Color psychology is a real thing! It is based on how the brain process wavelengths of light which influences emotions and cognition. Different colors trigger specific emotions. Certain colors, like blue and green, are often associated with calmness and can help reduce stress. Others, like red, can be stimulating but possibly increase anxiety in some individuals. In addition, the presence of nature has been shown to have a de-stressing effect, possibly lowering cortisol levels and improving mood.
Colors and your surrounding environment can significantly impact stress levels. The colors you choose for your walls or your furniture stimulate or calm you. Do bright colors make you feel energetic? Subtle colors make you feel calm and secure in your home? We don’t necessarily think about how our surroundings affect our stress levels but it does have an impact on our state of mind.
Ever notice we choose clothing colors that make us feel good? Color impact is not only true for your environment but what you choose for your wardrobe. Select colors that align with your desired mood. Bright colors boost energy while calming colors help manage stress. Who knew that black pantsuit had the ability to make you feel powerful and in control for that important presentation? Or those cute pink slippers would help you feel calmer after a hard day at work?
Keep in mind, also, that nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood. If you think about it, how does it make you feel when you get an arrangement of flowers? Or walk into a room filled with beautiful green foliage?
Another thing to consider is natural light. Lighting can impact mood and stress levels. Need a relaxing or romantic evening…dim the lights. Got a report or homework that needs to be done…brighten the lights to simulate your energy.
One last thing to consider, cultural context should be considered when assessing the impact of colors, as the same color can evoke different emotions and responses in different cultures.
SO WHAT FEELINGS DO COLORS EVOKE?
*Red – a powerful, high-energy color that stimulates excitement and urgency. It can also be associated with warning or caution.
*Orange – evokes feelings of enthusiasm, creativity and warmth
*Yellow – bright, cheerful color that can enhance creativity and optimism but excessive yellow could lead to restlessness
*Purple – associated with luxury, mysterious, creativity and spirituality
*Blue – a calm color linked to tranquility, calmness and focus
*Green – a de-stressing color associated with nature and balance. Easy on the eyes and promotes concentration. It is known for its relaxing and de-stressing effects
*Pink – associated with love, romance and femininity
*Black – evokes feelings of sophistication, elegance and mystery, but also death and mourning in some cultures
*White – associated with purity, innocence and cleanliness
Surround yourself with things that make you feel good. Use the colors of the rainbow to de-stress and enhance the ambiance of your environment. Empower yourself by controlling the stimuli around you. Bringing balance to your surroundings, brings balance to you.
Featured items:
