As a child, you probably loved taking trips to the nearest aquarium with your family. What’s not to love about being able to see the most exquisite underwater animals ocean life has to offer? Being up close and personal with nature is a one-of-a-kind experience, but not everyone immediately realizes the benefits of being around such unique exhibits. Those who have an aquarium or small tank in their home or office might think it’s just a hobby, but there’s a reason why some people become hooked on it. Since ASI has worked on many projects at zoos and aquariums all over the world, we came up with the top 3 health and life benefits we think you should know.
Mental Health
Some feel more grounded when being near the ocean or a lake, and it makes perfect sense. Scientific research has proven that we as humans have a natural attraction to water. After all, our brains are 75% water. Water helps plants grow, hydrates our bodies, and nourishes the animals we eat to help us survive. Being around any water features, such as the ocean, an aquarium, a fish tank, or a fountain, can reduce stress and anxiety. The psychological benefits of being around water include:
- Increased mental energy
- Reduced stress
- Increased alertness
- Decrease in depression
- Better sleep
Dr. Allan Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ph.D., LCSW, makes a point on the fact that aquariums have soothing effects, such as “…When you listen to the sound of waves, rainstorms, or running streams, it is both mesmerizing as well as relaxing.”
Body Benefits
Did you know that just by looking at swimming fish, your blood pressure and heart rate decrease? A study conducted by the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth University, and the University of Exeter found that the heart rate decreases by 7%. Seniors with high blood pressure can significantly benefit from being exposed to a water feature or aquarium. It’s no coincidence that spas, doctor offices, hospitals, and even retirement centers often have several water fountains on-premise. “Fish tanks and displays are often associated with attempts at calming patients in doctors’ surgeries and dental waiting rooms,” according to Dr. Sabine Pahl, Associate Professor in Psychology at Plymouth University.
Feng Shui
Yes, there is such a thing as fish tank feng shui. The definition of Feng shui is “the Chinese art or practice of creating harmonious surroundings that enhance the balance of yin and yang, as in arranging furniture or determining the siting of a house.” It’s not uncommon to see fish tanks or aquariums in feng shui practice, and when placed properly, they are believed to bring a plethora of good fortune. Here’s why:
- Fish tanks are said to set money and career luck in motion
- They can counter negative energy
- It could attract love affairs
- They often get credit for bringing wealth, money, and abundance
So next time you visit your local Asian restaurant, you might realize there’s more than one fish tank displayed. It’s not just for patron entertainment but most likely the practice of feng shui.
Who would have thought that aquariums have more benefits than just getting up close to some of the world’s most incredible creatures? Water features and aquariums positively impact our well-being, health, and even our space! (Thanks to feng shui.) Next time you decide to pack up the family and head to the closest aquarium, consider that you might be visiting one of the many exhibits completed by our team at ASI. We take pride in creating world-class water features and animal exhibits that impress and entertain for a lifetime. When it comes to your special project, contact us today to see what we can do for you. For more information, give us a call at 970-523-6001 or visit our website.
