Throughout the history of mankind the term "good health" has carried a different meaning depending on the time and culture that one is studying. For example, because of the advances in medicine and technology, the life span of an individual has almost doubled since the days of the dark ages. But, even in today's society the term "good health" does not carry a blanket definition for all in th is day and age. One nation's healthcare system may be a major priority while another's may be given less concern. I believe that in our own country "good health" has been warped and distorted in its meaning.
             As a person sits and relaxes in front of the television, a bombardment of commercial and info-mercials attack the viewer, telling him that the present state of his body weight is unacceptable. Images of hard bodied men and women flash on the screen every few second in an attempt to coax the viewer into purchasing a diet plan or exercise regime in order to achieve the "perfect" body. "The idea that peace, joy, and well-being come from outside ourselves is reinforced in so many different ways in our culture" (Ornish 144). But, can a good healthier body be attained from a wonder drug being hawked at two in the morning? I believe not. Good health begins in the mind. Once a person can look at his body with a complacent mind, then he can analyze which direction to take to improve his health, that is, if improvement is really necessary. Only after one finds peace with the decision made can that person begin the journey to better physical health. And more likely than not, a change in lifestyle will have more effect than any pill or weight set.
             Another way this nation has been seduced into a warped view of good health would be the paper thin super models that pop out in almost every magazine or television ad we see. I believe this
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