Matthew McConaughey and his wife, Camila Alves, have embraced a tranquil life since moving from California to Texas. They find happiness in the slower pace of life there.
In a conversation with Southern Living, McConaughey revealed how time seems to slow down in Texas. He credits this to local rituals, distances, hospitality, and a general sense of community.
"Time slowed down," McConaughey said to the outlet. "The clock was right, the body clock. And part of that is ritual; part of that is just the distance between places and the way people move. But it’s also the hospitality, the courtesy, the common sense, the lack of drama."
Alves feels that Texas's atmosphere has been beneficial. She agrees with McConaughey's sentiments about the state's unique vibe.
The couple, who are also business partners in Pantalones Tequila, moved to Austin in 2014 with their three children. They've been married since 2012.
Despite initially enjoying their life in Malibu, California, where they were raising their children, a family crisis led them to Austin. This visit sparked the idea of moving.
"We were living a happy life in Malibu," Alves explained. "We had a beautiful house that we’d built together and put a lot of love and care into. We were raising our kids there. I was growing everything in the yard. I had bees making honey."
Alves shared a moment when she sensed McConaughey's desire to move to Texas. His affirmative response to her question confirmed his wish.
They decided to relocate following a simple yet meaningful conversation at a traffic light. Despite the challenge, Alves found similarities between Texas and her native Brazil, easing her adjustment.
Alves appreciates the rituals and community activities in Texas, such as attending church and participating in sports. These have become important aspects of their family life.
McConaughey, originally from Texas, found the transition easier. He believes in the importance of connecting with one's roots and suggests that everyone should spend time in their birthplace to reflect on their life and creativity.
"We grew up saying ‘Yes, ma’am’ and ‘No, sir’ or – as I should say – ‘Yes, ma’am’ and ‘Yes, sir,’" Alves explained. "It takes me right back to how I was raised."
