How come people can stare at fires and fish tanks for so long?

Question

What is it about fish tanks and fires that can cause people to almost get lost in them?

Answer 1

I don't know, but I do. I've spent hours staring into my brothers large and intricate fish tank, and have woken myself from ym daze actually laughing out loud at something pecuilar happening within. I think its the elements that attract us, because it isn't anything attainable to us. I stare into the fire and day dream, and I think its because its fascinating.

Answer 2

I think it is partly the constantly changing visual stimuli.  But because they are organic, they have an evolving pattern that connects with the human brain in a manner that is difficult to replicate in an artificial  or synthetic way.  It is something that is outside of the realm of our own experience - we are not fish; we are not fire - yet which resonates with us as we feel connected in a way that cannot quite be defined.  Note that the video fish tank or video fires that you can purchase just don't do it for most people.  Our brain detects the "fake."  I can get the same effect by staring at waves as the lap up on a sand beach.  It evokes a meditative or hypnotic frame of mind that is very soothing.

Answer 3

They're naturally hypnotic, incredibly beautiful, very relaxing, induce soul searching & can get the intuitive/creative juices flowing.

Answer 4

There is something about a fire that is somewhat hypnotic.  It's really easy to get a little lost when staring at one.  I don't know why this happens with fish tanks too, but it sure does.

Answer 5

I think it is due to the natural beauty of the mentioned. Fires are always comforting and maybe I farted and my house blew up.

Answer 6

They're very relaxing and mesmerizing...there's a soothing, natural element to fish, water and fire.

It's the way we're designed and created.