Aquariums Are Good For Your Health

As college students, we feel a lot of stress around midterms. There's just so much to do! But, did you know that watching fish swim in an aquarium can reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure? Its true and its not only beneficial for college students pulling an all night study session. Patients with hypertension can greatly benefit from watching fish swim around in an aquarium. In this study, participants with both normal and high blood pressure were asked to read aloud, rest and look at fish. Look at the numbers:

Both groups of participants had the lowest blood pressure while watching the fish. Several studies going back to the 1980s support using an aquarium as a way to relax and lower blood pressure. Aquariums are soothing and bring on a state of calm. In western culture, many of us have lost our connection to nature. It is important for us to reconnect with the Earth; it is good for our health. The natural world is a thing of beauty and we should take time to appreciate its wonders.

You can read more about the benefits of owning an aquarium and other pets here.
-Rachel Wright