I first completed "The Artist's Way" book by Julia Cameron after college. I had just quit my job at a magazine to freelance. I had half a novel written, a few publication credits, an English degree, and some work writing for a tech company. But I had no guide, no structure, and no idea how to build the creative life I wanted.

Then I walked into a Borders Books (remember those?) and found a copy of The Artist's Way. The subtitle, "A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity" caught my eye. It was the first time I'd seen someone link creativity with spirituality. As a girl who regularly got lost in hours of writing in a soulful way, I felt an immediate 'yes' in my gut.

Before long I was doing my morning pages and taking myself on artist's dates. Working the 12-week book forged a solid foundation for a healthy creative practice that's seen me through two decades. Oh, and I finished that novel and, eventually, three more.

Twenty years later, and I'm still refining my creative practice, because I'm still growing and changing. This year, I started teaching Artist's Way workshops at a local yoga studio. We start with yoga to help us better embody the changes we're seeking. We journal and talk through the topics in the book and work the exercises. We share our lives. And then we close with meditation.

The lessons from TWA are still with me, but I'm rediscovering some, like the Creative Affirmations from the first chapter of the book. I love #3: "As I create and listen, I will be led." I need the reminder that creativity is as much about being open and following after what's already there than trying to rustle up inspiration.

If you need some creative affirmation in your life too, I've created a printable you can download for free at my store.

Also, if you're in the Raleigh area, I'd love for you to join me for an in-person Artist's Way workshop, including yoga, journaling exercises, discussion and meditation on Sunday, April 23, 2pm at Prana Yoga in Holly Springs, N.C.

Can't make the workshop but could still use creative support? Our next free, online Kriative Sangha meeting is Sunday, April 16th at 6pm. Register today!