This Sunday, March 30, the UK celebrates Mothering Sunday—the British version of Mother’s Day. As always, the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, marked the day. But this year, instead of a family photo, she shared something different: a heartfelt message about the healing power of nature.
Middleton took to social media to reflect on the past year, highlighting the comfort she’s found in the outdoors. "Over the past year, nature has been our sanctuary," she wrote.
"This Mother’s Day, let us celebrate Mother Nature and recognize how our bond with the natural world can help not only nurture our inner selves but remind us too of the role we play within the rich tapestry of life. C"
© Will Warr
© Will WarrSince becoming a mom in 2013, Kate has shared many sweet moments on Mother’s Day—from family photos to simple glimpses into life with her kids. In 2021, she posted pictures of her children baking her a cake, honoring her mother, Carole Middleton, and Princess Diana as well.
But last year, a heavily edited photo with her three kids caused backlash. Some outlets even pulled the image. Kate later apologized publicly, saying, "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day."
© The Prince and Princess of WalesThis time, she’s taken a new direction—sharing a peaceful video instead of a photo. Posted on the official Prince and Princess of Wales accounts, the clip shows sweeping UK landscapes: forests, beaches, fields, and ocean views. There’s a shot of Kate resting her hands on a tree and one of Prince William walking their dogs—moments captured last summer by filmmaker Will Warr.
The message behind it is clear: nature has been a refuge for Kate. And this quiet celebration underscores a growing theme in her public work—mental health, mindfulness, and connection with the world around us.
Nature, healing, and personal recovery
This tribute also reflects a more personal story. After stepping back from royal duties in 2024 to undergo cancer treatment, Kate often turned to nature for comfort. In June, she shared an outdoor portrait with an update on her chemotherapy: “There are good days and bad days… I’m learning to be patient. Taking each day as it comes.”
© princeandprincessofwalesShe’s spoken several times since about how being outside has helped her heal. In July, she supported the Natural History Museum’s Urban Nature Project, sharing, “Nature supports our development and well-being… bringing us joy and helping us stay physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy.”
© princeandprincessofwalesIn September, after finishing chemotherapy, she released another video—again outdoors, this time walking and picnicking with her family in Norfolk. Then on World Cancer Day, she posted a forest photo taken by her son Louis, captioned with a quiet reminder: “Don’t forget to care for all that lies beyond illness.”
Even on Valentine’s Day, she shared a special low key moment with William in the countryside.
© princeandprincessofwalesThat might be why Kate chose to skip the usual family photos and instead shared a personal tribute to Mother Nature. It’s a simple way to show just how much nature has helped her through some of the most important and challenging times in her life—both physically and emotionally.
