it will shine back to you and you will find healing ❤️💖

It's interesting because in a lot of modern witchcraft spaces there's a big emphasis on doing shadow work as part of your path so interesting you found it after taking a break from spirituality. I'm glad you've found a therapist who you're able to connect to and I hope the sessions are what you need them to be.

Loved watching this update from you, Maria! Wishing you luck and peace on your therapy journey! The thing about healing is that you're always going to be healing, it's a never-ending journey. Be gentle and easy on yourself, we're all just consistent works in progress. Wishing you and your family the best new year!

im so so so proud and happy for you that you made what could not have been an easy decision to try therapy again. keep doing the work masha ❤ sending love and compassion

I've had bangs for 20 years LOL so I feel like this is my time to shine!!! first of all, your forehead is not large at all, so don't worry about that. I do like the look with bangs. I also like it without. but for your personal consideration, here are some key pros/cons I've noticed about having bangs. for pros, bangs make sophisticated hairstyles very easy. you can throw your hair up but leave your bangs out and boom, your messy bun now looks Brigitte Bardot! also as you age, bangs conceal forehead lines lol. finally, bang hairs are so short that it is more difficult to heat damage them compared to the lengths of your hair. so to an extent, you can style and style away---which is important, because the biggest con is that bangs have to be styled or they just go wonky. depending on where your cowlicks have grown, you could be looking at round brushing with the blowdryer every day. also, bangs get greasy so much faster because they sit on your forehead, so you could have to wash your hair more, use extra dry shampoo, etc. they can also unfortunately make your forehead break out. I would keep in mind also that if your hair grows an average of half an inch a month, you could be looking at a year or more of grow out time just to get from eye level to below the chin :( so if potentially regretting your choice worries you, I'd consider going for more of a longer curtain bang style which is easier to tie back and part off to the sides. finally, my last point to consider is that bangs technically thin your hair by taking the front section of your hair and isolating it from the rest. so unlike trying on a clip-on bang and adding more hair, you would technically be losing a little volume. as a last piece of input, I had highlights for 4 years and unfortunately the process of highlighting really thinned out my hair. it might be effecting you that way too, just considering the way you were addressing your front layers. I think it happens from the repeated foiling process, which typically targets the front more for a money piece or just generally involves re-bleaching the lengths of your hair multiple times. that deeper blonde color that looks like your natural color looked incredible on you, so why not go for it? I think the little bit of contrast really makes your eyes pop. edit: I'd also recommend going to a salon if you were to go that route, because dyeing highlights to a lower level can be tricky (I learned that the hard way....) good luck with your hair journey! you are beautiful; you'll look great no matter what you choose.

If you're interested in the thinner bangs, maybe look into korean "see-through bangs"! I don't know if they invented the term but that's where I hear about them all the time. Also I'm glad you've found a therapist you click with! Self-examination is so painful for me too, but there's something reassuring in the feeling that you're finally untangling all the mess hidden within. I'm so glad you're on that journey and hope it eventually leads to good places 💪

Maria!! I am so happy you are on this path for therapy and most of all that you seem very hopeful and comfortable with this new therapist. Happy new year! ❤

I think a soft strawberry blonde, would suit you nicely, when it comes to colour. I think without bangs.

I say yes to the bangs! I vote a layered cut, few inches past shoulder length long bob with some wispy curtain bangs 🩷 Maybe even a bronde color, like soft brown hilights Super classic and classy!

Maria, i don't know you at all but you have always seemed to thrive when you listen to your inner voice. I'll never forget when you shared that vision you had about moving to California. To me, that revealed your natural connection to the divine that lives in each of us. You appear pure of heart so it made me sad that you were judging yourself harshly. Good luck on your path. Life is bumpy for all of us! As for your hair, you will look great with bangs but they are a pain to grow out. But its only hair! What the heck! What about becoming a brunette? With your blue eyes it would be striking!

Maria, I hope this finds your way to you. I can honestly say that when you told us that you had embraced Christianity and got baptisted, I was genuinely thrilled for you. How you talked about how much fulfillment you had and the joy it brought to you. It actually restored my faith journey within myself, and I've become more active in faith since that time. It's discouraging to hear you're struggling with it and have turned away from it so quickly, but I understand it can be overwhelming as a new believer. Please do not let the negative comments or overwhelming feelings about embracing God fully in your life stop you from doing so. God knows your heart and knows what's best for you. He knows you are not perfect and does not expect you to be in your faith journey. I pray that you will embrace him once again because all of the self-realization in the world can not compete with the genuine fulfillment in seeking God's will for your life. I feel this in my own life as well. I will continue to pray for guidance and clarity in your life for you. Blessings to you and yours in the new year. ❤😊

I’m so glad you found a therapist you really click with! That process can be rough. I’m also excited for you in your “focusing on the self” journey!! I know from my own experience it’s an emotional roller coaster, but it’s so so worth it.

I am really really happy to hear that you are focusing your efforts inwards to help heal some of your traumas and find healthy coping skills. I'm have been silently following you for years now and I'm so proud of your progress ❤️

So glad to hear you are in a more grounded space. Thanks for sharing with us. Take care of yourself, much love to you and your family. Cheers and happy new year!

I was probably one of the 'negative' comments about the Christianity. I am so proud that you found support. Look again when stronger and less likely to be manipulated. We love you x

I'm so happy to hear you've given therapy another try and it's a better fit! Shadow and self compassion work is so helpful and transformative. So glad to hear that you're focusing on yourself ❤ the tone of this video is really different and you seem much more relaxed. If you want any book/KZfaq recommendations for shadow work i have a few that have really helped me. Also: the bangs are cute!

I am sooooo in awe of you. You are such a fantastic human being. You saw people’s concern for you and you took it seriously and interpreted it generously - not many people are strong enough to do that. And then you went and took action, to take care of yourself and focus on you. I’m so happy for you, you’re incredible. ♥️

Ohhh darling!! We need this eye "look" tutorial!! So happy to see you pop up today! Happy New Year everyone! 🎉🎉🎉❤😊 Dumbass rose 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

I think the sort of wispy bang looks so cute on you! Definitely very fresh and fun.

Oh Maria I’m so happy for you! I love that you have found a fantastic therapist, and you’ve found liberation and joy in your therapeutic journey. I think the decision to step away from religion and spirituality to focus on your personal journey is wonderful. I hope you continue to experience happiness and that you update us on your journey! ❤

A good word is a beautiful bird. When you release it from your tongue, it will sing in the hearts of others. Let our morals be a bouquet of flowers. Life we ​​give to those around us is its fragrance. Kindness and its color. The purity of our hearts. Its nectar is a smile. May you have good days.

Maria thank you so much for sharing your vulnerability with us. I'm so glad to hear that you gave therapy another try. It is really about finding someone that you connect with. I appreciate you and your genuineness. You are a beautiful soul. Best of wishes in the new year.

You seem much happier it's wonderful

Maria I have always felt faith and spirituality are very personal things. You do not have to study relentlessly or compare your knowledge or state of Grace with anyone else. I think it’s like life - we learn as we go and our life experiences can influence the path of our faith and the sense of self can move the needle at times. You need no barometer for your “progress”. You need no one to assess it. You are exactly where you are supposed to be at this point on your path. ❤

You look STUNNING with the bangs!!!! I would definitely cut them similar to the ones you wore in this video, because straight full bangs only flatter a few faces. It makes you look really serious. Some wispy bangs like these should be perfect ❤

Maria, so glad to see you again! Can you please give us an update on your skin treatments? I can’t remember the name of the machine you showed us a couple of years ago, but you look younger every year. ❤Please update on what you think is working.

that deeper blonde color looks GREAT on you. your blonde hair is super pretty as well, but that other color makes your eyes really pop

Maria just want you to know that I’m praying for you. You are a light.

I will admit it took me 3 tries to get through this awake. lol I swear your regular voice is even tingleier then your ASMR voice. So happy for you regarding therapy and wellness over all. ❤

i think bangs look great on you maria! i had bangs for several years and i'm really thinking about cutting them again. i think they made my eyes look bigger. bangs can be really versatile because you can play with where they sit and you can clip them back if you want. i think straight bangs would really suit you :)

Maria, The bangs are cute! I almost laughed when you pulled out the clip-in, I think I have the same one in my color! 😂 I toyed with the idea a while ago, but after learning how much daily styling work they can be I decided to wait. I really don’t feel like adding more time to get ready in the morning works for me, but if it does for you then it might be a great change to your style! Also, I’m glad you shared an update on your spiritual journey. Thank you for being vulnerable with us. I’m so sorry that your walk with Christianity was burdened by such a traumatic experience. I hope that in the future things will look brighter for you mentally and emotionally. 🤍 I will continue to pray for you!

I am so happy to hear you are having a better experience with therapy Maria, sending you love and always wishing for the best for you 💖

Get the bangs!!! Just make sure they’re feathered when they’re cut in 🥰 If you don’t like them, just grow them out! I did just that and it took approx. 12-18months x

Hi Maria! I always love your videos, I have been following both of your channel for many years now. And I am very excited for you about your new approach to healing. As a shadow work facilitator I truly believe that lasting changes only come when we go and unpack those hidden old emotions. Wishing you a lot of lightness and self-compassion in your self discovery journey. 🙏✨

I love This!! "This is what I look like & I like Myself!" 💜

I grew up Catholic, in the chruch often. As an adult I do not practice the religion. I dont practice at all. I believe in a higher power. What that is I dont know and almoat find comfort in not knowing. Religion is tricky. Give yourself some grace. Therapy is key. I think in alot of people in our age group it seems. I dont know. Amyway, we love you so much Maria. You're genuinely a very sweet, intelligent and kind soul.

Soo happy you are taking time to focus on yourself. It’s so important but so hard to do. Have so much admiration for you masha!!! ❤ P.S big fan of the bangs. You should look at a mix between wispy full bangs & curtain bangs. They’d look super cute!

These are the type of videos that I look forward to! Love it, like we’re on FaceTime ❤

OH MY GOD, you have to get bangs, they look beautiful on you. Not to mention (you already look very young) but those bangs are so flattering and make you look younger. It’s very refreshing and sweet :)! I think you should try them out!

I know you’ve done the purses before but I’m DYING for a leather backpack video! I don’t even care if it’s a role play or not- just you and leather backpacks please 🤤

I’m so glad you found a good therapist!! You genuinely seem so much lighter and happier! Your twinkle is back! :) I began my therapy journey in 2020 and did shadow work as well! It helped me so much and it completely changed my perspective and outlook towards myself. ❤

Your journey parallels mine so much and when Covid shut the church down, I felt a freedom and peace that I hadn’t felt in a long time. It’s ok to take time for yourself and heal, really heal in a way that only self reflection and self nurturing can do. ❤️ Also, you would look gorgeous with any hairstyle but I love the long pieces wrapped around the bun- so chic! Wishing you a beautiful 2024!

Maria, I am glad to see you back and glad you’re feeling better. I hope you can lean into Jesus as you continue healing ❤️‍🩹

You and Everyday Mary (Southern sounds' other channel) never ever fail to cheer me up and motivate me to work harder and try to embrace my flaws rather than push them away, and I always come away from both your channels with a kick of motivation. Thank you for being the lovely soul you are, Masha ❤️❤️❤️

I am SO happy to hear about your journey in self discovery and understanding your own power!! I started seeing a therapist after years of trauma and it's helped immensely

i love the bangs!! but i think more of a wispy bang would look good so it’s not such a huge jump, definitely some framing pieces as well 🫶

I really like the bangs!! You can always ask for them to be cut on the thinner side so they are easy to grow out if you change your mind x

I've just started therapy and it's making such a big difference. I was really lucky to find someone who I feel comfortable with. Glad to see that you have found a good therapist for you too. I have also found the book Tiny Traumas eye opening and it's definitely helped, especially the idea that not all trauma is caused by huge one off events.

You seem much lighter in spirit in this vlog! Whatever you're doing it's definitely working for you. Glad to see you happier and hope you and your family had a lovely holiday!! And Happy Early New Year 🎉

Yes to bangs!! You look so good with them, I also think a longer angled bob suits your face shape as well

I love that you want a little bit of a change, as you should! I personally think that changes from time to time make us feel 'refreshed'. Go for it, girrrl! My favorite are the bangs, they actually really accentuate your eyes beautifully. And the best thing about bangs is that they grow fast, so don't worry if you don't like them.

8:00 “that was a good hit” 😂

Maria, I had to jump on and say a huge THANK YOU for recommending and sharing the Mindful Self-Compassion workbook. I ordered it shortly after you shared this video and it’s already been so good! I have been on a healing journey after and incredibly hard year that prompted me to seek therapy and begin doing the work of inner healing. This workbook is just another tool and resource I can use to keep propelling me along my journey. I’m always so encouraged when I hear other people are going through similar journeys and thankful when they’re willing to share what’s working for them. Thank you so much for sharing who YOU are with us and for being on this journey of life together with us ❤

If you follow the path of self-healing you need to be very brave. Self-healing is a life-long journey full of adventures. It's like a treasure hunt. Take your time to evolve. Whatever is touched by the light of consciousness is not lost anymore and will heal, grow and gift you in so many ways .. All my best wishes for you ❤

Hi Maria ! For you hair, rather than bangs i think you should first try a curtain bang 🎀 here's my reasoning: curtain bangs would frame that beautiful face of yours, without distracting from your most striking features which in my opinion is your eye area ! I think bangs tends to draw attention away from the eyes, and rather to the mouth area. It's not a bad thing per say - i think you'd look gorgeous no matter what hair style you'd went for - but i just think you'd look very good with curtain bangs ❤

I think you should go for the bangs!! You can always pin them up if you absolutely hate them but I got bangs after years of contemplating and I’ll never go back! Best decision for me. And I had bangs my entire childhood and hated them. You’ll learn to style them yourself. I feel like they make me more feminine :)

since you asked: I like the bangs on you! just try to find the right one for you face shape and it will be alright. I cut my bangs myself and I think having them is so much fun (it also makes you look younger, I think!) I'm also so happy to hear about your therapy journey, I truly wish you nothing but happiness and peace. shadow work is so powerful and hard, I'm proud of you for going through with it. take your time, I'm sure it will be a beautiful process. take your time with spirituality too, no need to hurry, God will be there for you when you are ready to come back. happy new year to you and to your loved ones! much love, Carol

From the other side of the world, I bought the journals you recommended. Thank you🤞🏼🤍