A relaxing evening of Yoga and Meditation in the Rector’s Garden

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A group of Lincoln College students practising yoga in the Rector’s Garden, framed by the historic architecture of Lincoln College in the background. The students are in warrior pose, stretching on yoga mats in the afternoon light.

Micon leading a yoga session in the Rector’s Garden at Lincoln College, seated cross-legged in front of a group of students lying on mats in a gentle supine stretch. The garden is in full bloom behind them, with pink roses and lush greenery framing the tranquil scene.

Lincoln College students in downward dog pose during an outdoor yoga session in the Rector’s Garden. Yoga mats are spaced across the lawn, with the College’s classical stone façade and arched windows providing a sunlit backdrop.

Lincoln College students seated cross-legged on yoga mats in the Rector’s Garden, hands in prayer position during a moment of quiet reflection. A backdrop of roses, greenery, and the Oxford Wine Company building beyond the College walls adds a serene and distinctly Oxford touch.

Micon guiding a Lincoln College student through a gentle spinal twist during an outdoor yoga session in the Rector’s Garden. Other students lie on mats around the lawn, surrounded by summer greenery and relaxed atmosphere.

A Lincoln College student stands in a balancing pose during a yoga session in the Rector’s Garden, with the iconic spire of Lincoln College rising behind her. Other students are visible in the background, mid-stretch, in the warm glow of a sunny afternoon.

Lincoln College students taking part in a yoga session in the Rector’s Garden, with participants in a seated forward fold pose using bolsters for support. The warm stone walls and arched door of the College provide a peaceful backdrop in the afternoon shade.

As we celebrate International Day of Yoga today, we reflect on a recent and memorable yoga and meditation session held in the Rector’s Garden for MCR and JCR members. Led by Micon Garvilles (2019) - an experienced, certified yoga and meditation teacher, Lincoln DPhil student, and founder of the Yoga and Meditation Community - the evening provided a much-needed moment of stillness and relaxation during a busy exam week. While weekly sessions are held throughout the term, this evening was particularly special: it marked the first time yoga and meditation were practised in the Rector’s garden.

International Day or Yoga, which is observed annually on 21 June, the summer solstice, the longest day of the year and a global celebration of unity, balance and well-being. The solstice symbolises a fresh beginning and inner light, reflecting the peaceful energy cultivated through a yoga practice.

With over 25 participants signed up, the session offered a much-needed pause during a busy week filled with exams and deadlines. Many students expressed how helpful and calming the experience was, especially amidst the high levels of stress. The mats and blocks, generously provided by the Annual Fund, were appreciated and made the session more accessible.

The session concluded with a gentle meditation, accompanied by the sounds of birds, rustling trees, and the evening breeze. Following the session, students gathered to chat while enjoying cakes, crisps, and fruit provided for the occasion. We are grateful to the college gardeners and staff for maintaining such a beautiful space, and to the Rector for supporting our use of it for well-being activities. It was a peaceful evening of reflection, community, and much-needed relaxation.

(Thank you to Micon Garvilles for writing this article.)

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A relaxing evening of Yoga and Meditation in the Rector’s Garden