In a magazine interview published by Country Life, the Princess of Wales reflects on her cancer journey, stating that her healing process in hospital was described as non-linear, mirroring patterns found in the natural world, 1News reported.
Princess Catherine announced she was in remission in January 2025 after receiving treatment for an unspecified cancer diagnosis in 2024, ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. Speaking to author Robert Macfarlane in a special edition guest-edited by the Prince of Wales, she detailed how the outdoors served as her sanctuary during treatment.
“I was told in hospital that my recovery would not be linear. There will be good days and bad days, that it will take time. This is the same in nature,” she told Country Life. She added that the natural environment taught her that rest and reflection are just as vital as growth.
“It simply allows us to be,” she said.
“It really has been my sanctuary and a place I’ve instinctively wanted to go.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, were photographed surrounded by their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Healing in the outdoors
The princess described a whole-person approach to recovery, noting that serious physical illness brings deeper mental and spiritual challenges. She explained that nature offers a unique space that judges no one and expects nothing in return.
“Science is now backing up what people have always known about the healing power of the outdoors,” she told 1News, pointing out how people naturally seek comfort in beaches, the countryside, and mountains.
“Whether it is the beach for healing and recovery, the countryside for peace and perspective or the mountains to find solitude, people have long sought comfort in the natural world,” she said.
“Incorporating nature into someone’s recovery pathway is vital.”
During the year, Princess Catherine completed the National Three Peaks Challenge to support the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, ABC News reported. The same magazine edition also featured a kingfisher artwork drawn by 13-year-old Prince George earlier in the spring.
Digital anxiety in children
Beyond her personal recovery, the princess raised concerns regarding the mental wellbeing of younger generations growing up surrounded by technology.
“What worries me is the growing anxiety among children and young people. It’s a generation that’s more online and connected to tech than ever before,” she told 1News. She argued that outdoor spaces help build essential skills like emotional security, resilience, and belonging.
She said that she tries to give her own children freedom rather than constant direction.
“It is something I remind myself to do with my own children; to give them freedom to explore, rather than constantly telling them what to see or what to think,” she said.
The princess emphasized that recovery involves more than just physical healing.
“It’s spending quality time with each other, taking time to pay attention to the world around us, noticing ourselves and reconnecting to the things that matter to us,” she said.
She also said that perseverance is essential.
“There will be good days and bad days, that it will take time,” she said.
“Nature teaches us perspective …”
“Nature is a natural environment where those skills can be built,” she added regarding the development of children.
Common questions about the interview
Where was the interview published?
The interview appeared in the British magazine Country Life, in a special edition guest-edited by the Prince of Wales.
When did Princess Catherine announce her remission?
The princess announced she was in remission in January 2025, following cancer treatment throughout the previous year.
Who conducted the interview with the princess?
Author Robert Macfarlane interviewed the Princess of Wales for the magazine feature.
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