Aquarium Health Benefits

 Entertainment
Everyone remembers a nice looking aquarium as well where and when they saw it.
Aquariums keep guests, clients and customers entertained! In hotel lobbies, restaurants, banks, medical and corporate offices, aquariums are extremely interesting pieces of décor which provide guests, clients and customers with endless amounts of entertainment and ambience while waiting to be served. In addition, aquariums make aesthetically pleasing and relaxing focal points in family and living rooms.  

Health
Aquariums make you healthier and reduce stress! Recent studies have indicated a definite correlation between watching aquariums and the reduction of stress. According to a study conducted at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, researchers found that patients were calmer, sharper and had better appetites when exposed to aquariums full of colorful, gliding fish. Also, episodes of wandering, pacing and physical aggression associated with Alzheimer’s disease decreased.

Workplace Environment
Aquariums improve employee morale and productivity! A nationwide survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association revealed the many health benefits associated with the presence of aquariums in the workplace. The study indicated reduced blood pressure, lower stress levels and improved overall emotional and physical health. This, in turn, lead to happier, healthier employees, with more motivation, creativity and productivity in the workplace. One hundred percent of the companies polled agreed that having an aquarium in their offices relaxed employees, 73 percent of the participating companies reported that an aquarium in the office created a more productive work environment and 27 percent of the participating companies reported a decreased absenteeism rate. 

References and Further Reading

• Barba, BE. The positive influence of animals: animal assisted therapy in acute care. Clinical Nurse Specialist, 1995; 9(4):199-202.

• Beck, A; Katcher, A. Age of aquarium. Psychology Today, 1981; 15:14.

• DeSchriver, MM; Riddick, CC. Effects of watching aquariums on elders’ stress. Anthrozoos, 1990; 4(1):44-48.

• Edwards, N; Beck, AM. Using aquariums in managing Alzheimer’s disease: Increasing nutrition and improving staff morale. 2003. Pet Care Trust Final Report.

• Katcher, A; Segal, H; Beck, A. Comparison of contemplation and hypnosis for the reduction of anxiety and discomfort during dental surgery. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis. 1984; 27:14-21.

• Katcher, A; Segal, H; Beck, A. Contemplation of an aquarium for the reduction of anxiety. In R.K. Anderson, B. Hart, & L. Hart (Eds.), The pet connection. 1983; 171-178. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press.