If you have a stressful life, high blood pressure, or insomnia - keeping a fish tank aquarium may be good therapy for you.

Having an aquarium acts as a stable force that helps one cope with the stresses of everyday life, as well as treats a whole range of medical and emotional ailments. People are hypnotized by its peaceful and serene nature, creating a calming effect for a few moments in our hectic lives.

Studies going back as far as the late 80’s have shown that gazing at aquarium fish reduces stress and subsequently lowers blood pressure. Researchers find that fish aquarium tanks, whether salt or freshwater, do have therapeutic health benefits. At Purdue University, researchers have found that displaying tanks of brightly colored fish may curtail disruptive behaviors and improve eating habits of people with Alzheimer's disease. "Nursing Professor Nancy Edwards tracked 60 individuals who resided in specialized units in three Indiana nursing homes. She found that patients who were exposed to the fish tanks appeared to be more relaxed and alert, and they ate up to 21 percent more food than they had before the introduction of the fish tanks".

Some researchers have compared the effects of: with an aquarium vs. without an aquarium, having an aquarium vs. hypnosis, and fish-less vs. fish-filled aquariums. In all cases, having some sort of aquarium reduced blood pressure. Furthermore, a greater reduction in blood pressure occurred when there were fish in the aquarium compared to one which may be pleasingly decorated, but fish-less tank. Interesting enough, even watching a video tape of fish has been proven to have therapeutic effects. Also, fish watching has been shown to calm children who suffer from hyperactivity disorder. Patients who were subjected to hypnosis compared to gazing an aquarium experienced the same or greater benefit from the aquarium, with some requiring even less pain medication. That is the reason why, aside from its aesthetic value, a lot of physician offices and dental clinics keep an aquarium in their waiting rooms.

Any fish tank aquarium, regardless of size, will be highly beneficial. A large aquarium is great, but if space and/or budget are limited, a small one will suffice. Take advantage of these stress-relieving benefits and live a longer and healthier life.

Fred Banzon

http://cityaquariums.com