When we apply the concept of DIY to Buddhism, we can define DIY Buddhism as studying, practicing, or evolving the self without the aid of Buddhist experts or professionals (i.e. formal teachers). Instead of home improvement projects, here we have self improvement projects.
DIY Buddhism goes all the way back to the Buddha himself and showed how the Buddha is the ultimate example of DIY Buddhism. So true! I can’t think of a better example of DIY Buddhism than Gautama Buddha himself.
Since 1995, anyone with a computer and an internet connection has access to the myriad Buddhist teachings and teachers all around the globe. And this increase in the accessibility and distribution of Buddhism is a huge game-changer. Sanghas are now virtual and global for the very first time and we are not only actively participating in them, we are actively co-creating them at the very same time. Through online meditation groups, virtual retreats, and Buddhist home study courses, all the great wisdom teachings are only a click or touchscreen away. I think this would blow the socks right off of Gautama Buddha (if he wore them).