A glimpse of how colours are connected to human behaviour

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This article was written by Qaqamba Falithenjwa.

Have you ever thought that your behaviour and reactions can be influenced by colours? Do you notice how sometimes when you’re feeling a certain way you normally want to match your emotions with the colours of your outfit?

This is because colours have an impact on how we feel and they can resonate with our emotions. This is called colour psychology.

Verywell Mind, an online publication that focuses on mental health and wellness defines colour psychology as the study of how colours influence human behaviour. It further claims that colours are potent instruments for communication that may be used to indicate activity, set mood, and even affect how the body works. “Physiological effects such as elevated blood pressure, accelerated metabolism, and eyestrain have been linked to specific colours.”

The publication further stated that although colour psychology is a relatively recent topic of study, ancient societies have long been interested in it. “Certain colours, like blue and red, have universal meanings that impact our feelings and spiritual activities. Verywell also claims that cool colours like blue might inspire sadness or indifference, but warm colours like red can evoke warmth and comfort.

The online magazine that caters to mental health and wellness issues, Happiful delved more into how people react to different colours and why that happens.

Blue and sleep: According to a study conducted by the University of Surrey and Heinrich Heine University Dusseldorf, 30 minutes of exposure to blue light can even lower blood pressure, possibly even more than the effects of some blood pressure medications. Blue is said to be a relaxing colour that can help us sleep better.

Red and intensity: The MasterClass online publication, states that the strongest moods and emotions are evoked by the primary colour red. “The colour red has a strong effect on the human body and is associated with love, passion, rage, and danger. It has a stimulating impact that raises one’s strength and heart rate. Red is a colour that in colour therapy helps in the discharge of bad feelings and lingering anger.” According to a study published in the journal Emotions, red might quicken and intensify your reflexes because we link it with being alert, an example would be a red traffic light and warning signs.

Green and tranquillity: According to the online magazine mentioned above, “Green found in nature can help us be more balanced, improve our health, and encourage our growth and renewal processes. ” A 2016 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, states that women who live in or close to green areas have better mental health and a higher life expectancy.

Purple and creativity: The MasterClass online publication states that throughout history, purple has been associated with wealth, authority, and royalty. “Purple colour schemes are frequently associated with imagination, creativity, and inspiration.” Lavender and other pastel purple tones are considered soothing colours.

Yellow and joy: Yellow is an energetic colour that inspires emotions of happiness and optimism since it is a light and bright colour, states MasterClass.

This article first appeared on Bona.