The Lazy Yogi

peaceful-wanderlust asked: i am really looking to deepen my spirituality and understanding of "buddhist" philosophies.. i just don't know where to start, there is so much to be learned. help?

There is so much to read and learn about buddhism that it can definitely be overwhelming. Just remember that the only stuff that matters is what changes you, transforms you. 

There are many schools of buddhism: Mahayana, Vajrayana, Theravada, and Zen. Even within those schools there are more divisions. 

My recommendation is the beautiful book Rebel Buddha by Ponlop Rinpoche. It is an amazing introduction to buddhism in very precise and direct language, written by a man attributed as a reincarnation of a tibetan buddhist lama.

Don’t just focus on the philosophies either. Learn the techniques of meditation and mindfulness and start practicing them daily. Once you have established a daily practice, the philosophies have a much more profound effect on your awareness. 

Buddhism has been described as a splinter that you use to remove the splinter of suffering. Once you have removed the splinter, don’t leave the splinter of buddhism in the wound. 

In other words, all of the teachings of buddhism are necessary until they aren’t. Learn just enough to unlearn what needs to be let go. But don’t think there is enlightenment to be found in consuming endless philosophies and commentaries, that would be inaccurate and overwhelming. 

Namaste, sis. :) Best of luck!