It may sound like magic or something you’d find in a sci-fi novel, but believe it or not there is some science to back up the proposed healing properties of the color blue. Here is what color experts, psychologists and cultural references tell us and a few tips to incorporate it into your home.
The anciet Egyptians and Chinese have often practiced chromo-therapy. This is the practice of using colors to heal. It can also be referred to as light therapy or colorology and is stilled used today as a holistic or alternative health treatment. This is a modern version of Edwin Babbit’s The Principles of Color Therapy from 1878.
“Blue ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world.”
It is believed to soothe illnesses and treat pain. The Buddhists recommend the blue lapis lazuli stone to bring inner peace. Use a light hue of blue to create a relaxing bathroom.
The lapis lazuli stone was also used by ancient Egyptians to dye the cloaks of royals and priests which indicated their status as gods. We still see this hue as somehow exotic and regal, so they work well on feature walls or in small spaces.
In parts ofEurope, exterior pieces were painted blue to protect the house from evil. One Polish custom dictated that all houses for women about to be married be painted blue. You could always try painting your door blue to add a splash of spice and create a conversation piece.
In 1932 aCaliforniapsychologist preformed a study that determined the effect of light on blood pressure at aNew Englandhospital. Staff members of the hospital were exposed to blue and red lights for a half an hour each. The blue light resulted in a fall in blood pressure, while the red light resulted in the blood pressure to rise. You can use blue in your bedroom to create a calming effect, but be sure to pair it with rich warm woods to keep it from feeling cold.
In 1901, Picasso was influenced by the suicide of a good friend which resulted his Blue Period. He used almost always blue palettes in his work and these pieces were unpopular with the general public. While blue is often viewed as a cold depressing color, you can add a hint of red into the blue to make them warmer. Unlike cool blues, warm blues advance towards you, making you feel like you’ve made a cozy choice. Use them in a social space such as a living room.
Blue is also known to suppress the appetite. Some weight-loss programs go so far as to advise eating off of a blue plate. You can always try a blue dining room if you’re wanting to slim down.
Blue is often used to decorate offices because research has shown that people tend to be more productive in blue rooms. A 2009 study done by theUniversityofBritish Colombiashows that blue boosts your ability to think creatively, and that children test higher in rooms with blue ceilings. Following this advice makes blue a perfect color choice for a home office or study.
Feng shui used to be all the rage and according to this energy flowing design principle blue is a water element that should be used in the east (health and family) and southeast (wealth and abundance) sides of your home. It is believed to nourish the wood elements of these areas.
Dark blue is also good to use in the bedroom because it considered to deliver a deep calm and serenity.
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