Princess Kate working through ‘anxiety’ and ‘panic’ during recovery

Princess Kate is embarking on a journey of recovery following her recent abdominal surgery, with a focus on overcoming any negative emotions that may surface during this period. In a conversation with Hello! Magazine, psychotherapist Lauren Baird shared insights into how staying physically active can significantly aid the Princess of Wales in navigating the post-operative phase more smoothly.

Baird emphasized the commonality of experiencing a downturn in mood after spending a considerable amount of time in a hospital setting. The mental health expert pointed out that engaging in physical activity is crucial for the restoration of essential feel-good hormones, such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which play a vital role in maintaining emotional well-being.

“High-intensity exercises, such as running release chemicals called endorphins, which is why many runners experience ‘runner’s high,'” Baird told the outlet. She continued: “Plus physical exercise can support you work through unpleasant emotions like anxiety and panic; give you a much-needed boost of confidence, as you may feel a sense of accomplishment after that 5k run and support connection with others, whether that’s running with a friend or going to a class.”

The psychotherapist elaborated on the intrinsic connection between physical health and mental health, highlighting that an illness, operation, or injury can naturally lead to a decrease in mood due to the inability to participate in regular fitness routines. This lack of activity can result in reduced levels of the key hormones that contribute to feelings of happiness and satisfaction.

Baird’s advice underscores the importance of incorporating movement and exercise into the recovery process, not only to aid physical healing but also to boost mental health. By finding alternative ways to stay active, even in the face of physical limitations, individuals recovering from surgery can facilitate a more holistic healing process that encompasses both the body and the mind.

Lauren also claimed: “In these moments it’s important to let your body rest and while you do that you might access other activities that are nourishing to your soul. This might be reading that book you’ve not had the time to get to, or picking up artistic endeavors such as drawing, writing, painting, playing music.”

This approach to recovery aligns with a broader understanding of health that recognizes the interdependence of physical and mental well-being. By addressing the psychological aspects of recuperation, Princess Kate can enhance her resilience and navigate the challenges of the recovery period with greater ease and positivity.

The insights shared by Baird offer a valuable perspective on the recovery process, suggesting that the path to healing is not solely about physical restoration but also involves nurturing the mind and ensuring a balanced influx of hormones that support emotional health. This holistic approach to recovery can be particularly beneficial for individuals facing the dual challenge of physical recuperation and the management of negative emotions that may arise during this transformative period.