Princess of Wales Champions Nature's Role in Mental Health
Kate's private visit to Dose Of Nature highlights clinically-led green prescriptions amidst broader discussions on youth development and digital detox.
Carla Rooney
The Princess of Wales made a private visit to Dose Of Nature, a west London charity.
The charity delivers clinically-led nature prescriptions, specifically designed to support mental health. During her visit, Kate spoke with Tom, a charity employee and volunteer nature guide who previously received support from Dose Of Nature.
The Princess met with Dr. Alison Greenwood and Dr. Georgina Gould during her engagement. She also discussed her personal desire to connect with nature during a mindfulness walk in the Peak District with Mind Over Mountains.
Kensington Palace released new portraits of the Princess in the countryside, taken by Josh Shinner. Kate stated, "By spending time in nature or being creative, we can nurture the very skills and emotions that cannot be digitised: awareness, empathy, humility, and above all, love."
By spending time in nature or being creative, we can nurture the very skills and emotions that cannot be digitised: awareness, empathy, humility, and above all, love.
Her engagement with nature-based therapies aligns with broader efforts. The Princess held a working session with Melinda French Gates in London on October 8 to discuss collaboration on projects focused on young people's development.
This followed an initial discussion in June at Windsor Castle. Discussions with French Gates centered on supporting young people's ability to thrive throughout life.
Kate reflected on the healing power of nature during her visit, stating, "Our journey has been very very different, but it’s so wonderful to hear how your nature connection and how it’s been so healing for you, and I felt the same." She emphasized the sense of purpose, meaning, and belonging that nature provides, suggesting it offers the longevity and sustainability needed to cope with an uncertain future.
Despite the acknowledged benefits of nature, new polling commissioned by the Centre reveals a significant gap. Parents believe nature helps their child's wellbeing, yet their children spend limited time outdoors.
This disconnect highlights a growing concern regarding children's engagement with the natural world. Prince William stated their children are currently banned from having phones, a clear stance on mitigating digital immersion.