Once upon a time, the news was simply a way to stay informed—facts presented without flair or agenda, allowing you to form your own opinions about what was happening in the world. But things have changed. News, in its purest form, was always about delivering current affairs that had the potential to impact long-term perceptions. At its worst, it was a transitory attempt at manipulation using facts, but it was still grounded in truth. That was news.

Then came the transformation—news became media.

What was once an informative, albeit imperfect, means of communication morphed into a weapon of influence. Today, media is not about simply reporting facts; it’s about shaping narratives. It’s no longer about what’s happening in the world, but about how people want you to think about what’s happening. The goal is no longer to inform, but to control—to subtly manipulate opinions, frame ideologies, and sway public sentiment. This shift is far more dangerous because media uses opinions, not facts, as its tool. It replaces principles and practices with propaganda.

In the context of wellness and health, we can see this transition clearly. At one point, health advice was given based on traditional practises, principles, and a deep understanding of the body and mind. Today, however, it’s far more about who’s endorsing what product or diet, what "influencers" are promoting on social media, and which wellness trends are getting the most airtime. Even scientific research today is corrupted in many ways and the word “science”, holier than thou at one time, is no longer fully trusted.

Health advice used to come from well-meaning family doctors, perfectionist researchers doing impeccable research, and trained with time experts (like my grandmother). Today, it often comes from celebrities, influencers, and wellness marketers whose main interest lies in selling you a product or idea—whether it’s scientifically sound or not. Media no longer cares about providing a comprehensive view of health; instead, it capitalizes on trends, pushing quick fixes, detox fads, and “miracle cures” that create more confusion than clarity.

In wellness, just like in the broader world, media is more about manipulation than genuine care for what’s truly best for you. Instead of a balanced, sustainable approach to health, we get sensationalized headlines: “Lose 10 pounds in 10 days!” or “The latest miracle diet everyone’s talking about!” These messages aren’t rooted in practice or principle—they’re rooted in profit and persuasion.

The Danger of Media in Wellness

The shift from news to media is not just an issue of content; it’s an issue of purpose. News served to inform, challenge, and engage. Media, on the other hand, seeks to manipulate, control, and profit. In the wellness space, this is even more dangerous because health is personal. It’s tied to our bodies, our mental well-being, and our future. When the media manipulates what we believe is good for us, we’re not just misinformed—we’re risking our lives.

Take, for example, the rise of wellness fads, the over-hyped detoxes, or the instant weight loss solutions that we see promoted on social media. These aren’t based on solid principles or long-term practices—they’re based on opinions, sensational headlines, and attractive promises that often have little to no scientific backing. Yet they dominate the wellness narrative. And because of the influence of media, many people believe them, chasing after the next quick fix instead of developing a sustainable, holistic approach to health.

News is for Information, Media is for Manipulation

The difference between news and media is crucial. News is about facts, presented as unbiased truths that people can use to form their own opinions. Media, on the other hand, shapes the way people think, guiding them toward a certain outcome or belief system, even if it’s not in their best interest. And with wellness, this manipulation can have dangerous consequences.

So, what does this mean for us, as individuals seeking better health?

• Critical thinking is essential. We need to differentiate between wellness media and wellness information. Just because a product or idea is trending doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

• Principles over opinions. Real wellness is based on solid principles: nutrition, exercise, mental health, and rest. Anything that promises to bypass these principles is most likely media manipulation.

• Practice, not trends. Focus on what works for your body and mind, not what the media is telling you works for everyone. Wellness is a long-term journey, not a viral trend.

The Role of Authentic Wellness Communities

This is where wellness communities—like the one I lead—can play a vital role. We are not about selling you the next quick fix or capitalizing on the latest media trend. We focus on empowering people to take control of their health with principles, consistency, and sustainable practices. True wellness isn’t about the next viral diet or fitness craze—it’s about lifelong habits, education, and community support.

So, next time you see a sensational wellness claim in the media, ask yourself: Is this news, or is this media? Is it informing you, or is it manipulating you? And most importantly, is it true to the principles of long-term health?