As we come to the end of week 7 in lockdown, my motivation levels have plummeted and my frustration levels are on the accent. Groundhog Day is setting in. I’ve stopped revelling in the bubble of my home and family unit: we are getting a bit fed up with each other now and we’re yearning to get back to our lives before Covid-19. Some days it’s hard to be upbeat and my productivity is low, bordering on pathetic!
What I’ve come to learn is that wearing colour has a remarkable effect on my mood and energy. Too much time spent in neutral-toned loungewear does nothing for me. I need colour to add a bit of zing and zest to my daily routine.
Colour can be a powerful mood enhancer and different colours convey different messages that create specific responses – both in the wearer and other people. Carl Jung, first examined Colour Psychology and unlocked the ‘secret language of colour’; establishing that certain colours trigger neurological responses in the brain causing the hypothalamus gland to release hormones.
So I thought it would be a good idea to focus on the colours that induce positivity, well-being and productivity – as many of us could do with a bit of a boost right now!
Red
If you need some energy and motivation, then red it the colour to wear. Even just putting on some red lipstick will have a positive effect – try it! Many studies have been conducted on the power of red which is why it is worn by many sports teams. Red signifies confidence, determination and strength. It is the most dynamic and noticeable colour, widely used in many circumstances to attract attention and take action. And if you feel like you need to ignite a bit of passion between you and your OH, then of course wear red!!!!
1. Jumpsuit: Top Shop 2. Top: & Other Stories 3. Skirt: H&M 4. Wedges: H&M 5. Sandals: Office
Yellow
The colour of sunshine and therefore the most joyous colour, yellow evokes feelings of vitality and optimism. An instant ‘lift’, yellow is a positive colour which will help you feel confident and emotionally strong. Yellow offers clarity and stimulates left-brain thinking so it’s great to wear if you want to figure something out or need creative inspiration.
1. Dress: H&M 2. Jacket: & Other Stories 3. Sandals: New Look 4. Skirt: & Other Stories 5. Top: French Connection
Green
Green represents health, well-being and nature. It is a balanced colour; on the one-hand restful and calming and on the other hand, motivating and adventurous. Because green is soothing and mostly seen in nature, it can help to alleviate depression and anxiety. It also offers a sense of hope and renewal. If you need to let go of negative emotions such as anger or grief, wearing green can help.
1. Top: Monki 2. Top: H&M 3. Culottes: Monsoon 4. Handbag: John Lewis 5. Shoes: Top Shop 6. Skirt: Monsoon
Blue
Classic Blue is the Pantone Colour of 2020 which couldn’t be more apt for our current situation. According to the Pantone Color Institute “Instilling calm, confidence and connection, this enduring blue hue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.” Resonating stuff!!! From a physical standpoint, blue has been proven to reduce stress by slowing the breath and heart rate and releasing Oxytocin (the feel-good hormone). Darker blues convey intelligence and authority.
1. Dress: Top Shop 2: Cardigan: & Other Stories 3. Dress: Monsoon 4. Mules: Top Shop 5. Sunglasses: Top Shop
Pink
Pink is associated with compassion and nurturing. It is thoughtful and affectionate, but when we wear pink it reminds us to be caring to ourselves first! Pink is a colour that offers hope and shows tenderness, empathy and kindness from the person wearing it. Brighter pinks are more dynamic and will encourage you to get on with things. Softer pinks are soothing and healing.
1.Dress: & Other Stories 2. Blazer: H&M 3. Trousers: H&M 4. Pumps: John Lewis 5. Mules: M&S
I hope you have found some useful information in this post about the various colours and how they can impact your mood and also be helpful to those around you. Being mindful about the colours you wear, can most definitely change the way you feel. If you wake up dreading the day ahead, then have a think about what colours might improve your mindset. I’d love to know how you get on with this – please do leave me a comment below.
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