The Effect of Colors on Mood
THE EFFECT OF COLORS ON MOOD
Introduction
Got the blues. Green-eyed monster. Seeing Red. These are all phrases that we hear often. Do different colors really affect our moods? Many studies have shown that some colors make us feel calm, some make us feel anxious, and others may make us feel more cheerful. Let's take a look at some colors, their affect on us, their meanings, and some different views in other cultures.
The Effect of Colors on Mood
Colors and moods: A powerful mood-altering tool
Our moods can be greatly influenced by the visual cues of colors. Our mood can be influenced by our perception of color. Colors can conjure up many feeling and emotions. Following is just a few examples:
The Culture of Colors
Colors often have different meanings in various cultures. Western society has changed over the years as well. But today in the U.S., researchers have generally found the following to be accurate:
Blue
The color of the sky and the ocean, blue is one of the most popular colors. It causes the opposite reaction as red. Peaceful, tranquil blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, so it is often used in bedrooms. Blue can also be cold and depressing. Fashion consultants recommend wearing blue to job interviews because it symbolizes loyalty. People are more productive in blue rooms and studies show that weightlifters are able to lift more in blue gyms.
In Iran, blue is the color of mourning. In ancient Rome, public servants wore blue. Today, police and other public servants wear blue.
Red
The most emotionally intense color, red stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. It is also the color of love. Red clothing gets noticed and makes the wearer appear heavier. Since it is an extreme color, red clothing might not help people in negotiations or confrontations. Red cars are popular targets for thieves. Red is usually used as an accent in decorating.
In South Africa, red is the color of mourning. In China, red is the color of good luck and is
Introduction
Got the blues. Green-eyed monster. Seeing Red. These are all phrases that we hear often. Do different colors really affect our moods? Many studies have shown that some colors make us feel calm, some make us feel anxious, and others may make us feel more cheerful. Let's take a look at some colors, their affect on us, their meanings, and some different views in other cultures.
The Effect of Colors on Mood
Colors and moods: A powerful mood-altering tool
Our moods can be greatly influenced by the visual cues of colors. Our mood can be influenced by our perception of color. Colors can conjure up many feeling and emotions. Following is just a few examples:
The Culture of Colors
Colors often have different meanings in various cultures. Western society has changed over the years as well. But today in the U.S., researchers have generally found the following to be accurate:
Blue
The color of the sky and the ocean, blue is one of the most popular colors. It causes the opposite reaction as red. Peaceful, tranquil blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, so it is often used in bedrooms. Blue can also be cold and depressing. Fashion consultants recommend wearing blue to job interviews because it symbolizes loyalty. People are more productive in blue rooms and studies show that weightlifters are able to lift more in blue gyms.
In Iran, blue is the color of mourning. In ancient Rome, public servants wore blue. Today, police and other public servants wear blue.
Red
The most emotionally intense color, red stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. It is also the color of love. Red clothing gets noticed and makes the wearer appear heavier. Since it is an extreme color, red clothing might not help people in negotiations or confrontations. Red cars are popular targets for thieves. Red is usually used as an accent in decorating.
In South Africa, red is the color of mourning. In China, red is the color of good luck and is
References: Franco, V. (2002). How colors effect mood. Retrieved November 1, 2005, from http://ok.essortment.com/colormoodaffec_rehv.htm Johnson, D. (2005). Psychology of Color. Retrieved November 7, 2005 from http://www.infoplease.com/spot/colors1.html Kestrel Designs. (2005). Color Choices – Getting in the Mood . Retrieved November 7, 2005 from http://www.kestrel-designs.com Minamyer, S. (2004). Color and Moods. Retrieved November 1, 2005, from http://www.mood lites.com Nayar, J. (2004). Color: A powerful mood-altering tool. Retrieved November 1, 2005, from http://www.steelcase.com