Rising Stars: Meet Doris Lu-Anderson of Carlsbad, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Doris Lu-Anderson.

Hi Doris, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved being active. My journey began with college volleyball and continued as a graduate assistant leading classes in exercise, stretching, and flexibility. I went on to earn a master’s in Kinesiology (Sport Science) from Louisiana Tech and a Ph.D. in Sport Management from Florida State—experiences that gave me a strong foundation in movement science and wellness.

As my career evolved, I sought out new modalities to support whole-person well-being. After moving to San Diego, I transitioned from academic research to teaching at the community college level—a shift that allowed me to share what I love more directly and meaningfully. I’m a lifelong learner (a bit of a nerd!), always exploring new ways to serve others more deeply.

San Diego has been a beautiful setting for expanding my practice. I currently teach at MiraCosta College, whose vision—to transform lives through learning—beautifully mirrors my own. I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where students can reconnect with themselves through yoga and wellness.
A joyful twist in my journey came last summer when I joined the San Diego Senior Women’s Basketball Association (SWBA). I was new to the sport, but the ladies welcomed me with open arms. One of them—84-year-old “Mama Day”—began playing at 60 and now teaches me to dribble between the legs! Their passion and energy are deeply inspiring.

My husband, Mark, runs a local soup kitchen, where I’ve met countless volunteers who serve with humility and joy. Many are retired professionals, yet they continue to give back wholeheartedly. Their quiet dedication has shaped my own understanding of service and community.

These experiences have shaped the person I am and the way I serve others now.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Has it been a smooth road?
Not exactly—but each turn has brought a deeper sense of alignment and growth. Early in my career, I realized the trading industry wasn’t for me. With limited hands-on learning options in Taiwan’s traditional education system, I moved to the U.S. to pursue advanced degrees, where I found my passion in sport science and business.
Later, I returned to Taiwan to teach, following a traditional academic path. But the heavy workload and imbalance led to burnout. I pivoted again and found a professor position at Barry University in Miami. It was during my time there with the support of caring colleagues that I found space to heal and reconnect with my purpose.
Starting a new life chapter in San Diego, I began re-establishing my teaching career while immersing myself in yoga teacher and therapy training. These experiences invited me to look inward and transformed the way I teach, communicate, and care for others. I also continue to grow through a wellness business and personal development training.
With the support of my husband, Mark, we nurture our relationship through shared experiences, travel, and quality time together.
Life has its smooth stretches and its bumps, but I always return to this reminder from Louise Hay: “All is well. Everything is working out for my highest good. I am safe.”

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an associate faculty member at MiraCosta College and co-lead our 5-star, Yoga Alliance–accredited 200/300-hour teacher training program. I feel fortunate to collaborate with a passionate team at a college whose values align with my mission of empowerment through education and well-being.
Drawing from my background in kinesiology, yoga therapy, and wellness coaching, I specialize in integrating evidence-based movement science with holistic practices. Whether guiding group classes or supporting private clients, I meet individuals where they are—physically, mentally, and emotionally—creating a nurturing space for rest, healing, and sustainable growth.
My students span generations, from teens to individuals in their 70s and beyond. Together, we explore yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound healing, and monthly Moon ceremonies that help us stay attuned to nature’s rhythm. Inspired by one of my teaching mentors, Dr. Charles Nix (I called him “Big Cheese”), I foster an environment that’s warm, lighthearted, and joy-filled.
As a wellness coach, I also work with individuals to clarify their goals, set up accountability, and build practices that support their well-being.
What sets my work apart is this integrative approach—anchored in science, enriched by spirit, and expressed through compassion. I’m most proud of the trust my students and clients place in me—and the transformations we experience together, one breath at a time.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Everyone needs a supportive community—a tribe. I often share that even Tiger Woods had multiple coaches and a sport psychologist from a young age. We meet different mentors at different stages, and each one brings something special. The key is finding those who resonate with our values and support our growth.
To me, networking is about building genuine connections. As my friend David Zumaya, founder of Cafecito Business Networking, says: “Networking isn’t about selling—it’s about baking a relationship.” When we take time to build trust, those connections often grow into an authentic circle of support.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dluanderson/

Image Credits
Headshot: John Riedy. https://www.johnriedy.com/

The rest: Doris Lu-Anderson