The Influence of Colour in Healing & Why More Black Women Should Ditch Black Clothing
Color has long been recognized as a powerful force in shaping our experiences and emotions. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, each color possesses unique qualities that can impact our mood and overall well-being. In various cultures and spiritual practices, colors are associated with the body's energy centers. And more research is now being undertaken in the Western laboratories to verify the powerful effects of color on mood, physical, psychological, and emotional ailments.
Growing up it was my grandmother and paternal aunties who had a profound effect on my sense of colour. My earliest role models dressed, in my childlike eyes, as butterflies. It was the 70’s and the riot of colour and texture was a delight to my eyes. My initial visit to the home of my most recent ancestors confirmed a love of colour on an even deeper level. The original tiny houses were now sun-faded, but the love of colour was boldly displayed across the front walls and verandas: jade juxtopositioned with coral; periwinkle blue with amber.
My love of colour is a fierce one. While I understand that we can all perceive it slightly differently I am at pains to explain that a periwinkle blue has more purple hues than a turquoise which holds more green. And how the addition of more white or black will change the mode of all primary and secondary colours. Whole-ism and the interconnectedness of everything is a philosophy and practice that I I have to find the correspondences in everything. One catagorising system that must hold fast though is my love of associating all colours with fruit or vegetables.
Color Heart Rate & Blood Pressure
Together with Faber Birren, Herbert EIves and Louis Cheskin our understanding of colour and how it effects us through its use in the marketing and advertising space has greatly expanded. Thanks to the early works of Wassily Kandinsky, a Russian painter and art theorist, who explored the psychological and emotional effects of color in his work. His book "Concerning the Spiritual in Art" (1912) delves into the connections between color, form, and spirituality, laying the groundwork for understanding color's expressive and emotional potential in visual communication.
It is however, "The Effect of Color on Physiological Response in a Simulated Public Speaking Test" by Anne G. Thomas that was published in the Journal of General Psychology in 1978 that also proved the connection between colour and its effects on the psychophysiological.
The study examines the impact of color on physiological responses, including heart rate and blood pressure, during a public speaking task and It investigates how different colors can modulate autonomic nervous system activity and arousal levels. The paper examines the effect of color on physiological response in a simulated public speaking test. The study found that red and yellow colours were associated with increased physiological arousal and that blue and green were associated with decreased physiological arousal.
The correlation with the Chakra Energy Centres is intriguing when we look deeper into the exact correspondences that the respective Chakras have physiologically and psychologically, especially when we understand the correlation between the higher chakras to psychological arousal and the lower chakras to more physical arousal.
Higher Chakras Energy Centres and Their Corresponding Crystals
White - Crown Chakra - Sahasrara (Violet/White):
The Crown Chakra represents our connection to higher consciousness, spirituality, and enlightenment. Violet and white are colors associated with the Crown Chakra. Violet stimulates spiritual growth, enhances meditation, and supports the nervous system. White signifies purity, clarity, and transcendence. Psychologically, violet and white foster a sense of unity, inner wisdom, and spiritual awakening. Emotionally, they promote a deeper connection with oneself and the divine. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes
Clear Quartz: Amplification of energy, spiritual connection, and clarity
Ametrine: Spiritual growth, harmony, and higher consciousness
Selenite: Divine connection, purification, and energy cleansing.
The crown chakra is associated with the note B, representing spiritual connection, consciousness, and transcendence.
Indigo Blue - Third Eye Chakra - Ajna
The Third Eye Chakra is associated with intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness. Indigo, the color attributed to the Third Eye Chakra, stimulates the imagination and deepens awareness. It may help alleviate headaches and support healthy sleep patterns. Psychologically, indigo enhances intuition, wisdom, and psychic abilities. Emotionally, it promotes inner peace, self-reflection, and enhances spiritual growth. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Amethyst: Intuition, spiritual awareness, and psychic abilities
Lapis Lazuli: Inner wisdom, intuition, and spiritual connection
Fluorite: Mental clarity, insight, and psychic protection.
The third eye chakra is associated with the note A, symbolizing intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness.
Light Blue - Throat Chakra - Vishuddha
The Throat Chakra governs communication, self-expression, and truth. Blue, the color linked to the Throat Chakra, is calming and promotes clarity of thought. It may help with throat-related ailments, such as sore throat, and support thyroid function. Psychologically, blue enhances communication skills, self-expression, and honesty. Emotionally, it aids in overcoming emotional repression, promotes self-confidence, and eases anxiety. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Blue Lace Agate: Communication, self-expression, and calming energy
Aquamarine: Clarity, truth, and soothing of the throat
Sodalite: Expression of thoughts, self-awareness, and intuition.
The throat chakra is associated with the musical note G, representing communication, self-expression, and authenticity.
Green - Heart Chakra - Anahata
The Heart Chakra represents love, compassion, and emotional balance. Green, the color associated with the Heart Chakra, is calming and soothing. It promotes harmony, healing, and rejuvenation. Physically, green is believed to benefit heart health, balance blood pressure, and support the immune system. Psychologically, it fosters love, forgiveness, and empathy. Emotionally, green assists in healing emotional wounds, reducing stress, and enhancing relationships. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Rose Quartz: Unconditional love, compassion, and healing.
Green Aventurine: Harmony, balance, and emotional well-being.
Rhodonite: Forgiveness, self-love, and emotional healing.
The heart chakra is associated with the musical note F, symbolizing love, compassion, and harmonious relationships.
Lower Chakra Energy Centres and Their Corresponding Crystals
Yellow - Solar Plexus Chakra - Manipura
The Solar Plexus Chakra is associated with personal power, self-esteem, and confidence. Yellow, the color attributed to the Solar Plexus Chakra, is energizing and uplifting. It can stimulate mental clarity, improve digestion, and support the immune system. Psychologically, yellow enhances focus, self-discipline, and optimism. Emotionally, it aids in reducing feelings of depression, self-doubt, and anxiety, while promoting self-worth and personal growth. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Citrine: Personal power, abundance, and confidence
Yellow Jasper: Empowerment, mental clarity, and optimism
Golden Tiger's Eye: Willpower, courage, and manifestation.
The solar plexus chakra is associated with the musical note E, representing personal power, will, and confidence.
Orange - Sacral Chakra - Svadhishthana
The Sacral Chakra governs our creativity, passion, and emotional well-being. Orange, the color linked to the Sacral Chakra, encourages enthusiasm, vitality, and self-expression. Physically, it may aid reproductive health, alleviate menstrual issues, and enhance digestion. Psychologically, orange inspires creativity, joy, and a sense of adventure. Emotionally, it can help release emotional blockages, increase self-confidence, and promote a sense of well-being. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Carnelian: Creativity, passion, and vitality
Orange Calcite: Emotional healing, joy, and motivation
Peach Moonstone: Emotional balance, sensuality, and intuition.
The sacral chakra is associated with the musical note D, symbolizing creativity, sensuality, and emotional expression.
The Colour Red Root Chakra - Muladhara
The Root Chakra represents our foundation and is associated with stability, security, and our connection to the physical world. Red, the color associated with the Root Chakra, is known to stimulate energy, increase vitality, and promote a sense of groundedness. It can be beneficial for physical ailments such as low energy levels, poor circulation, and lower back pain. Psychologically, red enhances motivation, courage, and assertiveness, while emotionally it may alleviate feelings of insecurity, fear, and restlessness. Corresponding earth (crystal energy) includes:
Red Jasper: Grounding, stability, and courage
Hematite: Grounding, protection, and strength
Smoky Quartz: Grounding, release of negativity, and relaxation.
The root chakra is associated with the note C, which represents stability, grounding, and physical energy.
Surrounding ourself with colour consciously in our homes, the clothes, jewellry and make up that we wear and even the food that we eat can have profound effects on our overall wellBEing. Nature is full of colour for a reason: to stimulate and heal us. Consciously using colour specific colours to our objectives is a powerful way to harness energy.
Colors have a profound impact on our mood, emotions, and overall well-being. Through an understanding of the chakra system and their associated colors, we can utilize specific hues to address physical, psychological, and emotional ailments. By incorporating the appropriate colors into our surroundings, clothing choices, and daily practices, we can harness the power of color to promote balance, healing, and personal growth in our lives.
Scientific Research in Colour
While the effects of color on mood and well-being are widely recognized, it's important to note that the scientific understanding of this phenomenon is still evolving. Some researchers have explored the psychological and physiological impact of colors, although more research is needed to establish conclusive evidence. Here are a few thought leaders who have contributed to this field:
Angela Wright, an internationally recognized color psychologist, who extensively studied the psychological and emotional effects of color. Her research focuses on the relationship between color, personality traits, and behavior. In her book, Angela Wright "The Beginner's Guide to Colour Psychology"explores the fundamentals of color psychology, discussing how different colors can affect mood, behavior, and well-being. She provides practical insights and advice on how to use color effectively in various environments. Her research paper: "The Impact of Color on Emotion: A Critical Analysis" examines the relationship between color and emotion, drawing on psychological theories and empirical evidence. Wright delves into the effects of specific colors on emotional states and provides a critical analysis of existing research in the field of color psychology.
Dr. Max Lûscher developed the Lûscher Color Test, a psychological tool that assesses an individual's psychological state and personality through color preferences. His work explores the connection between color choices and emotional well-being. In this influential book, "The Lûscher Color Test" Dr. Lûscher introduces a diagnostic tool that assesses an individual's psychological state and personalithe book explains the methodology behind the test and provides interpretations of color choices.
Additionally the research paper: "The Psychological Effect of Color" explores the psychological impact of color, examining how different hues can influence emotions, behavior, and well-being. Lûscher presents findings from his extensive research and discusses the implications of color preferences in psychological assessments.
Dr. Alexander Schauss has conducted research on the effects of color on human behavior and health. His studies have explored the impact of color on stress reduction, productivity, and performance in various environments. "Color and Human Response: Aspects of Light and Color Bearing on the Reactions of Living Things and the Welfare of Human Beings" explores the effects of color on human behavior, health, and well-being. Research Paper: "Psychological Effects of Color on Human Behavior" by Dr. Alexander Schauss: This research paper examines the psychological impact of color on human behavior and performance. Dr. Schauss discusses the effects of color on mood, productivity, creativity, and stress reduction, drawing from empirical studies and his own research.
Dr. Andrew Elliot is a professor of psychology at the University of Rochester and has extensively researched the psychological and physiological effects of color. His studies have explored how color influences mood, emotions, and cognitive performance. His book: "Color Psychology: From Basic Principles to Practical Applications" explores the field of color psychology, covering topics such as color perception, emotion, cognition, and behavior. Dr. Elliot contributes to chapters discussing the effects of color on mood and emotions. Additionally, in his research paper: "The Color-Emotion Connection: Current Directions and Future Challenges" Dr. Elliot and his co-author , Markus Maier explore the relationship between color and emotion, examining how color influences emotional experiences and expressions. They discuss current research trends, challenges, and future directions in understanding the color-emotion connection.
Dr. Stephen Palmer is a cognitive psychologist who has conducted research on the effects of color on cognitive processes, such as memory and attention. His work explores how color influences perception, information processing, and decision-making.
It's worth noting that while these thought leaders have contributed to the understanding of color psychology, the scientific community continues to explore and debate the extent and mechanisms of color's effects on mood and well-being. Therefore, further research is needed to establish a more comprehensive scientific understanding of the benefits of coloring. In "Colour: Design Theories and Applications" Dr Palmer and Nancy C. explore the theoretical foundations and practical applications of color in design. They discuss color perception, aesthetics, and the psychological and emotional effects of color in various contexts.
Research into Physiological Effects of Colour & How Colour Can Make Us Better
Color and Sleep
"The Effect of Room Color on Physiological, Perceptual, and Behavioral Responses: A Systematic Review" by Mohammad Hossein Mahdavi et al.: analyzes studies investigating the effects of room color on physiological responses, including sleep quality and duration. It highlights the impact of color on sleep architecture and discusses the potential implications for designing sleep-conducive environments. "The Effect of Room Color on Physiological, Perceptual, and Behavioral Responses: A Systematic Review" by Mohammad Hossein Mahdavi et al.
Color and Pain Perception:
Annemieke M. H. A. Konijnenberg is responsible for the research into the effect of colour and pain. "The Influence of Color on Pain Perception: A Systematic Review" by Annemieke M. H. A. Konijnenberg and her co-authors systematically explores the effects of color on pain perception and tolerance. It examines the role of color in modulating pain experiences, discusses the potential mechanisms involved, and identifies gaps in current research. Another source of study is "The Effect of Color on Experimentally Induced Muscle Pain and Cutaneous Pain Threshold" by Johan W. S. Vlaeyen and Anne Marie Kan.
Color and Physical Performance:
"The Effects of Color on Athletic Performance" by Andrew M. Lane et al.: This study investigates the effects of color on physical performance in sports. It examines how different colors can influence factors such as muscular strength, endurance, and reaction time, providing insights into the potential psychophysiological mechanisms underlying these effects. "The Effects of Color on Athletic Performance" by Andrew M. Lane et al.
"Effect of Different Visual Sensations Evoked by Lighting and Color Conditions on Physical Performance" by Hiroshi Nagashima et al.
Color and Appetite/Food Consumption:
"The Influence of Red Plates on Food Consumption and Perception of Flavor" by Nicola S. Buckland and David A. Rabin: This study explores the influence of plate color on food consumption and flavor perception. It investigates how red plates can affect eating behaviors, portion sizes, and taste perceptions, shedding light on the relationship between color and appetite regulation. "The Influence of Red Plates on Food Consumption and Perception of Flavor" by Nicola S. Buckland and David A. Rabin. "Effect of the Color Red on the Behavior of Deprived Rhesus Monkeys" by Alexander S. Golub and Joseph L. Corwin.
With so much amazing research underpinning the ancient knowledge of our ancestors around the science of colour and its healing resonance it is worthy of consideration in a holistic health plan. Why not you investigate how you feel in specific colours. Incorporating healing colours into your wardrobe can be a fun and meaningful way to embrace their potential positive effects. Here are five ways to do so:
Colourful Accessories: Add pops of healing colors through accessories such as scarves, hats, handbags, or jewelry. Opt for accessories in hues that correspond to the specific healing qualities you desire. For example, wear a green scarf to promote balance and harmony or a blue bracelet for calmness and communication.
Colour-Blocking: Experiment with color-blocking techniques by combining different healing colors in your outfits. Create visually appealing ensembles by pairing complementary or analogous healing hues. For instance, wear a yellow top with a purple skirt or a blue blouse with green pants to infuse your outfit with a vibrant energy.
Statement Pieces: Invest in statement pieces of clothing in healing colours. Choose a dress, blazer, or coat in a color associated with the specific emotional or physical benefits you seek. For example, opt for a pink dress to evoke feelings of love and compassion or a red coat to boost confidence and vitality.
Layering: Use layering techniques to incorporate healing colours into your outfits. Combine different garments in complementary or contrasting hues to create visually appealing and harmonious looks. For instance, layer a green cardigan over a white shirt or wear a purple camisole under a yellow sweater.
Intentional Accessories: Choose accessories with specific healing colours and symbols. Look for items like healing crystal jewelry, color-infused socks, or gemstone bracelets that align with the energy of the colors you desire. These intentional accessories can serve as gentle reminders throughout the day.
Patterns: West African textiles are rich with colours and patterns that bring a smile to one’s face and lift the heart. Why not express your inner joy by adding these special patterns and prints to your wardrobe.