An Inspired Chat

Written By Vanessa Dunn

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Vanessa Dunn. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Vanessa, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?

Wow, what an opener! Energy is one of my favorite concepts to dive into, because it is your true force of life. Yet, I’ve realized that without integrity, energy can run unchecked, and that can cause real havoc. It wasn’t until later in life that I truly began to understand integrity—not just as honesty, but as alignment between your values, actions, and words.

For me, integrity is the most effective catalyst for change. It means holding yourself accountable, keeping your word, and practicing what you preach. When you live that way, there’s nowhere to hide. Energy becomes focused, purposeful, and sustainable. Without integrity, energy is just movement. With it, energy transforms into transformation

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Vanessa Dunn, and I’m the founder of Mantra Moves, a mindful movement brand dedicated to helping people align body, mind, and spirit. I create mindful experiences that combine Pilates, breath work, meditation, sound and mantra — blending physical strength with mental clarity and emotional connection. What makes Mantra Moves unique is the way we invite people to move with presence, and intention, using movement as a tool for transformation, not just fitness.

At its heart, my work is about creating space — space to connect to yourself, to others, and to your greater purpose. Right now, I’m focused on expanding Mantra Moves with upcoming retreats, mindful circles, and digital content that empowers people to live with more presence, clarity, and joy. My vision is to help people harness the power of movement and mindset to elevate their lives, one breath, one motion, one mantra at a time.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I had to hide my mistakes. I thought showing imperfection meant weakness, that it would change how people saw me. That belief stayed with me for a long time and shaped how I approached life — always trying to appear flawless. Over time, I learned that vulnerability and honesty are where real strength lives. Now, I believe mistakes are not something to hide, but powerful opportunities to grow, learn, and connect more deeply with ourselves and others. The universe still tests me on this from time to time — the urge to hide mistakes or avoid embarrassment never fully disappears. But leaning into my integrity has taught me how to show up more authentically. Integrity isn’t just about doing the right thing when it’s easy; it’s about choosing to show up fully even when it’s hard. That choice transforms challenges into opportunities for growth, and it’s become one of the most important practices in my life.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
A simple message of belonging and authenticity, “You belong here. Live fully, mess and all. Your silly, messy moments are part of what makes you amazing, so don’t hide them. Don’t let anyone dim your light!”

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire Cher not just for her power, but for her character. Her beauty, artistry, dancing, and singing all flow from a place of authenticity and joy. She lives boldly, embraces her uniqueness, and inspires others to do the same — showing that true greatness comes from being yourself. She is an true Icon in my eyes.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
Peace comes through presence. And presence comes through joy and intention. For me, it’s most easily found through nature, movement, and art — the portals to peace. Whether hiking, cycling, swimming in the sea, dancing, practicing yoga or Pilates, or singing, these moments bring me home to myself.

Contact Info:

Vanessa Dunn
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