So what is Colour psychology?

Some aspects of colour psychology are very subjective Colour is a form of non verbal communication. It is not a static energy and its meaning can change with any individual; however there are many accepted and proven elements. The psychology of colour basically refers to the emotional and mental effects colours have on sighted people in all facets of life. It should be noted that colour energy effects are not restricted only to the sighted. Those with impaired vision are equally receptive to these energies that are received as vibrations through the aura.

Keep in mind there will be variations in interpretation, meaning and perception between different cultures.

In art therapy, colour is often associated with ones emotions. Colour also influences ones mental and physical state.

As soon as we are old enough to know colours, we start to have favourites and just as there are individual colour preferences, there are also strong associations with each of the basic colours that are shared by almost everybody.

There are commonly noted psychological effects of colour as it relates to two main categories: warm and cool. Warm colours being red, orange, yellow which can elicit a variety of emotions ranging from comfort and warmth to hostility and anger. These colours are often associated with food and said to stimulate people’s appetite. Warm colours can also stimulate conversation and would be excellent in a dining room or family room where families and friends get together to interact. Cool colours such as blue , green , purple elicit feelings of calmness as well as sadness. Blue and green are typically restful colours and therefore suitable for areas in which one would seek peace and calm.

If you are planning to paint a house or room, you may want to consider how colours affect your emotions and mood before making your choice.

The following are some common associations of colour in the WESTERN hemisphere. Keep in mind that certain shades or tones may result in very different meanings. The context around the colour can have an effect too. The psychological effects of colour will be discussed in the next post!

RED is viewed as an exciting and dramatic colour. Red stimulates the appetite – thin Italian restaurant! Dark shades of red like burgundy have a rich and stately feel about them. A front door painted burgundy is dramatic and inviting. Red can energize but too much of it will be exhausting. A red bedroom therefore would not be restful, rather consider PINK in a bedroom which is a less demanding shade of red.

ORANGE is cheerful and a great colour for joyful social gatherings. It is a bold, exciting, friendly and informal colour that enhances communication and positive feelings. Dark version of orange is terracotta or rust. Good to use in a family inviting conversation and feeling of friendliness.

YELLOW is the most visible colour – hence yellow street signs! Yellow inspires intellectual clarity and organization. Pastel yellow makes a nice cheerful backdrop in a room. Gold tomes create an atmosphere of richness. Intellectually beneficial but does not for restful downtime!

BLUE  is the most popular colour. It reminds us of blue skies and deep blue oceans.It’s cool energy is very calming. Feelings of serenity are associated with blue. This colour works well in bedrooms and areas where relaxation is required. Reduces blood pressure and soothes to sleep.

GREEN is the colour of nature. Easy on the eyes, green is a very soothing colour. Green brings balance, harmony and rejuvenation to a room.

PURPLE In ancient times , purple was a colour that symbolized royalty, luxury ,elegance and sophistication. Sometimes even magic and mystery. Purple is comforting, protective and calming. This rich colour inspires faith, intuition and trust. Entire rooms painted in purple however, could be overpowering.

BROWN is another colour associated with nature. Brown is relaxing and easy to live with. Lighter hues of beige work well with most colour schemes. Red-browns are more formal , work well in living rooms.

BLACK is authoritative. Used carefully it conveys sophistication but too much black will be depressing.

It is wise, when considering colours for YOUR home to choose colours that YOU are comfortable with. Awareness of how different colours affect your emotional and physical state is important if you intend living with the colour on your walls long term.