PRINCESS OF WALES COMES TO PEAK DISTRICT TO JOIN MENTAL WELLBEING WALK

Lizzy (left) with The Princess, Ian Boyd CEO of Mind Over Mountains and Di West (right).

On Tuesday, 27 January, The Princess of Wales joined nature-based mental health charity, Mind Over Mountains, for a supported wellbeing walk on Baslow Edge. As a committed advocate for mental wellbeing, the Princess of Wales was undaunted by the wind and rain as she walked and chatted with volunteers and past participants from the charity who shared personal stories of how therapeutic outdoor experiences with the charity have helped them overcome mental health challenges.

Starting from Curbar Gap, The Princess joined a group of walkers for a brief mindfulness in nature moment before setting off for a hill walk, taking in local nature and views along the way. Leading the walk from Mind Over Mountains was Walk Team Leader, Lizzy Mills from Bradwell. Lizzy is a qualified Mountain Leader who has led countless wellbeing walks and fundraising challenges with the charity, as well as expeditions worldwide.

Talking about her walk with The Princess of Wales, Lizzy said, “Guiding the Princess on a walk in the Peak District was a real privilege and wonderful opportunity to highlight the work of Mind Over Mountains. Walking alongside her on Baslow Edge was a great reminder of how time in nature and shared experiences can support mental wellbeing.”

The day included short, guided mindfulness moments woven into the walk, helping the group to slow down, settle their thoughts, and connect with the landscape around them. Using the surrounding nature, hills and views, participants were gently supported to reflect, gain perspective, and think about positive steps ahead.

Before The Princess departed, CEO of Mind Over Mountains Ian Boyd, said: “For the Princess of Wales to openly champion mental health and emotional support through nature is hugely powerful, not only for Mind Over Mountains, but for the growing green social prescribing movement. Our evidence-led approach brings the transformative power of the outdoors – our ‘natural health service’ into everyday mental health provision, complementing NHS services and other partners across the Peak District with cost effective, community-based, preventative support.”

Further information: https://mindovermountains.org.uk/