How Does Colour Affect Your Mood?

You might not realise it but colours can have a surprisingly significant effect on your mood. Colour psychologists believe that the colours in the rooms of your home and your workplace can determine your perception of those environments, impacting your emotions and general wellbeing. Here are a few colour associations you may want to bear in mind next time you’re redecorating or buying new clothes.

Blue
While the word ‘blue’ is often used to describe sadness, the colour itself has much nicer connotations. Many find the colour calming, thanks to its associations with the sky, the sea and openness in general. Colour psychologists often recommend decorating the bedroom using soft blues to help calm the mind for a good night’s sleep.

Green
Green is typically associated with nature, evoking images of country hills, fields and trees. It’s a fresh, relaxing colour which can make people feel at ease. It’s generally considered to be pleasant without being too stimulating. In some countries, it is also associated with money and prosperity.

Yellow
Yellow is a bright, cheerful colour which makes people feel happy and optimistic. This is perhaps partly down to its association with sunlight. Some psychologists even suggest that being surrounded by warm colours like yellow and orange can make you feel warmer, regardless of whether there is any real change in temperature.

Red
The colour red has a couple of contrasting connotations. It’s linked to love and passion – think red hearts and roses – but it’s also associated with danger and aggression. It’s a strong, stimulating colour which attracts attention. In a 2008 study at the University of Rochester, researchers even found that women wearing red were regarded as more attractive and desirable than those wearing other colours.

Pink
Pink is usually thought of as a feminine colour, bringing to mind sweetness and innocence. Some psychologists also believe that pink is a calming colour. Being a tint of red, pink has a similar link to love, but is much less stimulating and more soothing.

White
White is the colour of purity and simplicity, which is why it’s the colour of traditional wedding dresses. It is also associated with cleanliness. A room with white walls will often be aesthetically pleasing because it will look clean, bright and spacious. However, a room filled with too much white can sometimes feel stark, cold and clinical.

Black
The colour black tends to conjure up negative images. It’s a serious colour, which makes many people think of death and funerals. However, it is also associated with luxury – you’ll find many expensive black items admired for their elegant simplicity. Black clothes are also generally regarded as stylish and slimming.

Understanding how colour can affect your mood allows you to make use of shades that will promote a positive state of mind. You might also have personal colour perceptions, associating certain colours with positive or negative memories. Try to surround yourself with colours that make you feel good and you may be surprised by just how much of an impact it has.