I was going through a difficult phase in my life, characterised by many lows. He urgently needed some rest and was delighted when he received an unusual offer: to spend a few days on an island. I was totally thrilled when I decided to embark on a real adventure and explore a remote, lonely island in Finland. I was looking for a bit of solitude and a break from the stresses of everyday life. I wanted a place where there were no modern conveniences. Järviö Island is a real Baltic Sea gem that is still a little hidden.
The island in the Finnish archipelago is a quiet paradise hidden in the Baltic Sea. With its rocky shores, lush forests and crystal-clear water, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world. There is no electricity, no internet and no hustle and bustle. Visitors can reconnect with nature and be inspired by its unspoilt beauty. When the sun goes down, the island's starry sky is a real highlight and makes it a perfect destination for those seeking simplicity and a real connection with nature.
I left the hustle and bustle of the city behind and set out on a long journey. First by plane, then by car and finally by boat. The boat driver was a ‘local’ who knows the waters and the island particularly well. As the boat glided through the calm waves, the towering pines and rocky shores of Järviö emerged. The landscape was truly impressive, and I thought to myself that he had turned off at exactly the right place.
When I set foot on the island, I was immediately struck by its unspoilt beauty. There were no signs of civilisation – no real buildings, no roads, no electricity pylons. There is only nature in its purest form here. The chirping of birds, the gentle rustling of leaves and the soothing lapping of waves on the coast welcomed me. I hadn't thought about the island before. So I was all the more surprised when I realised that it was basically a rocky landscape that had been transformed over time by plants and animals into a beautiful island.
My accommodation was a simple wooden hut surrounded by a large forest. The hut was equipped with everything I needed: a wood-burning stove for cooking, candles for light and a comfortable bed. The owner of the island had left some supplies for him, including dried food, canned food and fresh water in containers. There was a well in the forest that provided clear and precious drinking water. This also ensured that I would have my daily coffee.
I was really lucky with the weather. The sky was mostly bright blue and clouds only rarely gathered. The wind was pleasant and always came from the southwest, as I was accustomed to from my home. Over the course of the days, I got used to a calm rhythm. I woke up with the rising sun and breathed in the fresh, clean air. Without the distractions of the internet, I was finally able to immerse myself in the books I had brought with me, rediscovering the joy of reading. I explored the island, discovered hidden coves, walked along rocky cliffs and would probably have swum in the clear, cold waters of the Baltic Sea if the water hadn't been too cold for me.
At night, without artificial light, the sky offered a truly fascinating spectacle of stars. I had never seen such a beautiful night sky. Constellations and shooting stars accompanied it in the darkness. For hours I lay there, lost in thought, feeling deeply connected to the universe.
After a few days, I felt really good and content. I realised that without all the modern distractions, I could really be in the here and now. I discovered the joy of simple things like the warmth of the sun on my skin, the sound of the waves lapping on the shore, and the chirping of birds in the trees.
Without electricity and the internet, I was finally able to get in touch with myself on a deeper level. I meditated a lot and thought about my life to gain more clarity and insight. I started writing a diary (at least I tried) to record my thoughts and experiences. I hope to remember this transformative journey for many years to come. I thought to myself that I had already experienced a lot in my life and could handle any situation. I was sure that I would always find a solution. But this time it was too much for me. I just didn't have the strength anymore. In no time at all, I had simply too many problems piled up inside me. The island forced him to take a break, to think and to sort out his problems and worries.
When I had to leave the island, I was torn. I loved being able to switch off and enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. But I also knew that nothing had changed for me and that the same worries would await me when I returned. However, the tranquillity of the island had made a lasting impression on me. I therefore decided to take the lessons learned with me into the modern world.
When I returned to civilisation, I felt like a new person and was more open to the important things in life. My experience on the desert island showed me how important it is to slow down to connect and how wonderful it is to accept the gifts of nature. But I also realised that my next travels would take me to completely different worlds and that I can only solve my problems in my own world.