In the summer of 2015, I was mapping out a new workshop and pondering the results of my self-work. I went to my studio, completed my movement practice and grabbed my notebook to write. What has my work taught me?

"let go of fear"

"stand in my power"

"learn how to love unconditionally"

"use my voice"

The phrases began pouring out and when I identified the themes, I began to write them in a way I could succinctly share with others. I wanted to affirm the desired result, since there is so much power in our words. They form our perception, consequently creating the way we experience the world.

This simple exercise inadvertently created my guiding ideas that continue to inform my art and lifestyle. They are certainly easier to say than to live, but they provide the guardrails that show me when I've swerved too much.

Straight from my notebook and making their internet debut, my guiding ideas:

• live bravely - without fear of loss, rejection or judgement

• speak clearly - be direct and say what you mean, mean what you say

• love openly - keep your heart open to fully give and receive love

I find these ideas are a great place to start for introspection. I'll ask myself where fear, confusion and blocks are hiding. Usually, it's enough.