Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Eric Liu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Eric, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear stories from your time in school/training/etc.

Hello, I’m Eric Liu. My journey began far from skyscrapers and studio mirrors, in the lush vineyards of rural Taiwan. I spent my childhood biking through the neighborhood, exploring nearby farms, and playing with friends until the sun dipped below the hills. Life in the countryside was simple, physical, and free.

A Twist of Fate and a Dance Floor

When I entered National Taiwan University to study English Literatures, I felt restless—like I was reading about life rather than living it. That’s when I dove deeper into movement: rugby, gymnastics, acting, swimming. It was gymnastics and acting that pulled me unexpectedly toward dance.

My serious dance journey began in the most unlikely place: Iceland. While there as an exchange student, I searched for ballet classes but couldn’t find any until a kind classmate scribbled a web address on a Post-it note. I emailed it—completely unsure of what I’d find. It turned out to be the National Ballet School of Iceland.

To my surprise, the school principal responded and invited me in. I showed up with zero expectations and walked out with a place at the school. That moment felt like magic—all my interests, from acting to gymnastics, seemed to converge into one singular calling: dance.

Schooling, Sweat, and Self-Discovery

Returning to Taiwan after Iceland, I resisted the conventional path of getting an office job and instead set off on a solo backpacking trip across Europe, visiting 15 countries. Everywhere I went, I asked the same question: What makes a life meaningful? Again and again, the answer pointed back to dance.

One year later, I was accepted into Taipei National University of the Arts, majoring in Dance. Training there was intense and humbling. An unforgettable moment came during my time in Tel Aviv, where I was sent through Cloud Gate’s Wanderer’s Project Award to study Gaga, a movement language developed by Batsheva Dance Company. On the first day, the instructor said, “Don’t perform. Listen.” That invitation to be present—to *feel* rather than perform—forever changed how I approached both dance and life.

In 2016, I moved to New York City on a Fulbright grant and then I trained at the Gelsey Kirkland Ballet Academy and the Joffrey Ballet School. I eventually performed with the American Ballet Theatre at the Metropolitan Opera House, which was surreal. Standing backstage at the Met, surrounded by world-class artists, I realized I had come a long way from the vineyards of my youth—but the curiosity and hunger were the same.

Pilates, the Alexander Technique, and Healing

Like many late-blooming dancers, I struggled with injuries, particularly chronic lower back pain. Several teachers recommended Pilates for injury prevention and muscle activation, so I gave it a try—and soon I was attending classes all over NYC. I found that Pilates not only helped my back but also deepened my overall body awareness and strength. Before long, I was training to become an instructor.

When my back pain resurfaced, I remembered the Alexander Technique from my ballet training. Its focus on body alignment and ease of movement resonated with me. As I began integrating both Pilates and Alexander Technique, I not only found relief but also discovered a profound passion for teaching. What began as a personal journey turned into a calling to help others move with greater ease and confidence.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The Heart of Wellness Genesis

I founded Wellness Genesis Pilates in Long Island City, New York, and create a space rooted in Classical Pilates, staying true to Joseph Pilates’ original principles—precision, control, and a deep mind-body connection. But my mission goes beyond technique. My goal is to create an experience that meets you exactly where you are.

Whether you’re looking to improve posture, manage pain, build strength, or enhance your overall wellness, Wellness Genesis is here to support you—step by step, breath by breath.

Breaking Down Barriers, One Movement at a Time

I know firsthand how daunting it can feel to begin a fitness journey. That’s why I work to create a welcoming, supportive environment where you can feel at ease—regardless of your background, experience, or body type. I offer sessions in English or Mandarin Chinese, with personalized programs for everything from weight loss and flexibility to strength building and post-rehab recovery.

At the end of the day, movement is not just about muscles or appearance—it’s about connection, healing, and discovery. And I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely. I believe that everything I’ve experienced—whether joyful or challenging—has shaped who I am today. Those experiences give me a unique perspective, and that’s what makes each of us special in our own way. My journey through dance, movement, and healing arts has been incredibly rewarding, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

That said, if I could revisit my path, I would have loved to start learning about business, marketing, and finance earlier. I only began diving into those areas when I decided to start my own business. It was a steep learning curve, but also an exciting one. I’ve realized how empowering it is to understand the business side of your passion.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start?

From day one, I made a promise to myself: I wouldn’t go into debt to start my business. I believed that beginning from a place of financial stability would allow me to grow Wellness Genesis with greater sustainability and confidence.

So, I got to work—taking on extra hours, living simply, and saving with purpose. Every dollar had a job. That mindset came in part from my cultural background and the values instilled by my parents, who taught me the importance of discipline and thoughtful planning. It wasn’t easy, especially in New York City, but the effort paid off. That financial foundation gave me the freedom to build my practice on my own terms—and it continues to guide how I run my business today, both ethically and responsibly.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://wellness-genesis.com/
• Instagram: @eric.dans
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093601793496
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-liu-wellness-genesis
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Wellnes_Genesis/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Wellness_Genesis