We have installed aquariums in Dentist and Doctors waitings rooms and Hospitals and are well aware of the effect they have on relaxing people. This article from The Pet Gazzette is very interesting as it confirms what we have felt for a long time.
It has been discovered that fish tanks help to lower blood pressure and heart rate according to a study produced by theNational Marine Aquarium, Plymouth University and the University of Exeter assessed people’s physical and mental responses to tanks containing various levels of fish.
The study showed that: “Watching the exhibit, irrespective of condition, generally decreased blood pressure but the role of stocking level was unclear.”
After viewing an empty tank with just a few rocks participants still had a lowered heart rate by three percent and after fish were introduced into the tank this fell by seven percent. In watching the fish, blood pressure was also reduced by four percent. Participants felt more positive and more relaxed the longer they spent watching the aquarium.
Authors of the study concluded that: “There are psychological and physiological benefits of watching aquaria. The evidence that greater levels of stocking had positive effects on experience evaluations and mood extends findings from terrestrial studies that suggest dose–response relationships between biota levels and immediate psychological well-being.
