Color therapy is a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modality which has be used for centuries for health and healing, particularly in relation to mental health and energy levels.
Why do we love seeing rainbows? They are full of color and they elevate our mood.
If we think of the colors of the rainbow, which we can remember by thinking of the made-up name ROY G. BIV, we will know that the rainbow is made up of 7 colors:
Red
Orange
Yellow
Green
Blue
Indigo (a bluish purple) and
Violet.
Each color has a certain psychological effect that can help heal past issues and boost energy levels. In this series of articles, we will be looking at color therapy, the effects of each of the 7 colors of the rainbow, and how color therapy can be used to enhance mood and an overall feeling of well-being.
What are the Psychological Effects of Color?
An interesting fact is that different cultures interpret colors in a different way. But, experiencing colors is a personal feeling. The psychology of color explores emotional and mental effects people experience from colors.
Each color has a particular meaning. Each also has a potential psychological effect. Every color has specific properties used in healing and mental health and wellness.
Red
Red is a warm color that evokes strong emotions. It stimulates the root chakra. Red associates with high energy, love, sexuality, and passion. It helps the adrenal gland to release adrenaline, which results in greater stamina. It intensifies and boosts the senses.
Red is an excellent choice for all rigid and passive people. It raises energy and excitement. It increases sexual desire, fertility, and activity. It is also helpful for healing the Root Chakra. If you feel ungrounded, red will help you get back into your body.
Too much red can arouse aggression and anger.
Orange
The orange color is warm, optimistic, and energetic. It associates with ambitions and new phases in our lives. It points us to new possibilities.
It makes situations easier to accept and gives the courage to face the consequences. It releases energy from the past that we need to release. It stimulates intuition and boosts feelings of enthusiasm and warmth.
It stimulates the Sacral Chakra. It has a liberating effect on the body and mind and can get us in tune with our imagination. It is a color that increases our willpower and creativity.
People with an aversion to this color have repressed sexual feelings. They could also have problems with sensual enjoyment.
In the next lesson, we will start with the psychological effects of yellow.
Further Reading
Healing With Crystals and Color Therapy Journal
