We believe in the power of love, commUnity and the healing benefits of being together. We believe yoga is for everyBody. We believe we are here for a greater purpose. Family owned and operated we are happy to serve you!
A little bit about us!
Meet Samantha: The Soul Behind Blue Buddha
Samantha’s career took off in the world of hair, where she mastered the art of crafting stunning colors and building real connections with her clients. After ten years of styling and chatting, she dove into the family’s hot yoga business, where she ran the show behind the scenes for five years. In 2018, she added RYT 200 yoga teacher to her list of creds.
A busy mom to two awesome teens, Sam gets how crucial it is to carve out time for yourself—whether that’s flowing through yoga, doing Pilates on her reformer or chilling with friends over coffee.
Her dream of creating a laid-back, community-focused coffee shop turned into a reality with Blue Buddha. Whether you’re grabbing your favorite drink or just in the mood for the ‘tea,’ Sam’s stoked to welcome you, serve you, and chat about whatever’s on your mind.
Karin’s Journey: A Shining Light in the Yoga Community
For nearly a quarter of a century, Karin has been a radiant force in the hot yoga world, guiding countless souls with wisdom and warmth. With certifications in five different yoga lineages, over 19,000 teaching hours, and 1,500 hours of training, Karin has had the privilege of studying with some of the most influential Yoga Gurus of our time. From the creator of Hot Yoga, Bikram Choudhury, to the founders of Kripalu and I AM Yoga, Amrit Desai and Kamini Desai, Ph.D., and even Yin Yoga’s Paul Grilley, Karin’s journey has been one of profound learning and deep gratitude.
In 2012, Karin’s vision took form with the creation of her Integrative System of Hatha Yoga—a game-changing approach that redefined the hot yoga experience in the valley. Her deep-healing, 60-minute format is still the heart and soul of The Blue and is taught in studios across the country.
Karin’s calling to serve others grew even stronger, leading her to create Hot Yoga University in 2012. The divine timing of it all allowed her to pass the torch of the studio to a student in 2020, before embarking on a transformative sabbatical by the ocean. This sacred time of healing brought a profound shift, and when she returned to the Arizona desert, she was renewed, free, and filled with a renewed passion to continue her journey.
Her vision of bringing people together in a deep, intimate community came to life through Blue Buddha—an inspiring blend of wellness, art, and heart, where her dedication to service meets Sam and Roy’s love for great coffee.
Blue Buddha is more than a space; it’s Karin’s dream manifesting—a place where we can all gather once again, reconnect, and thrive.
Meet Roy: The Coolest Barista in Town
Roy’s attention to detail is legendary—whether he’s folding towels with precision or polishing his car to perfection. An Army veteran and corporate America vet with 35 years of experience, Roy swapped his business casual for comfy yogi shorts in 2012 to help run the back office at their first hot yoga studio.
Now, he’s living his best life with his amazing wife, Karin, of 41 years, and enjoying every moment. You’ll find Roy behind the counter at Blue Buddha, where he’s everyone’s favorite barista. With his quick smile, friendly chat, and the best lavender lattes around, he’s always ready to brighten your day!