Lady GaGa feels she has got her ''spirit'' back.

The 'Born This Way' singer hasn't felt at her best over the past 12 months, because she's been ''betrayed'' but says she's now back to her best.

In an open letter to fans on her website Gaga Daily, the eccentric star said: ''Today is a really happy day for me. The past year was a challenge, and I'm so happy to have my spirit back. I felt in chains at times.

''Whether it be the record label disagreeing with me on single choices, or directors who could only create an idea of 'Gaga' or what I've 'done before' and weren't able to move forward.

''And there was also, of course, the incessant dragging of the most important single of my career in dead-beaten-horse-mud. Then there were all the personal moments. Betrayed by lifelong friends, mentors I've had for years suddenly taking advantage of me, and a massive struggle with my body image.

''I've grown and left most of these things behind, the monsters of fame are very real.''

Gaga says she now feels ''free'' as she has got rid of all the negative influences in her life.

She added: ''I am feeling blessed to have removed those from my life driven by money and luxury. It's all about the art of it. I feel free today.''