Color psychology. Check how colors affect people

The psychology of color is gaining popularity. It is actively used by marketing and advertising specialists to influence the consumer choice of customers. However, knowing how individual colors affect a person’s well-being turns out to be an extremely useful “tool” in many other areas, such as interior design. We are talking not only about the arrangement of houses and apartments, but also office and public premises, including clinics, hospitals and other medical institutions. See what exactly the colors “say” and what their power is.

Blue is soothing and relaxing, and also promotes creativity.

Blue is reminiscent of nature. It is associated with a cloudless sky and sea. So it is not surprising that this color causes a lot of positive emotions. It has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. It is relaxing and soothing. Reduces blood pressure. Helps to find inner balance, relieve tension and regulate the circadian rhythm.d. According to research conducted by Naz Kay and Helen Epps, it evokes emotions such as peace, happiness, comfort, and hope. Other studies have shown that prolonged exposure to blue light increases the activity of the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision making, impulse control, organization and ordering of information from the environment, goal setting and concentration, among other things. . As a result, it improves cognitive performance and improves performance on tasks related to working memory and the ability to think creatively.

Red is stimulating and energizing

Red color attracts attention, raises blood pressure and mobilizes to action. Accelerates metabolic processes in the body. This stimulates the appetite. Therefore, it is often used in advertising of food products and concerns. Moreover, “fiery” colors increase the secretion of adrenaline, that is, the hormone of survival, which is responsible for a quick reaction in stressful situations in response to a threat. It has a caffeine-like effect. At the same time, prolonged exposure to red has been proven to irritate and provoke anger. It also contributes to aggressive behavior (especially in men).

Yellow improves mood and gives optimism

Yellow also stimulates the nervous system. However, it acts much softer than the red described above. Adds energy, motivates to action and sharpens the senses. It inspires and encourages creativity. That is why it is often used in offices and conference rooms. This color is perceived as joyful, optimistic and warm. It evokes many positive associations associated with the sun, holidays and summer vacations. It is believed to relieve stress. In addition, it reduces fatigue. However, the yellow color used in the bearing can be easily tiring and annoying.

Green - relaxation and energy in one

Green has many faces. On the one hand, it relaxes and soothes the senses, like blue or dark blue. Restores lost balance. Looking at this color has a positive effect on the organ of vision. Reduces eye strain after a day at the computer or TV.. It is worth noting that electronic devices emit light that contributes to various unpleasant ailments, such as a feeling of sand under the eyelids, burning and tearing, as well as visual impairment. On the other hand, green can also revitalize and encourage activity. It all depends on the shade of the color. The brighter the tone, the stronger the effect.

Black causes sadness and fear

Black carries many negative connotations. It is mostly associated with loss and mourning. It evokes emotions that are usually considered negative (sadness, anger, fear, etc.). Often this means rejection. It is generally depressing and contributes to depression.. In a fashion-related environment, it is often seen as a symbol of timeless elegance. Interestingly, people who struggle with low mood have been shown to have trouble distinguishing between contrasting colors (mainly white and black). They see the world in shades of gray.

White gives a feeling of freedom and security

White is a symbol of innocence, purity and perfection. Increases the feeling of freedom and security. This gives a kind of “breath”. Calms emotions and allows you to get rid of internal tension. It can be perceived as cool, and sometimes even cold. This color is considered universal and is widely used not only in arranging home comfort, but also in office, retail or strictly service premises.

What is chromotherapy?

Chromotherapy is nothing more than “treatment with flowers”. This method of influencing the human psyche is used primarily in working with people with intellectual disabilities. However, these therapies always complement each other. It should be emphasized that the perception of colors is a very subjective matter. This largely depends on our personal experience, as well as cultural conditions. In Europe, certain colors evoke different associations than, for example, in Asia. Evidence confirming the legitimacy of the above thesis is, among other things, the white color, which in China symbolizes mourning (while in the “old continent” black is associated with death).

Sources:

• Rivera, M.A. (2001). Perception and meaning of color in various social groups. Inv. Univ. Mult, 3, 74-83

• Kaya, Naz and Epps, Helen. (2004). The connection between color and emotion: a study of college students. College student magazine. 38

• Kolek Sofia (2010). The Psychophysics of Color, Proceedings of the Electrotechnical Institute, vol. 244, pp. 10–13.