When we think about holidays, our minds often drift to distant shores, bustling cities, or exotic landscapes. But what if the true essence of a memorable vacation lies not in far-off places but in the joy of discovering the beauty around us?
In the summer of 2022, we moved to Bavaria, to the gorgeous city of Munich, which we now call home. Although we have lived here for a couple of years, various bookings abroad and busy planning ahead had kept us from truly experiencing a holiday in our new home. So, this year, my partner and I decided to stay home and finally explore the beauty of Bavaria.
By embracing intentional, mindful, and slow living, I discovered how much beauty and contentment could be found in our local surroundings. Let me take you through this journey and explore how we can find joy in the ordinary moments of life.
The Beauty of Staying Close to Home
My recent holiday was a perfect example of how slow living could transform everyday experiences. By staying within the comforting embrace of Munich and its nearby locales, I fully immersed myself in the true spirit of mindful living. Instead of rushing through an itinerary packed with far-flung destinations, I focused on finding joy in the ordinary and appreciating the simple pleasures of home.
One of the most liberating choices I made was switching off from social media. In a world saturated with constant updates and notifications, disconnecting from the digital noise allowed me to fully immerse myself in the present moment. Without distractions, I savored the ordinary joys of my surroundings. Whether it was a tranquil afternoon at a local lake or a cozy evening with family or friends, each experience was enriched by a mindful approach.
Lakeside Adventures: Find Joy in the Water
Bavaria’s lakes became my sanctuaries, each offering a unique charm that invited me to slow down and connect with nature.
Walchensee
Walchensee stood out as the best spot for swimming, paddling, and sunbathing. The crystal-clear waters were perfect for a refreshing dip, and paddling across its serene surface allowed me to feel at one with nature. Sunbathing on its shores or the paddle board, with the gentle breeze and stunning mountain backdrop, brought a sense of peace that was hard to find elsewhere. Here, the simplicity of these activities became a source of deep joy.
Eibsee
Eibsee, nestled at the foot of the Zugspitze, was ideal for leisurely walks and paddling. The trail circling the lake, surrounded by lush forests, offered breathtaking views at every turn. Paddling from one little island to another and watching the shimmering reflections on the water created a meditative experience, allowing me to appreciate the quiet beauty of this place.
Chiemsee
Chiemsee, known as the “Bavarian Sea,” offered the perfect mix of relaxation and scenic beauty. I spent my time sunbathing on the lakeshore, taking refreshing swims in the clear waters, and unwinding at a nearby beach bar with Hawaiian vibes. The bar’s tropical ambiance, combined with the gentle waves and warm sun, created an idyllic setting that truly embodied the joy of summer.
Plansee
Plansee, just across the Austrian border, was another gem where I found joy in simple pleasures. I spent my time swimming in its emerald-green waters and walking along the picturesque trails that surrounded the lake. The peaceful hikes offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the refreshing swims provided a perfect way to cool off. This combination of activity and relaxation made Plansee a memorable part of my staycation.
Tegernsee
Tegernsee was my go-to for entertainment and hikes. The lake’s vibrant promenade buzzed with life, offering cafes, shops, and occasional live performances that made for a lively afternoon. But Tegernsee also catered to those seeking a more active experience. The hiking trails leading into the surrounding hills are stunning! They provided stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment that only a good hike could bring.
Each of these lakes offered its own form of solace and enjoyment, reminding me that extraordinary joy could be found in the ordinary rhythms of life.
River Eisbach: A Flowing Sanctuary
On days when I preferred to stay closer to home, the Eisbach River in Munich became my retreat. This iconic river, with its playful currents and picturesque surroundings, offered a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As I watched the water flow effortlessly, I was reminded of the importance of going with the flow and finding joy in the simple moments.
The Eisbach was also a perfect setting for pulling out my journal and working on reflection, future goals, and vision. Sitting by the riverbank, I immersed myself in the subtle details—the play of light on the water, the rustling leaves, and the occasional splash of a passing swimmer. These simple observations highlighted how mindful living could reveal the extraordinary beauty hidden in the ordinary.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Bavarian Towns and Hikes
Exploring the charming towns of Bavaria felt like stepping into a fairytale. Each town had its own unique character, with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and inviting cafes. Strolling through these picturesque towns, I discovered how intentional living made even the simplest activities feel special. The slower pace allowed me to truly appreciate the history, architecture, and local flavors that made each town distinct.
My hikes around these little towns and lakes and in the Alps were equally rewarding. Trails surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views provided a perfect backdrop for mindful exploration. Hiking allowed me to connect with nature, appreciate the changing seasons, and find joy in the ordinary act of putting one foot in front of the other. The physical exertion was balanced by the mental relaxation that came from being fully present in the moment.
I’ve captured these beautiful, simple, yet extraordinary moments in my latest video, “Find Joy in The Ordinary: Slow Living in Munich”. Check it out! I hope it will inspire you to find your own magic right where you are.
Cherishing Time with Family and Friends: Quality over Quantity
Spending time with family and friends during my staycation added another layer of joy to my experience. Whether catching up over coffee or sunbathing at the river, the emphasis was on quality time rather than quantity. By focusing on meaningful interactions, I deepened my connections and appreciated the joy of shared experiences.
This intentional approach to socializing reminded me that the most fulfilling moments are often found in the company of loved ones. The laughter, conversation, and shared memories became the highlights of my holiday, reinforcing the idea that joy can be found in ordinary moments spent together.
Concerts: The Joy of Music and Community
Munich is known for hosting many great artists in Olympia Park during summer. And even if you don’t have tickets for all of the events, OlympiaBerg Hill provides a perfect opportunity to listen to your favorite artists and feel like a part of the show. During our holidays, we went to listen to a few of them, but of course, the highlight was Coldplay. There is something magical about the energy of live music—the way it brings people together and sparks joy in the crowd.
Going to Festivals: Celebrating Local Traditions
From the lively Tollwood Festival to Sommerfestival in Olympia Park, each event offered a unique celebration of Bavarian culture. These festivals allowed me to immerse myself in local traditions, savor delicious regional foods, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with the crowd. Festivals embodied slow living, offering moments of connection, celebration, and appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage – find joy in the ordinary.
Find Joy in the Ordinary: A Mindful Approach to Life
My holiday in Bavaria was a testament to the beauty of slow living and the joy that could be found in the ordinary. By embracing mindful living, intentional living, and a slower pace, I discovered that the essence of a fulfilling life lay in appreciating the present moment.
To find joy in the ordinary wasn’t about the specific activities I engaged in. It was about cultivating a mindset that valued simplicity and presence. Whether exploring local lakes, hiking through scenic landscapes, or spending time with loved ones, the key was approaching each experience with intention and mindfulness.
Embracing a Minimalist Lifestyle
For those looking to incorporate more intentional living into their daily lives, adopting a minimalist lifestyle can be a powerful tool. By decluttering our physical and mental spaces, we create room for more meaningful experiences and deeper connections. If this resonates with you, consider taking the 30-Step Minimalism Challenge, available for free download. This challenge offers practical steps to simplify our lives and find joy in the essentials.
As we continue our journey toward a more mindful and intentional lifestyle, let’s remember that the extraordinary often resides in the ordinary. By slowing down and appreciating what we have, we can uncover a world of joy and fulfillment in our everyday lives.
