A Jewel in UH: The Dharma Bum Temple

By Romina Espinosa

In the spring of 2026, I participated in an eight-week Engaged Buddhism Training Program through the Dharma Bum Temple (DBT). This free program taught me many valuable lessons and provided enriching experiences, including:

• Daily Practice: Learning how to incorporate meditation into a daily routine.

• Immersive Retreats: Participating in meditation retreats at two Buddhist temples within San Diego County.

• Community Connection: Engaging in weekly discussions about Buddhism with a supportive community of other Westerners.

• Service: Volunteering for a meaningful cause at a local nonprofit.

A Welcoming Space for All

If you haven't heard of the Dharma Bum Temple yet, I highly recommend you visit this jewel of a place located right here in University Heights at 4144 Campus Ave. (www.thedharmabums.org). Whether you are a religious person or not, have an interest in Buddhism as a religion or a philosophy, or simply feel curious about meditation, the Dharma Bum Temple is a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

True to its community mission, all of its programs are entirely free. These include:

• Distributing sandwiches to the hungry and unsheltered in downtown San Diego.

• Daily meditations featuring open Q&A sessions.

• Buddhist Recovery Programs designed for those overcoming addictions of any type.

Romina Espinosa (Lima, Peru) is a professional interpreter and translator based in San Diego. A left-handed, eclectic soul, Romina holds degrees from UC San Diego and the University of Oviedo in Spain.