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The Psychology of Yellow

Some of the key characteristics that are often associated with the color yellow include:

  • Warmth:

Yellow is a bright color that is often described as warm.

  • Difficult to read:

Yellow is also the most fatiguing to the eye due to the high amount of light that is reflected. Using yellow as a background on paper or computer monitors can lead to eyestrain or vision loss in extreme cases.

  • Frustration:

Yellow can also create feelings of frustration and anger. While it is considered a cheerful color, people are more likely to lose their tempers in yellow rooms and babies tend to cry more in yellow rooms.

  • Energetic:

As seen in the following quote, yellow is often perceived as being a high-energy color. It is often used in situations and products intended to create a sense of excitement or energy. It is bright and immediately grabs the eye. It can seem fresh, intense, overwhelming, or even brash and forceful in its energy. Yellow can also increase metabolism.

“Fully saturated yellow is only good for brief exposure, because its stimulating effect is so powerful that it can build up emotional energy quite quickly. I know that I would probably go nuts in a house with LEGO yellow walls. Though it should be noted that a less saturated yellow, such as that found in whipped vegetable spread (faux butter) is mildly pleasing and cheery.”

“Yellow makes me feel cheerful and energized. I love the bright sunny color and the way it makes me feel. I feel warm like summer. Perhaps sometimes startling, but then that is what energizes me.”

  • Yellow Can Be Aggressive

While it can be an energetic color, this intensity can also have a downside. Sometimes yellow can come off as very aggressive and even confrontational. In great quantities, people may be left feeling irritated or even angry when surrounded by yellow.

“I agree that there is a level of aggression and frustration associated with yellow. The walls of my school are all yellow and since the new building opened, more fights have occurred in the hallways where there is the most amount of yellow. Also, some of the classrooms that have yellow in them seen to be associated with more frustrated students.”  

“I find yellow to be a highly irritating color. When I’m in a yellow room, my agitation level increases whether I was in a good mood before I walked in it or not. One reason I believe I find it so annoying is that I’m an introvert and yellow is a very exposing and in your face type of color which are traits most introverts would naturally have an aversion to. Yellow is definitely an extrovert’s color.” 

  • Attention-grabbing:

Since yellow is the most visible color, it is also the most attention-getting color. Yellow can be used in small amount to draw notice, such as on traffic sign or advertisements.

  • Yellow Is Cheerful

For many people, yellow is seen as a bright and cheerful color. Advertisers may use it to not only draw attention, but also to evoke a sense of happiness.

“I had a math class room that was painted bright yellow half way through the year. It completely changed the atmosphere and everyone’s grades seemed to go up. Our math teacher joked it must be the new paint job, but I entirely believed it was. It gave a cheery atmosphere and the lessons were far more light and enjoyable!”

“The color yellow exudes brightness, light, vitality, energy, optimism, willingness to grow and outshine. Sun stars sunflower are the objects that mostly are associated with the color yellow.”

  • Yellow Is Complex

Of course, the effects of yellow can be highly varied and complex. Not everyone responds to this color in the same way. While some people might find it bright and cheery, others may find it grating and obnoxious. Some may associate it with a warm summer day, while to others it might be reminiscent of bad memories or associations.

“I like yellow. To me it’s a happy color associated with flowers and sunshine. But our kitchen is painted yellow and I find that my fiance who has a short temper almost always loses it in the kitchen. He also becomes much more impatient and argumentative. I have always suspected that it is the color of the walls. Guests also tend to eat their food faster at the kitchen table than when we entertain in the dining room (white) or outside.”

  • How does yellow make you feel?
  • Do you associate yellow with certain qualities or situations?

While the color yellow can evoke a lot of different psychological reactions, it is important to remember that these responses are often unique to the individuals. Some responses, such as the tendency to find yellow difficult to read, are more universal. Other associations are often cultural and even specific to each person thanks to differing backgrounds and experiences.

From: Very Well Mind

The Colors of Hinduism

Hindu deities are depicted in colors that symbolize many positive attributes. Reminiscent of such natural elements as the earth, the sky and the sun, many colors have become symbols representative of the functions and characteristics that these elements possess. Therefore, as a religion so in tune with nature, the symbolic meaning of these colors has been adopted and integrated into Hinduism. From the saffron robes of holy men to the blue skin of the deities to the white clothing worn by mourning widows, certain colors are used specifically for their symbolism in Hinduism.

Red

In Hinduism, the color red symbolizes positive concepts. For wedding ceremonies, brides wear red clothing, put red dye in their hair and place a red dot on their foreheads because red represents purity. Since clay earth is red and produces many harvests, the color red is also representative of fertility. As a bold color, red symbolizes bold emotions and characteristics, such as passion, sensuality, power and strength. The deities who wear red, such as the goddess Durga, possess the respectable qualities that the color represents.

White

White, which is composed of many colors, symbolizes a range of notions in the Hindu religion. It is worn by deities who are equated with peacefulness, innocence and purity, such as the goddess Saraswati. The cleanliness of the color white symbolizes new beginnings and rebirth. Alternatively, white is also symbolic of death in Hinduism. Widows wear white while mourning because it is a reflective color that represents their need to reflect back to the world and detach themselves from society while grieving.

Green

Green items, such as leaves, are used in many Hindu prayer rituals because the color is representative of the natural world that the deities created. Since the deities are associated with the color green, it is symbolic of the happiness, peace and harmony that the deities bring to Hindus. Green also represents fertility, life and rebirth that are found in nature. Ultimately, green is considered a color that symbolizes the same tranquility and calmness evident in the deities and the natural world.

Saffron

Reminiscent of the color of fire, saffron is composed of shades of golden-yellow and orange. In addition to being similar to the color of fire, saffron is also symbolic of the cleansing and purity that comes from burning objects. Hindu monks wear saffron-colored robes to represent their mission to cleanse and eliminate impurities and evil from the world. The color saffron is also representative of lightness and wisdom, qualities that the monks possess.

Blue

A number of Hindu gods, such as Vishnu, Krishna and Shiva, are depicted as having blue skin. Therefore, the color blue represents the characteristics that many of the deities possess, such as bravery, goodness, determination and protectiveness. Blue is also a color found in such natural elements as the sky and water which makes it symbolic of the peacefulness of nature. Hindus view dark blue as being representative of calmness and intuition.

Yellow

Yellow is symbolic of learning and knowledge because it is a color often depicted in the clothes of wise Hindu deities, such as Vishnu, Krishna and Ganesha. As the color of the sun, yellow also represents the characteristics of the sun, such as light, warmth and happiness. Furthermore, due to the abundant presence of the sun during spring, yellow symbolizes new beginnings and developments.

Found at: Classroom.com

Chinese Dragons and Color


Unlike dragons of Western lore, fearsome symbols of evil and chaos, the Chinese dragon represents nobility, wisdom and prosperity. Eastern dragons are intricately connected to the seasons and the elements and are often associated with one of the four cardinal directions. They also can be categorized by color, as each color bears a symbolic meaning and has associated connotations within Chinese culture.

Blue and Green

In Chinese culture, the colors blue and green are associated with nature, serenity, growth and health. Blue and green dragons symbolize the approaching spring, evoking the clear skies and new plants that the season brings. These colors also are representative of the East and indicate Eastern dragons. Other Chinese associations with blue and green include healing, rest, prosperity and harmony. In Chinese culture, there are four animals that represent the cardinal directions with the Green Dragon represents the power of the East.

Black and White

Black and white are key colors on the Chinese spectrum, representing the balance of the black yin, which is negative, passive and feminine, and the white yang, which is positive, active and masculine. Black dragons are associated with winter and the North, while white dragons represent autumn and the West. In China, the color white is associated with purity as it is in Western cultures, but it also symbolizes mourning and mortality, suggesting that the white dragon functions as an omen of death. The black dragon is known for its power and vengeance and is often connected to storms.

Yellow and Gold

Yellow dragons have been called “superior” and “the most revered of the dragons” because they represent the Emperor and the imperial family. Even in the 21st century, yellow is a color associated with solidity, reliability and warmth, and it is set aside for royalty and those of higher social class. Gold dragons share many of these assets and are recognized as symbols of wealth, wisdom and compassion. During the Chinese New Year holiday, the opening dragon dance begins with the arrival of a regal Golden Dragon held aloft by a group of men.

Red

In China, red is the traditional color of good fortune and happiness, and it is often used in large celebrations, such as weddings. The red dragon is associated with luck, fire, passion and the heart. It is the dragon of summer and the South. Other Chinese associations with the color red include vitality, enthusiasm and creativity. During Chinese holidays like the Chinese New Year, a red dragon can be a focus along with equally lucky red envelopes of money.

Found at: Classroom.com

Making Colored Fire

A campfire is magical. How the coals glow and the flames flicker and the sparks pop and shower, its mesmerizing. But, you can make it even more magical with these simple tricks. It will get old if you use these all the time, but an occasional surprise makes a campfire at that special place or time something to be remembered.

Chemicals

Adding a small amount of chemicals to a hot burning fire can have an ‘Ooooh-aaaah’ effect. It’s important to do these only after all cooking has been done on the fire and when there is little wind so the smoke can rise up rather than into campers’ faces.

You may acquire these chemicals in a grocery or dry goods store, in the laundry or cleaner section. Find copper sulfate in swimming pool supplies. Epsom salts, borax, and calcium chloride may be found with laundry/cleaning supplies.

Copper Chloride, Strontium Chloride, and others my be best found at fireworks supply companies. Practice before using them at a campfire so you know how much to use and how to best apply for maximum effect.

Creating Colors and Special Effects:

  • Copper Chloride ~ BLUE flame
  • Borax (laundry) ~ LIGHT GREEN flame
  • Copper Sulfate (tree root killer for plumbers) ~ GREEN flame
  • Strontium Chloride ~ RED flame
  • Potassium Chloride (water softener salt) ~ PURPLE flame
  • Calcium Chloride ~ BLUE flame
  • Lithium Chloride ~ PINK flame
  • Alum ~ GREEN flame
  • Sodium Chloride (table salt) ~ ORANGE flame
  • Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom salts) ~ WHITE flame
  • Sugar ~ sprinkle into fire for TINY SPARKS
  • Powdered Coffee Creamer ~ throw a handful into the flames above the fire for small SPARKLY FLASHES
  • Flour ~ toss a small amount into flame to make a FLASH FLAME
  • Iron filings ~ toss a small bit into flame to make GOLD SPARKS
  • Powdered aluminum ~ toss a small bit into flame to make SILVER SPARKS
  • Magnesium shavings ~ toss a small bit into flame to make very bright SILVER SPARKS
  • VIOLET ~ 3 parts Potassium sulfate, 1 part Potassium nitrate (saltpeter)

So, then how do you get the chemicals into the fire? Well, throwing the powder in gives a burst of color, but then quickly dies out. You might want to do this for special effect when telling a story. But, to make the colors last longer, you can create wax patties. Don’t use these patties if you want sparks, just toss the dry chemical on.

How To Create Wax Patties

  • Melt old candle wax in a double boiler.
  • Get a bunch of small paper dixie cups.
  • Pour about 1/4 inch of chemical into each cup.
  • Pour melted wax into the cup to just cover the chemical and quickly stir it with an unfolded paperclip or other small stir rod. This is to thoroughly coat all the chemical.

Let thoroughly cool and then peel or cut off the sides of the paper cup. I leave the paper bottom on. Toss one of these patties into the hottest part of the fire and it will melt and the show begins!

Mixing different chemicals will not make a new color. Just add one single type at a time or put different kinds in different places.

From: Camp Fire Dude

Chase Away The Winter Blues

Do you experience winter blues? An effective way to change your moody outlook is to brighten up your life with color. Research has proven that color therapy, or chromo therapy, is a natural way to lift your spirits. In particular, the following colors have power to lift the spirit, combat cabin fever and chase away those winter blues.

  • Yellow

Yellow captures the joy of sunshine, communicates happiness and stimulates your mind. It helps to reduce depression, giving one a sense of hope, reminding us that spring is just around the corner. It is important to expose yourself to morning sunlight as early as you can.

  • Orange

Orange evokes excitement, enthusiasm and is an energetic color. It is joyful, playful, creative, and social color.

  • Red

Red stimulates the body metabolism, and encourages one to engage in activity. The color red fights depression and gives one the energy to get up and do something.

Chase away the winter blues by introducing these powerful colors in your apparel, food you eat, and your home environment. So hurrah for Yellow, Orange, and Red.

Source: Balanced Women’s Blog

Winter Cellophane Color Sunbath

One can receive healing energy by sitting in front of a sunny colored glass window.

We all can have the luxury, during the cold winter months, to purchase colored cellophane at our local art store and instantly create a colored glass window for an energy sunbath. All we need to do is tape cellophane on the lower half of a window. A 36 inch square sheet of your selected color is ideal, but a smaller size will work.

This exercise requires a sunny day. Also, you will need to determine what color you want to use.

  • Red – Strengthens physical energy, Helps alleviate colds, flu, and bronchitis. Aids circulatory system.
  • Orange – Relieves muscle strain. Helps gallstones, boosts immune system. Helps detox body.
  • Yellow – Good for stomach, bladder, kidneys, liver, and spleen. Also helps rheumatism. Relieves alcohol poisoning.
  • Green – Influences thymus gland and immune system. It is calming, helps anxiety, and exhaustion. Influences heart, pulmonary, and circulatory systems.
  • Light Blue – Very healing for children. Helps headaches, and inflammation. Affects respiratory system, throat, teeth, and thyroid.
  • Indigo – Influences the pituitary, endocrine, and immune systems. Affects throat, ears, and eyes. Helps lung problems.
  • Violet – Affects nervous system, skeletal system, aids in building bone, and brain activity. Helps rashes and wound healing.

Next sit in front of the window so that the sun is streaming through the cellophane onto your body. Breathe deeply for 10 minutes or longer.

This technique is used by color therapists to help heal physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual conditions.

Sources:

Color Me What?

Color Therapy is an alternative style of therapeutic practice that utilizes the vibration and frequency of color to aid in healing. Are you in pain, feeling anxious, or fearful? Here is an exercise to help establish the color therapy protocol you need TODAY:

Sit with your eyes closed and visualize your situation.

Think of a color that soothes what you are feeling. Don’t worry if it takes a couple different examples, it is important to listen to your body and discover what works best for you. What is today’s color?

Take a deep breath and imagine pulling this color throughout your body. When you exhale, imagine the (anxiety, pain, fear, anger) leaving your body. Do this a few times until you to feel a shift in your body and begin to feel better.

Imagine a glass filled with liquid in your chosen color and drinking it down. That color is filling up your body…you begin to feel (calm, safe, happy, and any pain minimizing).

Continue visualizing your chosen color for 3 – 5 minutes. Thank this color and carry its energy with you for the rest of the day.

Remember any color’s energy is available to you whenever it is needed.

From: Balanced Women’s Blog

Super Rainbow Candle Healing

Candle therapy can be used to unite the powers of mind, body, and spirit. Lighting a colored candle releases energy into the atmosphere. The color vibration is absorbed into the auric field and transmitted into the physical body. It is an interesting fact that the colors of our seven major chakras are also the rainbow colors.

The following exercise called, Super Rainbow Candle Healing:

Place a candle for each of the seven chakra colors in a semi-circle in front of you starting from left to right (red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, indigo, and purple). The candles can be placed on the floor or on a table.

Sit quietly for a few moments in order to prepare yourself to receive. Light the candles, starting with red (Root Chakra) and ending with purple (Crown Chakra).

Beginning with the central green candle (Heart Chakra), gaze upon each flame for one minute at a time. Then move to the red candle at the left followed by the purple candle on the right. Continue by going to the orange then to the indigo. Complete the process by going to the yellow and finishing with the light blue. This will take seven minutes.

While the rainbow candles remain burning, embrace all the colors. Accept the guidance from your higher-self as to which colors need revisiting. Continue for another ten minutes, finishing with the green candle (Heart Chakra) to balance your system.

Extinguish the candles in order starting with the red ending with purple (It is recommended to use candle snuffer or home-made tin foil cone). In candle healing it is suggested not to use your breath to blow out healing candles.

Sit quietly for three minutes with your eyes closed, to complete healing.

Sources:

Rainbow Healing

Sit in a comfortable chair. You will only need to practice this visualization technique for 3 to 5 minutes in the beginning. Once you are comfortable with the technique and know which color you need, you can individualize the color and work with only one at a time.

Breathe deeply and evenly, feeling the cleansing power of oxygen permeating your body’s cells as you inhale, and the release of carbon dioxide waste as you exhale. Conscious, deep breathing cleanses the blood and cells of the body.

Visualize the Crown Chakra (at the top of your head) and begin to imagine it opening as though it were the lens of a camera. Ask the Universe for all the color rays of rainbow energy to flow down through this chakra. These rainbow colors are the red, orange, yellow, green, rose, blue, indigo, violet, silver, gold, white, and black rays. There is also ultra-red and ultra-violet. State your intent for healing, then invite the colors to flow from the Universe and go to where each color is needed.

Visualize them entering your bloodstream through the arteries and the cells of your entire body. This only takes a few moments to move throughout your body.

If you have a specific problem you wish to work on, ask for the colors to infuse that particular area of the body. The body listens to every thought you think, so just by stating what you want, it will happen. This thought/body connection is very important to know, because your every negative thought makes negative things occur, and every positive thought you have, takes the body to higher levels of consciousness.

When completing this exercise, you will feel more balanced. Remember to drink plenty of water and continue practicing color healing visualization.

Found at: Balanced Women’s Blog

Clouds of Color Healing Technique

This Hawaiian healing technique is called ”Clouds of Color,” and is from Dr. Serge Kahili King’s book “Instant Healing.” It is a very simple exercise using your imagination and intention.

First familiarize yourself with the healing energy of the various colors, here’s a simple list: Healing Colors.

Next, select the color of cloud you want to use for healing and begin to visualize this cloud wrapping around all of you or the part of your body that needs physical, emotional, or mental healing. Intent, simply means imagining a specific healing effect that you want the color cloud to have.

For example:

  • Surrounded by bright orange or yellow can increase your strength and endurance.
  • A soft green or blue cloud can reduce swelling or relieve tension.

You can use color clouds and imagination for any healing needed!

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Color! What a deep and mysterious language, the language of dreams. ~ Paul Gauguin
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