Jessea lives in Hawaii and is a close friend with many of the divers from there and around the world. We decided to feature Jessea since she will be the first freediver in history from China to compete at a CMAS World Championships. 2019 marks the first year China will be a member of CMAS much like 2018 was the first year for the United States. We wish Jessea the best of luck in Roatan and congratulate her! Enjoy her story. Get to know her, and we hope that you find a nugget of inspiration from Jessea’s story.
Jessea Lu
How long have you been freediving?
This is my 5th year. My first freediving course was in August 2014 with Performance Freediving International.
What, or who, inspired you to freedive?
After I moved to Hawaii, I heard people talking about freediving and spearfishing. I was always curious about it. It was on one of my scuba diving trips when I saw freedivers move very gracefully in the water that I decided to put some serious effort towards learning this skill.
Why do you freedive, and what has it done for you?
Freediving has helped me to become more aware of my thoughts and my body. It seems to enrich my experience of living by allowing new feelings and sensations to enter the conscious mind. I am learning a lot about myself and having fun with that.
What are your future freediving goals?
To be wiser, healthier and stronger
What is your profession and other hobbies?
I obtained a PhD degree in Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics in 2011. Since then, I have worked as a scientific advisor/consultant in the healthcare industry. Now I am taking on a new role as a professional athlete in freediving. I also enjoy cooking and creating my own recipes.
What advice about freediving would you like to offer readers?
Water is therapeutic and joyful if you allow it to be. Freediving is one of the watersports that offers that experience. Everyone can learn to participate in freediving at his/her own level of comfort. Of note, it is very important to take proper safety precautions when doing any type of breath-holding in the water.
