Colours have a profound effect on individuals and can affect us on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level. We look at how you can choose the right colours for your home, to create a positive and happy environment

Colour or chroma therapy is an alternative method of healing, through the use of colours. When we gaze at colours, different energies are absorbed, as each colour has its own frequency and vibration. “We are constantly surrounded by a free flow of colours, through nature, the clothes that we wear and the space where we live or work. At different stages of our lives, we feel attracted to or repelled by different colours, depending on our emotional and mental needs,” says Amisha Mehta, an artist and colour therapist.

“If we do not receive a balance of the seven colours in the spectrum, our metabolism can be affected. For example, the lack of natural sunlight, can cause lethargy, tiredness and depression. There is no such thing as a good or bad colour. While a colour can have beneficial qualities, the same colour can also have a detrimental effect on us. Usually, too much of any colour will tip the scale. Thus, one must be careful while designing a home’s interiors and choose colours that aid the well-being and harmony of all the members residing in the house. Colours should be clear, bright or light. Muddy or dirty colours, reflect the negative aspect of that colour. There is nothing wrong with deeper rich tones, if they are also not murky in appearance,” suggests Mehta.

The importance of colours in Vastu Shastra

The sun is the source of light and helps to sustain life on our planet. There is a direct relationship between the sun and the science of Vastu Shastra, as each direction has one color that influences it in a positive way, points out Mumbai-based Jayshree Dhamani, a Vastu and astrology expert. “Sunlight appears to be gold in colour but it contains seven different colours – violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. Each colour has a different wavelength. Suitable colours in the right direction, enhances the health and prosperity of the home’s inhabitants. If the wrong colours are used, then, it creates stress and conflicts in the minds of the inmates,” Dhamani adds.

How to select the right colours for your décor

It is better to choose warm colours in rooms where there is a lot of activity, such as the living room and dining room. For example, instead of red, one can use shades of burgundy, wine, terracotta, etc., as they are not overpowering. “A colour scheme that focusses on only one or two colours, can cause an imbalance in energy. It is not only the wall colour that has an impact, but also the colour of furnishings, paintings, plants and lights. So, the home should have a variety of colours,” says Mehta.

Yellow is the colour that is closest to sunshine and is regarded as cheerful colour. So, try and incorporate it in some way at home. People who are depressed, can add a dash of orange colour to their room, to develop optimism. “Someone who has tensions, body pains and sleeplessness, can opt for blue-coloured walls or curtains, to get relief. Similarly, people who do meditation and spiritual practices, can use violet colour in the room for calmness. One can also use lamps of different shades, to add specific colours to a room, as and when needed,” adds Dhamani.

Ideal colours for different areas of the house

• Ceilings should always be white or in off-white colour, as it reflects light.
• Natural shades like green (which symbolises life and growth), yellow (stability), orange (cheerfulness) and blue (aids concentration), are recommended for children’s rooms.
• For the temple area, it is best to use purple or lavender, as it is associated with spirituality, peace and wisdom.
• Orange evokes excitement and enthusiasm and is apt for an exercise room.
• Avoid excessive use of black and grey, as it can give a depressing feel.
• Red helps in increasing appetite. So, add subtle touches of red on the dining table, with red flowers or red table linen.
• Bedrooms should be done up in soothing colours, such as pink, peach, light yellow, green and other light colours.
• The colour pink is associated with romance. Similarly, red is the colour of passion but avoid too much of it in the bedroom, as it leads to aggression.