responding to color, it's more than science

Photo of plants blurred by the wind.

     We know that we respond to color.  Enough studies have been done to show that the energy of colors can have a physical and psychological effect on us that we don't need to debate that today.

     In general it's not until we reach about age 15 that we can discriminate colors as accurately as adults.  But as we age  there is a decline in that accuracy.   Some color matching test scores show a decline by as much as 70% by age 60.  They show that there is a decrease in our ability to see the differences in the colors at the blue end of the spectrum.

     We know color affects emotions.  So much so that some prisons are using a particular shade of pink because it calms aggression.  Infant jaundice has been effectively treated with blue light in one study.  In another study people with Parkinson's Disease seemed to worsen when exposed to red, but exposure to green light seemed to improve their condition.  I find the results of these studies encouraging as we look for ways to improve our lives in general.

     We all have color preferences that could affect how we react or how strongly we react to those colors.  There are cultural associations that might affect how we view colors.  The western world regards white as representing purity and a good color for brides.  In China it is a color of mourning.  Red is considered a lucky color in China, a good color for brides.  We tend to feel warmer in a red-orange room than we do in a blue-green room set at the same temperature.  This is all a set of perimeters that need to be consider as we consider the colors we are using and how they will affect our lives.

     Color meanings and associations are complex.  It doesn't take away from using colors in our lives to create a more holistic home or workplace.  I hope you will continue the journey with me as we look at colors and using art to enhance our lives.

     If you are enjoying what you read please click the 'like' button below to let me know.  Or you can always leave a comment.