Aquariums
Water life has a captivating charm for human observation or why else should the ancient Chinese breed Koi fish in ponds over two millennia ago. This attraction towards observing fish continued over centuries until it became a hobby in the nineteenth century Britain to keep fish in fish tanks. After the first World War, the hobby assumed a wide popularity and is ever increasing in Europe, America, and Asia.
But watching fish is more than a hobby; it connects man to his ancestral presence – his evolutionary predecessors. Researchers in health studies today are discovering interesting connections of looking at an aquarium fish tank with live fish in it and its positive effects on human health. Hence the relation between fish-watching and personal health is biologically related, reinforcing the commonality of our origin from aquatic ancestors.
Stress Alleviation
It has been found that observing fish in an aquarium fish tank lowers the blood pressure, letting one feel stress-free and relaxed. Though the decoration of the tank plays its role, research finds that the drop in blood pressure is more pronounced when fish are present in the tank than when they are not in the same tank. Children suffering from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) have been found to calm down significantly after watching live fish in an aquarium fish tank. Great news for caring parents!
Aquarium Fish Tank as a Natural Analgesic
It is a matter of common observation to eye an aquarium fish tank in offices of physicians and dentists. The reason is the association between watching live fish in the tank and reduction in the intensity of pain. Less dosage of analgesic is required to quell the pain of patients when they have watched fish in the aquarium. This natural analgesic also works in bringing about a hypnotic trance and has been tried by psychoanalysts.
Aquarium Fish Tank and Brain Disorders
Fruitful results of fish watching have been observed in patients suffering from brain disorders like dementia. By placing an aquarium fish tank in their room, it has been found that patients of Alzheimer’s disease, which can include a severe case of dementia, showed improvement in behavior and nutrition.
Given the health benefits of watching live fish, it is advisable to make use of this natural medicine by placing an aquarium fish tank in the rooms, offices, clinics, and halls of our living and working places. The perpetuation of this existential, cross-species link between man and fish is for our own benefit and that of our lovable aquatic creature.
