The definition of health is ‘the state of being free from illness or injury’ (Definition of health, 2013). There are five main components of health including physical, mental, social, environmental and spiritual health. All of these five components have inter-relationships in one way or another and can both positively and negatively impact the well-being of a person. An example of this is the strong link between physical health, spiritual health and mental health. Being physically healthy and exercising does not only improve your mental health but also your social and spiritual health as well. Scientists have proven that poor physical health brings an increased risk of depression, as do the social and relationship problems that can be common among people. This essay will examine why all five components of health are important in maintaining well-being and be able to function and contribute to society. Physical health is when the body functions at its optimal level, is free of disease and functions as it is designed to. In order to have good physical health we need to look after our bodies so they can work as best as they can. Nutrition and exercise are critical to the body functioning properly and to be healthy. Nutrition is essential for energy and for the body to continue to work as it is designed to. Exercise is important for the body to keep good muscle tone and keep your lungs functioning well. People who do not do sufficient physical activity have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, colon and breast cancers, Type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. Low levels of physical activity are a major risk factor for ill health and mortality from all causes (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare). Being physically active improves mental and musculoskeletal health and reduces other risk factors such as overweight, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2013). The National Physical Activity Guidelines for Australians recommend that we should undertake at ...