The Healing Power of Aquariums: How Fishkeeping Improves Your Body, Mind, and Spirit
From lowering blood pressure and improving sleep to easing anxiety and nurturing emotional balance, this episode investigates the research and shared experiences that show how aquariums affect the body, mind, and spirit. Drawing on studies from the University of Plymouth, Purdue University, and experts like Diana Walstad and Takashi Amano, Art reveals why the simple act of keeping fish can bring profound peace and wellness to your life.
Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting your first tank, this episode offers practical insight, reflective storytelling, and real scientific evidence that will deepen your appreciation of the hobby and yourself.
🌿 Listen and learn how:
Watching fish reduces stress and blood pressure
Tank maintenance doubles as gentle, mindful exercise
Aquariums provide emotional grounding and structure
Fishkeeping fosters patience, empathy, and perspective
Your aquarium can become a personal sanctuary for stillness
💬 Join the conversation:
Has your aquarium helped your health or mental wellbeing? Share your story in the comments for this episode.
Referenced Studies & Sources
Cracknell D. et al., “Viewing aquarium displays elicits a physiological and behavioural response.” Environment & Behavior (2015). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5081108/
Edwards N.E. & Beck A.M. “Animal-assisted therapy and nutrition in Alzheimer’s disease.” American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2002). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12365769/
Edwards N.E. et al., “The influence of aquariums on weight in individuals with dementia.” Journal of Nutrition Health & Aging (2013). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23138175/
University of Plymouth, “Aquariums deliver health and wellbeing benefits.” (2015). https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/aquariums-deliver-health-and-wellbeing-benefits
European Centre for Environment & Human Health, “Attention Restoration Theory – A Systematic Review.” (2017). https://www.ecehh.org/research/attention-restoration-theory-a-systematic-review/
⭐ Call to Action:
If this episode brings value to your day, please leave a rating or review. This helps The Aquarist’s Edge reach more fishkeepers around the world!
🎵 Music Credit: “Hearts” – Erik Fernholm (Epidemic Sound)
https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/f073c9bd-8d62-4831-a631-bf7af7c3dcfd/
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Snails In Freshwater Aquariums - Friends or Foes?
Art explores the fascinating world of freshwater aquarium snails. Are they helpful allies or invasive pests? The truth lies somewhere in between.
From Malaysian trumpet snails and ramshorns to nerites and mystery snails, this episode explores the most common species aquarists encounter, their benefits to aquarium ecosystems, and the potential problems they can cause. You’ll learn practical snail control methods, prevention strategies, and even how to care for snails as intentional pets.
Whether you’re battling an unexpected snail invasion or considering nerite snails for algae control, this episode provides practical, science-backed advice to help you manage your freshwater tanks with confidence.
📌 Key Topics Covered:
Types of freshwater snails in aquariums
Benefits of snails: algae control, detritus removal, substrate aeration
Problems with overpopulation and plant damage
Snail invasion troubleshooting and population control methods
Caring for mystery and nerite snails as pets
Prevention: quarantine, plant dips, and smart feeding
Snails as ecosystem indicators and their role in nature
💬 Enjoyed this episode? Please leave us a review and share your snail experiences with the community!
Music: "Coffee Shop Date (Instrumental)" - Jaydan Talley (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/a856a9ec-35d6-313e-9178-c25534c8a33a/)
In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, we examine the world of planaria in shrimp tanks - what they are, why they appear, and how to keep them under control. If you’ve ever spotted these flatworms gliding across your aquarium glass and worried about the safety of your shrimp colony, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need.
From identifying planaria versus harmless detritus worms, to understanding how they impact baby shrimp, to proven natural and chemical control methods, this episode is packed with expert guidance and practical tips. You’ll also learn long-term prevention strategies to keep your shrimp tanks balanced and thriving.
Whether you’re struggling with a current infestation or simply want to be prepared, this is a helpful guide for every shrimp keeper.
Music: "Swaying" - Candelion (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b99559b7-b6ca-4bd8-b1d0-682f3c9411bf/)
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How to Set Up the Perfect Guppy Tank - Temperature, pH, Hardness & Tank Size Guide
We take a look at how to set up the perfect guppy tank. From the ideal tank size to the right temperature, pH, and water hardness, you’ll learn everything you need to create a stable environment where guppies thrive.
Whether you’re a beginner struggling with constant guppy losses or an experienced aquarist looking to refine your setup, this episode is packed with scientific explanations, practical home aquarist tips and advice to help you succeed.
Click here for more guppy care episode: Guppy Care Playlist on YouTube (Aquarist's Edge episodes)
Music: "Just One More Day" - Kikoru (Epidemic Sound - https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/b59a9f47-4f3f-3dd2-85be-c8d1fab2f725/)
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Tannins Explained: Blackwater Aquariums, Fish Health, and the Science of Tea-Stained Water
“Tannins Explained” takes you into the science and beauty of blackwater aquariums. In this episode of The Aquarist’s Edge, Art explores what tannins are, where they come from, how they influence water chemistry, and why so many softwater fish thrive in tannin-rich environments. From driftwood and Indian almond leaves to peat and alder cones, learn exactly how tannins transform your tank and how to use them safely.
Whether you’re curious about why your driftwood stained your tank, how tannins lower pH, or which fish species benefit most from blackwater setups, this episode is packed with clear explanations, troubleshooting advice, and practical aquascaping tips.
Mentioned in this episode: The Tint podcast: https://tanninaquatics.com/pages/inspiration
Music: "West Coast Dreams" - Ben Curtis (Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/music/tracks/07feeb8f-922a-4e5c-9a99-6737dba094f1/)
About The Aquarist’s Edge [Weekly Aquarium Podcast]
The Aquarist’s Edge is your trusted source for all things freshwater fishkeeping. Hosted by Arthur Preston of Art’s Fish Room, this podcast dives into the latest aquarium news, expert advice, species spotlights, and practical tips for hobbyists of all levels. Whether you're breeding guppies or setting up your first tank, The Aquarist’s Edge brings insight, inspiration, and community to your fishkeeping journey.
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