Princess Catherine Releases Birthday Video on Nature and Healing
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, released a personal video on social media to mark her 44th birthday. The video is the final part of a four-part series, which explores the healing power of nature and its importance to her, particularly during her recovery from cancer treatment. In the video, Catherine states, "To be at one with nature, a quiet teacher and a soft voice that guides... Helping us to heal." She also noted that winter offers stillness, patience, and quiet consideration.
Video Content and Themes
The video series began in spring, featuring Catherine's reflections on the natural world's positive impact alongside images of changing seasons. The latest video displays winter scenes from across the UK, including woodlands, mountains, and a murmuration of starlings. Catherine expressed profound gratitude, stating, "I find myself reflecting on how deeply grateful I am." The footage was filmed in various locations, including Berkshire, Cumbria, Gloucestershire, East Sussex, and the Cotswolds.
Following her cancer recovery, the Princess has emphasized the value of kindness, calm, and moderated use of social media and mobile phones. She has also discussed how nature improves mental and physical wellbeing, describing her connection with nature in spiritual terms. Catherine shared that the video project was a "deeply personal, creative reflection on how nature has helped me heal" and also about the "power of nature and creativity in collective healing."
Hospital Visit
Separately, Catherine, accompanied by Prince William, visited Charing Cross Hospital, expressing support for NHS staff efforts. During a conversation with volunteers from Imperial Health Charity, Catherine highlighted the often "unrecognised" contributions of volunteers, noting that their "soft skills, the empathy and compassion, the kindness, goes beyond any job description." She added that these qualities significantly benefit patients.