THE link between our enjoyment of the natural world and good health is not a novel concept. The founder of America’s national parks, Scotsman John Muir, famously said: “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.” Today, however, as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, the marvel that regular contact with nature is vital for our physical, mental and social health is appreciated more than ever. In fact, research by NatureScot during the first half of 2020 found 70% of people feel spending time outdoors in nature helped them de-stress, relax and unwind, with 56% agreeing it also improved their physical health.