Looking For A New Pet? Science-Proven Health Benefits Of Owning An Aquarium  

Aquariums have the ability to reduce anxiety and stress by inducing the calming effort of a natural setting. A study in 2004 revealed that patients experienced a 12% reduction in anxiety during the presence of an aquarium. It is the sound effects of ocean waves, running streams, and rainstorms that are peaceful and relaxing to the mind. So, do you experience stress, high blood pressure, or frequent events of insomnia?

Keeping a fish tank in your home may be good therapy. In fact, studies since the late ‘80s have shown just how aquariums may improve your sleep, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure.

Calm-inducing properties in water

People with a “blue mind” experience a meditative state of calmness, unity, and a general sense of happiness within the moment, according to marine biologist, Wallace J. Nichols. Watching the livelihood of fish in their habitat helps to relax and calm children with hyperactivity disorder. Other studies revealed that dental patients experienced less pain after viewing a fish tank during their visit. Not to mention, research also showed a significant reduction in blood pressure in senior citizens.

Improve heart rate and blood pressure

Fish tanks have the ability to play a positive effect on one’s physical condition, according to a study by the UK’s Plymouth University. Scientists also found that staring at swimming fish could greatly improve an individual’s well-being. In fact, researchers also found the following:

3% reduction in heart rate when aquarium contained only rock and seaweed

7% reduction in low blood pressure when fish occupied the tank

An overall boost in mood when the tank contained high numbers of fish

Experts also believe that while public aquariums may emphasize habitat awareness, they can also offer a place for stress relief, especially for those unable to experience outdoor natural environments.

Reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers learned that aquariums could improve eating habits and behavioral patterns in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. A study by Purdue University revealed that an aquarium increases the patients’ food intake by 21.1% – benefiting the need for less nutritional supplements, health care expenses, and boosting healthy eating practices. In fact, research also revealed an increase in attentiveness as patients viewing a fish tank for up to 30 minutes.

Induce better quality sleep

Eighty percent of individuals with sleep apnea are undiagnosed and left untreated. This is often due to an airway obstruction resulting in pauses of breathing. Meanwhile, sixty-six percent of surveyors said that their fish tanks not only helped them relieve stress and anxiety but also improve their quality of sleep. Therefore, those experiencing difficulties in sleep would benefit from gazing at a fish-filled aquarium to aid in insomnia.

Owning an aquarium comes with tons of benefits as some say the purpose of fish is to absorb the negative energy, based on Feng Shui. Others believe that fishes may even protect the home and spare you bad luck. So, whether these sayings are true or not, one thing’s for sure: a stunning fish tank can improve your health and overall well-being.