Colour Psychology And Healing

All shades of colour have their own vibrations and we react the them in different ways dependant upon how we are feeling, our state of mind and physical health. Illness can severely affect these vibrations, we know that when we see people who are unwell, they looked drained of 'colour'.

Therefore, it is always advisable to bear the unconscious meanings of colour in mind whenever dressing for any occasion.

The rods and curves at the back our retinas help us to perceive colour, people who are colour blind have rods and curves that are not working correctly. As we age our perceptions of colour change.

The Basics of Colour

Hue: Represents the quality by which we are able to tell one colour family from another, as in the hues of the colour wheel. Hue is also the name of a colour or colour family and gives a colour its distinctive, recognisable quality. Technically, differences in hue are attributable to differences in the wavelength of light waves, which allow us to see different colours.

Value: Is the lightness of a colour. It is the quality by which we can tell the difference between a light colour and dark one. To increase the value of a colour, it is lightened, or tinted, by adding more and more white to it. To decrease the value of a colour, it is darkened, or shaded, by adding more and more black to it. White has the highest value and is always at the high end of the value scale. Black has the lowest value and lies at the low end of the value scale.

Intensity: Also known as chroma, it is the saturation or strength of a colour. It is the quality by which we can tell a strong colour from a weak one. In a colour intensity scale, the less intense or weaker samples will approach grey, while the more intense, or stronger samples will approach a pure, jewel-like colour.

The psychological attributes of colours are deeply-seated in our sub consciousness, affecting our emotions and responses to them. Whatever the occasion, there is a colour to suit it.

Different colours have long symbolised different objects or emotions. At the same time, studies have shown that colours have different psychological effects on people. Whatever the occasion, you may wish to wear a certain colour or colour combination in order to create the desired impact.

Red - The Base Chakra - Bottom of the Spine, Foundations, Grounding, Element Earth Symbolises fire and blood, and stands for excitement and physical strength. It has a great deal of energy and intensity, and can also create a very romantic, passionate or dramatic mood. It can appear aggressive and should be used appropriately as it could create the wrong impression. If worn in business, keep it small - a tie for a man, preferably below the waist for a woman, a red jacket could be perceived as too much, but is entirely dependant upon the situation and the audience, just be aware of the potential reactions to this colour.

Pink & Peach: Pinks and peaches are a much more effeminate hue, although it can be worn well by men if contrasted by charcoals, blacks and other deep colours.

Orange: The Second Chakra - The Element of Water - Frequently used in children's toys and games, Orange is mainly associated with play, fun and friendliness.

Yellow - The Third Chakra - Solar Plexus, between bottom of chest and top of belly button, Element Fire Yellow is the colour of sunshine. It represents radiance, warmth and receptivity and brings out an approachable and cheerful outlook.

Green - The Fourth Chakra- The Heart, Element Air Green induces a feeling of stability, balance, naturalness and tranquillity. When used near your face, green can also create tension and drama.

Blue - The Fifth Chakra- The Throat, Element Space/Ether. Blue represents the sky and water. The light blues are calming, while the dark blues such as navy, give off a feeling of power and authority. Navy is one of the most versatile neutrals. Blue is a great colour to wear for communication.

Purple: The Sixth Chakra - The Element of Light - With historical links to the church, royalty and the law, purple is a sign of power and mystical presence.

Brown - Is associated with the ground, dirt and earth. It creates a feeling of comfort, sincerity and casualness.

Black: One of the most dynamic and striking colours, black can be used for a variety of situations, socially or formally.

Grey: A mixture of black and white, grey shows balance and calmness. Darker hues signify authority and greater power.

White - The Seventh Chakra - The Crown. White is symbolic of light. It stands for purity, cleanliness, innocence and goodness

So, make sure that when you pick out your clothes for the day that you're putting across the right message. Wearing exuberant colours can give you the pep you need to get on with the day, although you must consider the reactions of others.

Start to experiment with different colours.