For years, I was a fan of the “Great White North,” chasing the crisp air of Alaska and Canada. I fancied myself a creature of the big chill, swaddled in layers and shunning the sun. My blood work showed vitamin D levels that were subterranean. I turned my body toward the South Lake Tahoe sun with gardening and getting outdoors more than less. Months later, the needle moved; my “Sunshine Vitamin” reflected a body in balance.

The question of whether the United States will adopt permanent daylight saving time (DST) remains up in the air. But health experts, argue that the transition disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm (the internal 24-hour clock that regulates sleep, metabolism, and immune function). So, what is a nature-lover’s take on the change year-round?

Soak up the Sun: The most natural way to “recharge” is through UVB radiation. When sunlight hits the skin, you get Vitamin D3. During pre-spring, experts recommend 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure on the face, arms, or back at least twice a week between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Get Vitamin-D Superfoods: Here are 5 foods for Vitamin D: Wild Salmon: Egg Yolks: Fortified OJ, Milk, and Whole Grain Cereal: These edibles contain plenty of Vitamin D aka the “Sunshine Vitamin”, helping you reach your Daily Value by utilizing the sunshine vitamin needs are met.

Savor “Golden Hour” Playtime: If we locked in more evening light, you’d have an extra hour of daylight after work to enjoy a sunset outing without rushing before dark.

Sync with the Peaks: The time change can be better for the planet and our bodies than the current “waffling” that confuses our internal clocks.

Enjoy Productivity: With a consistent schedule, your body can settle into a groove, helping you feel more energized.

While the debate continues to keep daylight saving time happens at Tahoe (it is happening in Arizona and Hawaii), the consensus among sleep scientists is that picking one and sticking to it is the healthiest path forward for everyone. (Adapted from The Healing Powers of Superfoods.)

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. The Healing Powers of Honey (is summer release), and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3rd ed. is in production. She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com