Fowler Yoga Retreat Attracts 40 Participants, Volunteers

On a beautiful, spring-like day, approximately 40 participants and volunteers gathered at the Buddhist Church of Fowler on March 8 for a yoga retreat. 

This event was sponsored by the BCA’s Center of Buddhist Education (CBE) and the Dharma Forward campaign.

As was befitting the Ohigan season when we appreciate the balance of the length of the days and nights, participants were given the opportunity to balance both the body and mind. 

Bob Matsueda, yoga and wellness Instructor who is certified as a yoga therapist by the Government of India, Ministry of Ayurvedic Medicine, led participants through a series of traditional movements emphasizing breathing. 

These concepts and exercises were presented in Matsueda’s gentle, non-competitive manner along with his usual good humor. We learned that yoga is much more than just poses (asanas). Yoga can be experienced by everyone, regardless of age or physical condition. Expansive breathing and movement, no matter how gentle or subtle, leads to calmness and a positive outlook to life, enabling us to share and give of ourselves to others. In this way, acts of kindness and service to others is also yoga. 

Following the morning session, we were all treated to a delicious vegetarian lunch prepared by chef Alan Hirahara, along with some local kitchen helpers. Even the most skeptical carnivores among us had to admit that the food was absolutely delicious and in harmony with the events of the morning.

Following lunch, we experienced the restorative qualities of Nidra yoga. Our yoga teacher guided us through deep relaxation, which is one form of meditation. 

Our bodies nourished and relaxed, we were ready to open our minds to learning about the relationship of Buddhism to yoga led by BCA Minister Emeritus Rev. Bob Oshita. 

Buddhism, originating in India, naturally is influenced by the concepts of yoga. Many of us learned for the first time that some of the ancient concepts of yoga are reflected in Buddhist art, temples and ritual elements, even our incense burners and candlesticks. It was a fascinating discussion of the influence of yoga on Buddhism and its various manifestations in different sects of Buddhism, including our own Jodo Shinshu tradition.

Dinner followed and Hirahara and his volunteers topped his lunch with an even more expansive menu that pleased everyone’s palate. It was a clear demonstration that Hirahara’s heart and selfless giving could be tasted in this delicious meal. 

After the events of the day, each participant shared their reflections on this experience. The yoga exercises, the relationship between Buddhism and yoga, and the communal experience of being with Dharma friends both old and new, gave us all an appreciation for how deeply we are dependent and connected to each other. 

Of course, after our reflections on the day came the time to just socialize and visit. Learning new ways of connecting with our bodies, nourished by delicious healthy food (well, maybe not the desserts), connecting with others and deepening our understanding of Buddha, made for a memorable day in Fowler. 

Our deepest thanks go to Rev. Patti Oshita in organizing the logistics of this event, the volunteers from the Fowler Buddhist Church who were so hospitable, our yoga teacher, Bob Matsueda, chef Alan Hirahara, and Rev. Bob Oshita, our Dharma teacher. Thanks also to the CBE and Dharma Forward for making this event possible.