Bestemming YOGA+Life Conference

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Bestemming YOGA+Life partnered to celebrate accessible and inclusive yoga practices and foster connection among participants on International Yoga Day,June 21, 2025!

This inaugural event was designed to expand yoga awareness and celebrate by bringing together yogis, instructors, authors, and enthusiasts for a day of practice, learning, and connection.

The day focused on showcasing yoga accessibility for all, including caregivers, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

"Our mission is to create an inclusive space where all participants, regardless of their background or abilities, can experience the benefits of yoga, where they are."

~Bestemming Yoga

Bestemming YOGA + Life —

A Day of Practice, Learning & Connection

Our vibrant gathering brought together yogis, teachers, wellness professionals, and community members for a full day of inspiration, learning, and mindful movement. The day began with a warm welcome and an energizing Opening Yoga Session led by Bestemming Yoga, setting the tone for connection and flow. A refreshing Stretch & Sip Break followed, offering time to mingle and recharge. Participants then immersed in a deeply soothing Sound Bath Healing & Stories experience with Christina Flanagan Bistis, creating space for reflection and renewal. After a Mindful Pause, we came together to nourish both body and mind during a delicious Yoga Brunch & Connect session. The afternoon featured a transformative workshop on Alignment, Accessibility & Inclusivity, facilitated by Denese Cavanaugh, offering valuable insights into creating welcoming and adaptable yoga spaces for all.

Our dynamic Future of Yoga Panel featured Denese Cavanaugh, Christina Flanagan Bistis, Lisa McCormick, Jason Westlake, and Dr. Derek Ferguson, who explored emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the evolving world of yoga and wellness. The day concluded with an uplifting session led by Kristiana Conti, who shared her joyful approach to yoga for all ages — from baby to 99 — inviting everyone to flow together in movement and community. Courtesy of UchiGames, children also enjoyed their own fun with a round of Wii Fit, adding play and energy to the day’s atmosphere. The event wrapped with heartfelt closing remarks, leaving all attendees inspired and connected.

We extend our deepest thanks to our event partners, whose generous support and collaboration helped make this event possible: Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC), BinxBrew, InfinityLink, Transformational Health Centers, @TheIPATHMethod, @UchiGames, and @LiveandFeelGratitude.

A special thanks to Jaunt Media Collective — Bobby L’Heureux, Owner + Director of Partnerships, and Kim Fuller, Owner + Publisher — for seeing the potential of this gathering and offering their invaluable support. And most importantly — thank you to all of our presenters, participants, and attendees for sharing your energy and spirit. We look forward to seeing you at future gatherings!

Denese Cavanaugh

Founder of the IPATH® Method

Denese Cavanaugh, E-RYT 800, CPT, YACEP, IAYT Yoga Therapist, and Educator, is the founder of The IPATH® Method (Integral Postural Alignment Techniques), a therapeutic yoga approach designed to relieve back pain and improve posture. With over two decades of experience, Denese blends her expertise as a healthcare professional, educator, and advanced yoga teacher to offer accessible, alignment-based practices. Based in Washington, D.C., she leads teacher trainings, workshops, and international programs, empowering students to build strength, awareness, and balance through yoga and mindful movement.

Kristiana Conti

Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (ERYT-500)

Kristiana Conti is a seasoned and compassionate yoga teacher dedicated to creating transformative, inclusive spaces that welcome all bodies and backgrounds. Her yoga journey began in 2008, and she has been guiding students with purpose and heart since 2016. As an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher at the 500-hour level (ERYT-500), Kristiana blends her deep training and lived experience into every class she leads.

With advanced certifications in Kids Yoga, Perinatal Yoga, and Nervous System regulation, Kristiana offers a holistic approach that integrates breath, mindful movement, and nervous system awareness. Her mission is to empower students to connect more deeply with themselves—cultivating strength, presence, and peace both on and off the mat. For Kristiana, yoga is not just a physical discipline, but a profound path of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth

Christina Flanagan Bistis

Sound bath facilitator and certified 200-hour Yoga Alliance instructor

Christina Flanagan Bistis is a devoted sound bath facilitator and certified 200-hour Yoga Alliance instructor, known for her intuitive and heart-led approach to holistic wellness. With a deep-seated passion for the healing arts, she blends sound therapy, breathwork, and aromatherapy into immersive, soul-nourishing experiences. Her mission is to share these sacred modalities with as many people as possible during her time on this earth—awakening deeper presence, peace, and connection in all who journey with her.

In her sound baths, Christina layers the celestial tones and earthly vibrations of Crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, chimes, rainsticks, a crystal harp, and more. Each session is intentionally crafted to guide listeners into conscious stillness offering the soul deeper awareness. Her custom-made organic aromatherapy blends enhance the experience—supporting emotional release and inner peace..

Specializing in transformative workshops, sacred circles, and now retreats, Christina holds space with grace and groundedness, inviting participants to feel safe to explore their inner worlds.

Dr. Derek Ferguson, CFMP, PSc.D, D.C.

Dr. Derek Ferguson is a leading voice in functional and lifestyle medicine. He owns Cornerstone Health Centers in New Jersey and Florida.

His practice focuses on using lifestyle as medicine to support longevity, energy, mental clarity and happiness to obtain health. Dr. Ferguson's research activities revolve around restorative methods and anti-aging therapies. He will illustrate the transformative impact of combining yoga with lifestyle medicine.

Jason Westlake

Jason Westlake is a seasoned entrepreneur and environmental advocate with a diverse background in hospitality, conservation, and executive leadership. He is the owner of Tierra de Sueños Lodge, a boutique eco-lodge in Costa Rica that emphasizes sustainability and community engagement. As President of Restore The Rainforest, he leads initiatives focused on reforestation and biodiversity preservation. Additionally, Jason serves as the Chief Operating Officer of CarbonHood, a company dedicated to carbon offsetting and climate solutions. His earlier ventures include founding Manu Leadership and Horizon Executives Academy, both centered on leadership development. Jason studied at Arizona State University and currently resides in Costa Rica, where he continues to integrate business innovation with environmental stewardship.

Lisa McCormick

Co-owner of Tranquility Yoga

As Lisa shares her new studio is a love story and a testament to positive manifestation. Before becoming its steward, Lisa practiced yoga within these very walls, finding solace and strength during her own healing journey. Nestled in the serene landscapes of Hunterdon County, NJ, the space held a sacred energy that inspired her deeply. When the opportunity arose to launch their own studio, it felt less like a business decision and more like coming home for both Lisa and Jim. Today, Tranquility Yoga stands as a haven for community connection, inner peace, and holistic healing—rooted in love, resilience, and the quiet power of transformation.

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