A SPIRITUAL REBIRTH

The Princess of Wales opens up about how finding sanctuary in the natural world has given her a fresh perspective on life

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The healing power of nature has helped sustain the Princess of Wales through her most challenging times. And as she looks to the future with a new perspective on life, her love of the outdoors has unlocked her spiritual side, too.

Last week, Kate, 43, revealed how getting out in nature has brought her a sense of peace and helped her find balance in her life as she recovers from cancer.

"I find it a very spiritual and very intense emotional reconnection, I suppose, [being in] these environments," she said during a visit to the Lake District.

"Not everyone has that same relationship, perhaps, with nature. But it is so meaningful for me as a place to balance and find a sense of peace and reconnection in what is otherwise a very busy world."

MAJOR CHANGE

Kate is known for her grounded and practical nature, but royal insiders say that last year's health crisis has had a transformative effect.

Royal biographer Robert Jobson, author of Catherine: The Princess of Wales, tells HELLO!: "Throughout her illness and recovery, the Princess has certainly reconnected with nature in the same way as the King has, but she has also had a bit of a religious, spiritual reawakening – as has Prince William, I understand.