The Power of Color

By Lisa D. Ellis

Ever notice when you step into your closet that many of your clothes are in similar colors? This is because it is very common for people to be drawn to certain shades, which may appeal to them on a visual or emotional level. Further, the colors you select can have a major impact on your mood, influencing how you feel, act and even look. That’s why if you want to make over your wardrobe or even your room, getting a color update is often the easiest, and also most effective, way to accomplish this goal.

Color Cues

Advertisers have long recognized the effect that selecting certain colors can have on their target audience. Some hues seem to have universal appeal and can also solicit a desired response, such as making you want to buy or own something. Other colors can also make you feel hungry, tired, refreshed, or even lonely. Part of the response you have to a color is inherent in the shade itself and the associations you make to it. For instance, the sight of a robin redbreast may give you a burst of joy, while the dark blue of the ocean may provoke a sense of deep peace and the glow of the yellow sun can make you feel lighter and more hopeful.

Of course beyond these more predictable reactions to color, your responses will likely also include some of your own personal experiences. For instance, seeing a particular shade of bright green may remind your of a shirt your favorite aunt always wore and may therefore bring you an intense feeling of comfort, while catching a glimpse another paler green shade may make you feel anxious because it reminds you of the wall in your pediatrician’s office years ago when you were very sick.

Physical Changes also Exist

In addition to personal and emotional responses to color, the experts also report that people can also have a physical response as well. Vibrant colors like red and violet can cause actual changes in your body that can make you have more energy. The reason, according to researchers, is that your body pumps out more adrenaline in response to viewing these intense shades. And the impact can be significant. One study conducted in Europe even found that Olympic athletes wearing red seem to win more often than their blue-clad competitors with the same level of skill. Perhaps this fact inspires the clothing choice of American athletes like professional golfer Tiger Woods, who is usually photographed wearing red when he wins a major golf tournament.

Exploring the Rainbow of Possibilities

If you aren’t sure what colors serve you best and will help bring out your highest level of energy and happiness, you may want to experiment. A rainbow of color possibilities exists, and you just have to find the best hues that speak to you in the way you desire.

In order to better understand what shades make you feel your best, you may want to visit a paint supply store and browse through the many sample chips. Pay attention to colors that make your heart rate increase, make you smile, or bring on a special memory. These colors may be worth exploring further and even in finding new and exciting ways to incorporate these into your wardrobe and your life.