Lu lu LAi*

Hangzhou, China

中 国 · 杭州

A dedicated somatic practitioner and facilitator, currently focusing on the field of Contact Improvisation (CI). Rooted in a disciplined physical foundation—holding a Yoga Alliance RYT 200 certification with extensive training in Vinyasa, Prana Flow, and Yin Yoga—they have committed to the systematic research and practice of CI since 2023.

Their journey is characterized by a global perspective, having participated in numerous international CI festivals and retreats across Norway, Spain, Germany, and Italy. This was further deepened through long-term immersive studies at Towards (Thailand). Their movement philosophy has been profoundly shaped by the lineages of esteemed mentors, including Yasukichi Suzuki (Japan), Sasha Dodo (Russia), Dolores Dewhurst Marks (UK), and Zhang Xiao (China).

Inspired by cross-cultural practices and embodied dialogue, she perceives Contact Improvisation as a path toward somatic integration and a language for authentic human encounters. Currently based in Hangzhou, she actively fosters the local CI community by organizing regular Jams, workshops, and international exchanges.

Within the shared field of physical interconnectedness, she continuously explores a life philosophy of how social relationships can co-exist poetically. Her practice is guided by a steadfast commitment to the principle: "Awareness through the body; learning through relationship."

I hold the conviction that somatic practice is a profound process of self-discovery and self-transformation.

Within this space of encounter and connection, we may find inspirations—at once nascent and infinite—while moving toward a more autonomous and liberated existence.

I look forward to meeting you, in the fullness of our embodied presence.

Professional Certifications & Somatic Training:

  • RYT 200 | Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher Certification

  • Vinyasa Flow Advanced Training | 300 Hours (Combined programs under Wu Meng and Ren Jinsong)

  • Prana Flow Mastery | 100 Hours (Under Zeng Zeng)

  • The Radiance of Yin (Level I & II) | Comprehensive Somatic Study (Under Shao Min)

  • Advanced Hatha & Vinyasa Training | 200 Hours (Under Shao Min)

International CI Festivals & Immersive Residencies:

  • Norway & Italy | Contact Silence Retreat

  • Spain | Asturias Contact Improvisation Festival

  • Germany | Freiburg Contact Festival

  • Japan | Humble CI Gathering

  • Thailand (Towards & Related Programs):

    • Inspiral Intensive (Multiple residencies: 5-week and 3-week durations)

    • Focus JAM (2-month deep immersion)

    • The Act of Giving (Somatic research and practice)

I look forward to this project with profound anticipation and curiosity. The ideal community I hold in my heart—characterized by pure practice, nourishing food, the warmth of companionship, an atmosphere of openness, and generous support—is precisely the landscape this project begins to outline. I am eager to immerse myself in deep practice and encounter a multitude of diverse perspectives.

Moreover, I am deeply curious about the narratives that will emerge:

I also wish to share that my primary focus during this residency will be an exploration of the theme of "Boundaries." At this moment, it possesses no predetermined form; rather, it is a process—a continuous "fermentation" occurring within my life and my body. I intend to approach this inquiry with radical openness and spontaneity, allowing the theme’s concrete form to emerge organically through interaction with the site and my fellow practitioners.

I look forward to our encounter— Whether through the medium of the body or the resonance of language, May we unfold the unknown together within the field of dialogue, support, and mutual witnessing.

Photography courtesy of LuluLAI*