The Conversation: Why spending time outside is an essential part of coping with the pandemic 16 Mar, 2021 11:33 PM 5 minutes to read After a year spent in on and off lockdowns, it's important that Kiwis get the benefits of spending regular time outside. Photo / Getty Images Other Even a short walk, an ocean view or a picnic by a river can leave us feeling invigorated and restored. There is now a growing body of evidence establishing the link between such nature encounters and our mental and physical wellbeing. In my new book, I explore these nature benefits and challenge urban planners and decision makers to include more green spaces in our towns and cities.