Of all the forms of non-verbal communication, color is the most instantaneous method of revealing messages and meanings; Green means good, Red means danger, Black means scary and White means pure. In fact there is a science to the use of colors known as colourology or chromotherapy (using colors to heal). It was practiced by several ancient cultures like the Egyptians and Chinese.
Color, without our realizing it, can have a profound effect on how we feel both mentally and physically. Colors even have the ability to soothe and also to stimulate us. Have you ever wondered why does a kid feel very happy when he sees bright colored fruits, candies, and juices. We appreciate color in our surroundings, such as the appreciation of a blue sky, a grassy knoll or a garden full of colorful blooms.
Approximately seven million different colors can be perceived by the human eye. Clearly, all will not have the benefits to our health. But here are a few major ones:
- Red: Red is the color that we pay the most attention to. This color has the characteristic effect of stimulating neurons, the adrenal (endocrine) glands and the sensory nerves. It enhances the circulation and reactivity of the blood. It is thought to stimulate and boost physical energy, strengthens willpower, increase circulation, clear congestion and is linked with sexuality. It evokes strong emotions and creates feelings of excitement or intensity. But at the same time, it can be perceived as demanding and aggressive. Notice how red is used in the English language: red-hot, seeing red, pain the town red.
- Yellow: Yellow is a bright color that can draw a lot of attention. It can be used in small amount to draw notice, such as the second light on stop lights or advertisements. Yellow color assists in stimulating various bodily functions, such as the flow of bile, and the action of the liver. It has laxative properties by the way of promoting the secretion of gastric juices, and therefore assisting with proper bowel elimination. Yellow is also associated with the intellect and mental processes and is uplifting. Yellow has proven to stimulate the brain making you more alert and decisive.
- Orange: Orange color, a combination of red and yellow, is a warm, welcoming color that makes people feel comfortable. Orange is associated with the sacral chakra and it is believed to benefit the kidneys, urinary tract and the reproductive organs. It also plays supportive role in augmenting the metabolism rate and strengthening the lungs, spleen and pancreas.
- Blue: Of all the colors in the spectrum, blue is an appetite suppressant. Weight loss plans suggest putting your food on a blue plate. Blue can also slow the pulse rate and lower body temperature. It's a calming color and is believed to help insomnia, anxiety, throat problems, high blood pressure, migraine and skin irritation. It's also thought to enhance verbal expression and communication, artistic expression and willpower. Strong blues will stimulate clear thought and lighter, soft blues will calm the mind and aid concentration.
- Violet: This color brings about a feeling of peacefulness and understanding, and promotes sleep. Specific high frequency radiations of this color inhibit tumor group. Uncontrolled appetite is controlled by this color. It is also thought to encourage spirituality, intuition, wisdom, mastery and mental strength and focus.
- Green: Green color is associated with nature and the natural world. Because of its connection to nature, Green is considered a calming and relaxing color. People who often feel tense can be helped with the color green. It balances emotions; creates openness between you and others. It's related to the heart chakra, so it's believed to help with emotional issues, such as love, forgiveness, trust and compassion. Researchers have also found that the color green can improve a students reading ability. Some students may find that when a transparent green sheet is places over reading material, it increases reading speed and comprehension. The relaxing and calming effect of the green color may be behind this behavior.
- Indigo: It is known to encourage greater intuition and strengthen the lymph system, immune system and help purify and cleanse the body.
- White: White is the best reliever of pain. It gives off the aura of freedom and openness. Hospitals and hospital workers use white to create a sense of sterility. However, too much white can be cold and isolating or can give headaches and cause eyestrain (due to the high amount of light that is reflected).
Each color radiates a different wavelength of energy and has different effect on individuals. By using different shades of color in your home or your diet you can bring harmony, stability and balance.
