In these uncertain times of a global crisis, it can sometimes feel as if the whole world has stopped moving. But, it can be reassuring to remember that life goes on, and Mother Nature isn’t on lockdown like the rest of us. You might be stuck indoors but outside, winter is beginning to thaw. As the temperature softens and spring unfolds, many of us will feel a sense of renewed energy and optimism. And it’s not just the warmer weather and Vitamin D that has our spirits lifting — with those blossoms blooming, skies full of blue, new green foliage on the trees and honey bees buzzing in the morning sun… the world in springtime really is a glorious place to behold!
The energy and emotional “lift” we feel on a beautiful spring day is a powerful reminder of just how easily affected we are by what we see in the world around us. In particular, the connection between color and our mood is fascinating.
Color is a powerful part of visual communication — used to signal action, influence mood, and even influence physiological reactions. Savvy marketers have been using color psychology for decades to try and influence consumer behaviour, while medical research has linked certain colors with associated outcomes such as increased blood pressure, increased metabolism, and eyestrain.
Have you ever noticed the instant perk-up you get when wearing a color you love? Or the feeling of calm when you enter a softly lit yoga studio? This spring, we encourage you to make the most of nature’s gorgeous color mood and bring a little more pop into your everyday. Maybe add a bright vase of flowers to your desk or dining table, add a new color to your wardrobe, or buy a new throw rug for your bedroom. You’ll be surprised what an impact on your mood it could have!
Not sure which colors to pick? While the scientific evidence is a little debatable, there are some generally accepted links between colors and emotional response. Here’s a quick rundown:
Happy colors: Happy colors are bright, warm colours like yellow, orange, pink and red. Pastel colors like peach, light pink or lilac are also thought to have an uplifting effect on your mood.
Energising colors: Highly pigmented, strong colors like royal blue, turquoise, magenta and emerald green can have a stimulating effect and make you feel refreshed and energized. Colors like bright red, bright yellow and neon green can feel energising and make you feel more alert, but can also be irritating on the eyes. These colors will grab your attention and stand out from their surroundings, but it pays to use them with restraint to avoid a negative effect.
Warm colors: Colors in the red area of the color spectrum are known as warm colors and include red, orange, and yellow. Warm colors often evoke feelings of happiness, optimism and energy.
Cool colors: Cool colors include green, blue, and purple. Cool colors are usually thought to calm and soothe, but can also express sadness. Purple is often used to help spark creativity as it’s a mixture of blue (calm) and red (intense).
