People who keep fish and aquariums have shown vast improvements in their physical and mental well-being, a study has suggested. As well as improving people’s mood, the experiment showed “significant” reductions in participants’ heart rates and blood pressure, the authors added. The findings appear in the journal Environment and Behavior. Collecting data from participants in the aquarium hobby provided the researchers with a unique opportunity to examine the links between human well-being and the fishkeeping hobby. As you might expect, people felt a lot more relaxed and significantly happier while looking at and working on their aquariums. And there were significant drops in heart rates and significantly lower blood pressure in the fishkeepers who took part in the study. It has also been noted that keeping fish as pets can also help to promote social interaction and communication. This is because fish are excellent companions for both adults and children. Below are 7 benefits you can gain from keeping fish, and something you might suggest to someone who suffers from stress and anxiety.
Keeping aquariums can have numerous mental health benefits, including:
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Watching fish swim can be calming and soothing, and can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels.
- Improved mood: Looking at colorful and lively fish can help to improve mood and increase feelings of happiness and contentment.
- Decreased blood pressure: Studies have shown that watching fish swim can lower blood pressure and heart rate, leading to a more relaxed state.
- Increased relaxation: The sound of water and the gentle movement of the fish can create a relaxing atmosphere that promotes calmness and relaxation.
- Improved sleep: The calming effects of watching fish can help to promote better sleep and reduce insomnia.
- Increased sense of responsibility: Caring for an aquarium can provide a sense of responsibility and purpose, which can lead to increased self-esteem and feelings of accomplishment.
- Increased social interaction: Aquariums can serve as a conversation starter and a way to connect with others who share similar interests.
Overall, maintaining an aquarium can be a rewarding and relaxing hobby that has positive effects on mental health and well-being. However, it’s important to remember that aquariums require time, effort, and financial resources to maintain, so it’s important to consider these factors before starting an aquarium. However, it’s worth noting that fishkeeping may not be suitable for everyone, and some people may find it stressful or difficult to maintain an aquarium.
