Observing the observers
Science has now confirmed what fishkeeping fans have known for some time: watching fish, shrimps and so on is relaxing and promotes well-being. And the more an aquarium contains, the stronger the effect.Standing by a gently babbling river or gazing out over a favourite landscape – again and again, studies confirm that calm moments in nature help people to relax. Researchers at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth have now proven that aquariums offer the same form of relaxation.
Its huge tanks have been pulling in the crowds for a long time now. When one of the tanks was restored and gradually filled with new aquatic creatures, the scientists seized the opportunity to conduct a small study.
They watched the visitors who looked at the new aquarium and measured parameters – blood pressure and pulse – that, among other things, indicate a person’s stress level. They also used surveys to ask about their health. Participants provided information about their mental well-being. And the results were clear: ‘We were able to show that the underwater landscapes had a positive effect on people’s moods’, explains head researcher Deborah Cracknell.