For most people, they may think the only benefit to keeping fish tanks is that they look cool. However, there are many health and emotional benefits that come with owning an aquarium too!
In this article, we’re going to look at the calming effect of fish tanks, then decide if you should keep one!
How Do Fish Tanks Reduce Stress?
So how exactly do fish tanks reduce stress? Well, the answer lies in stimuli.
Our brains take in a lot of information, then respond to it. In stressful situations or environments, your brain may release adrenaline or activate your fight or flight response. For example, in the office when phones are ringing and people are rushing left and right, your brain might perceive the situation as chaotic and send chemicals to your body to “hype yourself up”.
On the other hand, in calming or soothing situations, your brain becomes more relaxed and starts releasing calming chemicals. This makes you feel more relaxed and less stressed out.
One of the best calming stimuli to intake is the sound and sight of running water. There’s nothing more soothing than enjoying an afternoon at the beach and watching the waves crash against the shores.
Many of us know the benefits of flowing water. Heck, that’s one reason why going fishing in the local lake or river is so fun for many people! Many of my fishing friends always tell me that the best part of fishing besides catching the fish is soaking up the sounds of nature and taking in its beauty.
And THAT is the reason why fish tanks reduce stress. Aquariums naturally give off the feeling of being at the lake or river. Giving off the stimuli of calming, majestic water.
Benefits Of Fish Tanks?
Now that you know how fish tanks reduce stress, let’s look at the benefits you’ll notice if you own one.
You’ll Feel Calmer
The first thing you’ll notice when keeping fish is that you’ll feel calmer and “down to earth.” You’ll have that sense of being in nature while enjoying the luxuries of your own home.
Taking in the sight of beautiful fish swimming through a fish tank setup will make you feel calmer and more mellow. All around, you’ll feel more at peace and ready to tackle your day.
You’ll Feel Happier
Feeling stressed out is one of the biggest reasons for someone to feel down. Although fish tanks won’t remove all the stress in your life, they’ll definitely remove some. With that, you’ll notice that you look on the bright side more often and feel happier.
When taking in the sight of fish, you may feel more optimistic about things and maybe even look forward to something you used to not to.
All around, you’ll feel an uplift in mood that’ll reflect on your character.
You’ll Feel More Focused
Another benefit to fish tanks is that you’ll feel more focused or zoned in on whatever you’re doing.
We’ve all been there at times where we’ve felt unable to concentrate on things.
Especially for creative work like writing or drawing, focusing on your work is extremely important. Fish tanks will add that spark for you to get into the mindset of getting work done.
Essentially, you feel more into what you’re doing
You’ll Feel More Productive
One of the best benefits to fish tanks is the sense of feeling productive. Whether you’re cleaning the tank or feeding the fish, you’ll have that feeling of doing something.
You’ll Have Fun
Finally, the best part of fishkeeping is that you’ll have fun! Whether you’re doing your tanks chores like checking the filter or something more exciting like adding a new fish into the tank, you’ll have fun.
You’re growing an entire community of aquatic life in your home, and the thought of that is just awesome!
Every fish tank is unique, and yours will have a staple on your home.
Summary
Fishkeeping is a fun, relaxing, and rewarding hobby.
Creating something unique is always a blast and fish tanks will have that effect.
From feeling calm and happy to focused and productive, fishkeeping will have a positive effect on your life.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and relaxing hobby to start, consider opening up a fish tank in your home. You won’t look back 😉
Meet The Author
Hi there, my name is Gunnar Kennedy! I’m a fishkeeping enthusiast and owner of Smartfishkepeer. I love sharing new ideas and helping others care for their aquatic friends! I Hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new!
