Battling those winter blues may be as simple as slapping a fresh coat of paint on the walls. It isn’t the fumes that kick up those feel-good vibes, though. It’s all about the colour, and Para Paints colour adviser Melanie Rice says “colour therapy” is key in beating the winter doldrums.
“Colour is a powerful tool to create mood in a room, and the notion of colour therapy takes this one step further,” she says. “Experts say the weather outside has a direct impact on our mood and behaviours, yet certain colours can counteract feelings of sadness, particularly in people who are easily affected by climate.”
That’s why colours including red, green, blue, yellow and neutral cream shades are ideal in fighting off the cold, and Rice says each carries its own emotional boost.
Red: The perfect colour for intimate conversations, while its intense shade instantly warms a room.
Green: A calming colour reminiscent of nature and summertime relaxation, while delivering harmony and inner clarity.
Blue: Muted blues usher in the calming effects of crashing waves and a clear sky.
Yellow: An optimistic colour promoting memory and good judgment, but stick to buttery, subdued shades rather than the neon variety for optimal enjoyment.
Neutrals: Whites with warm undertones are known as uplifting shades that cut stress.
With between 2% and 4% of Canadians fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder each winter, Rice says a fresh coat of paint can go a long way to kickstarting a more chipper disposition. “With the right mix of colours on your walls, you may just wonder where the winter went.”
