The Princess of Wales says she was told in hospital her cancer recovery "would not be linear", and that nature taught her rest is as important as growth.
Speaking to British magazine Country Life, Catherine described the natural world as her "sanctuary" through illness.
"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 said.
"It shows us that periods of rest, reflection and renewal are equally as important as moments of growth."
The princess announced in January 2025 that she was in remission, after being diagnosed with cancer the previous year.
She said she had become passionate about treating illness and recovery with a whole-person approach, having experienced it first-hand.
"Yes, serious illness creates a lot of physical challenges, but there is also a deeper part to all of us," she said.
"Nature has allowed me to find a deeper connection to my mind, body and spirit. I think that's because nature offers something unique. It doesn't ask anything of us. It doesn't judge us or expect us to perform. It simply allows us to be.
"It really has been my sanctuary and a place I've instinctively wanted to go."
Catherine said science was now backing up what people had always known about the healing power of the outdoors.
"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."
The princess also raised concerns about the wellbeing of children growing up in a digital world.
"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 said.
"In this increasingly digital world, I believe it is more important than ever that children grow up with a strong sense of belonging, connection and emotional security. Nature is a natural environment where those skills can be built."
She said she tried to give her own children the freedom to explore outdoors, "rather than constantly telling them what to see or what to think".
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