The Princess of Wales celebrated her 44th birthday today with the release of a heartfelt video, sharing how nature has been a source of solace during her cancer journey. In a poignant message, she expressed her gratitude for life. Kensington Palace unveiled the final segment of the year-long ‘Mother Nature’ video series, titled ‘Winter,’ featuring Catherine’s voiceover alongside scenes of her enjoying a serene morning walk in Berkshire, near her Windsor residence. According to an aide, this project represents a significant personal endeavor for The Princess, highlighting humanity’s enduring bond with nature and its potential to inspire, heal, and nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits.

In the voiceover for this concluding chapter, the Princess candidly shares her personal experiences over the past two years, discussing her ‘fears,’ ‘tears,’ and the healing process that made her feel ‘deeply grateful to be alive.’ She reflects, “Even in the coldest, darkest season, winter offers us stillness, patience, and quiet reflection. It’s a time when the stream slows, allowing us to see our own reflection and explore the deepest parts of ourselves. Amidst the gentle whispers of life, I find gratitude. The rivers within us flow freely, washing away fears and bringing peace. We learn to embrace our tears and understand the essence of being alive. To be at one with nature; a quiet teacher and a gentle guide in memory, aiding our healing process.”

The Princess also added a personal note, stating: “The Mother Nature series has been a deeply personal and creative reflection on how nature has aided my healing. It also tells a tale of nature and creativity’s power in collective healing. We have much to learn from Mother Nature as we strive to create a happier, healthier world. C.” Earlier this year, the Princess underwent significant abdominal surgery, which led to the discovery of cancer and necessitated a challenging course of preventive chemotherapy. She shared this news with the public through a video message in March.

In September the same year she also revealed the news that she had completed treatment but warned that her recovery and return to royal duties would be slow but steady. In January last year she gave the good news that she was finally in remission but again asked for public understanding about her return to public life. Kensington Palace said her ‘Mother Nature’ series, which has seen a new video realised on social media each quarter to mark the passing of the seasons, has been a ‘reflection of the beauty and complexity of the human experience. It is a tribute to the lessons we can learn from nature, helping us to foster our own growth, strengthen our bonds with the world around us and each other.’

The Spring episode was the first launched at the start of last year’s Mental Health Awareness Week. The philosophy of this film, as with the rest of the series, they said, is rooted in the need to reconnect humanity, something Catherine explored in a recent essay on the importance of family life and childhood with Professor Waldinger. They added: ‘As we confront the challenges of an increasingly complex and digital world, the importance of interconnectedness – the connection we have with ourselves, each other and nature – takes on even more significance.’

It is understood that moving forward, The Princess is ‘excited to explore’ what more can be done to harness the power of nature and creativity for human connection, healing and wellbeing for individuals, families, communities and society. ‘We look forward to sharing more on this soon,’ an aide said. ‘These themes will continue to be at the heart of The Princess’ work moving forwards.’ The new film was made and produced by Will Warr. As well as the princess’ walk in Berkshire, elements were captured in Cumbria, Gloucestershire, London, East Sussex and The Cotswolds.