Colour is more than a visual experience. It is also a psychological one that can affect mood and emotion as colours and emotions are closely linked.
Research shows that colours can greatly affect our moods and the way other people respond to us. Colours can even change our heart rate, blood pressure and respiration rate as researchers Keith W Jacobs and Frank E Hustmyer discovered in 1974.
While perceptions of colour are somewhat subjective and cultural, there are some colour effects that have universal meaning.
Colours in the red area of the colour spectrum are known as warm colours and include red, orange and yellow. These warm colours evoke emotions ranging from feelings of warmth, comfort, and have an uplifting effect on mood.
Colours on the blue side of the spectrum are known as cool colours and include blue, purple and green. These colours are often described as calming, soothing and have a relaxing effect on mood.
Colour can play an important role in conveying information, creating mood, influencing decisions and are frequently used for healing.