Atlanta Magazine Sponsored The Importance of Nature in the Time of Coronavirus Tired of being cooped up indoors? REI helps Atlantans get back outside and get healthy—both physically and mentally. 46 The great outdoors. There’s a reason they call it that. Experts agree that time spent alfresco—soaking up the sun, breathing in the fresh air, and communing with nature—is beneficial for both your physical and mental health. It can lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety, boost your immune system, contribute to your heart health, augment brain development, and lift your spirits. And ...