The Princess of Wales, Kate, recently made a discreet visit to Dose of Nature, a mental health charity in Kew, south-west London, focusing on improving well-being through clinical psychology and nature connection. During her visit last month, she observed an 'Art in Nature' session and spoke with participants about their experiences.
Kate, 44, shared her personal connection to nature, stating that it has aided her through difficult times. She spoke with Tom, a former participant and now a volunteer Nature Guide, who described the positive impact of outdoor engagement on his self-confidence and resilience. "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," Kate told Tom. She acknowledged the charity's role in providing a sense of purpose, meaning, and belonging through nature.
Dose of Nature, founded in 2018, collaborates with the NHS and GP referrals to support individuals facing various mental health challenges. Its 'Nature Prescription' program offers guidance from Nature Guides and nature immersions for long-term support. Last year, the charity issued 547 Nature Prescriptions across the Richmond and Guildford areas.
The Princess, dressed in a £379 jacket from Alexa Chung's Barbour collection, has frequently spoken about the significance of the natural world in her life, including her own recovery from cancer treatment. In a previous message, she emphasized that "spending quality time outdoors has never been more important," urging parents to encourage children to engage with nature.
She has also highlighted nature's capacity to foster healing and growth, noting its boundless potential in a video released during Mental Health Awareness Week. "The natural world's capacity to inspire us, to nurture us and help us heal and grow is boundless and has been understood for generations," she said. Kate has long championed mental health causes, emphasizing how nature has aided her healing process after cancer treatment.