Health Benefits

In all cases, having some sort of aquarium reduced blood pressure. Interestingly enough, greater reduction in blood pressure occurred when there were fish in the tank, vs pleasingly decorated, but fishless, tanks. Even watching a video tape of fish has been proven to have therapeutic effects. Seniors who were provided with an aquarium filled with fish had significant blood pressure reduction.

Watching fish has been shown to calm children who suffer from hyperactivity disorder. Dental patients who were subjected to hypnosis vs. an aquarium experienced the same or greater benefit from the aquarium. Other studies have shown that dental patients required less pain medication after having watched fish in the office. It’s little wonder that physician offices, dental clinics, and even waiting rooms for counselors have traditionally kept an aquarium in the waiting room.

Gazing at the movement of fish reduces stress, relaxes the mind and makes every day problems seem less aggravating. The movement of the fish is almost hypnotic, putting you in a trance similar to meditation.

Studies have shown that seniors who have Alzheimer’s experience a variety of health benefits from watching an aquarium. Alzheimer patients ate more, and required fewer supplements after an aquarium was placed in the dining room. They also exhibited less physically aggressive behaviors.

Virtually any aquarium, from large to small, will have a benefit. A large aquarium is great, but if space is limited, a mini-aquarium will do.