The Psychology of Colours: The Effects that Different Colours Have on your Mood

 

 

The idea that colour may have some sort of bearing on your mood is not just something that has been peddled by modern psychologists. As a matter of fact, even ancient cultures like the Chinese and the Egyptians seemed to think that there was some truth to this suggestion and consequently practiced some form of chromo therapy.  Nevertheless, whatever you believe about colours, here are a few things that psychologists tell us about them:

 

Red

This is the colour of fire and everything that goes with it including passion, anger and power. It has been known to quicken the heart rate aside from activating an urge to fight. Red is also thought to encourage eating, hence the reason you’ll find it on so many fast food logos. It might be an idea to avoid using it in the kitchen or dining room if you’re trying to watch your weight!

 

Green

For many people this colour symbolises balance, rest and reassurance. It is not a wonder then that we love to spend time in naturally green environments like parks, and how fields and open spaces are often considered to be nature’s therapy for stressed minds. However, green also indicates boredom.

 

Black

In many cultures black has been portrayed as the colour of evil; that notwithstanding the colour actually implies sophistication and power as well as mystery.

 

Blue

This is simply the colour of clarity and calmness and is one of the most loved colours in the world. Conversely, blue may also indicate coldness and disdain.

 

White

A colour that has adorned Western brides for ages as a symbol of their purity; white is also used on surfaces and attires to exude an aura of sterility and cleanliness.

 

Yellow

This is the colour of the sun and as expected it churns up feelings of optimism and friendliness. A yellow outfit has been said to raise spirits in almost the same way that a glimmer of sunshine on a rainy day would.

 

Brown

Since brown is the colour of the earth; experts say that coming into contact with it produces feelings of stability and being one with nature. All the same, the colour may also be responsible for feelings of humourlessness.

 

Pink

Although pink is a variation of red it doesn’t inspire such intense feelings as its predecessor does. As a matter of fact pink makes us feel tranquil and feminine.

 

Grey

Just like the phrase ‘grey skies’ this colour can give rise to feelings of depression and fatigue. But on the positive side; grey is associated with psychological neutrality.

 

Orange

Being such a bold colour, orange gives us a ‘fun’ feeling and is quite popular during summer. What’s more, the colour also implies abundance and warmth.

 

Have you chosen a particular colour for a room in your home for any specific reason? Do you find that certain colours make you feel a certain way? Share your colour thoughts with us in the comments.