In the Mood

The designers of this psychiatrist's office selected a gray/blue color scheme to create a soothing effect.

Liven up the mood in your office by adding color. For years, scientists have studied the link between colors and moods. While there is still much to learn, we know people react strongly to colors.

We see colors because of the way the eye absorbs light and converts it into another form of energy — energy that affects and is felt by people with and without sight. In fact, our preference over one color or another may be related to its individual impact.

Red stimulates, increases heart rate and brainwave activity. Pink sooths and can relax the muscles. Orange stimulates the appetite and reduces fatigue. Yellow stimulates memory and may help you find those lost eyeglasses. Green produces calm, relaxes the mind and body and is helpful for controlling the kind of anxiety associated with impulsive eating. Maybe that avocado green refrigerator isn’t such a bad idea!

Blue relaxes and calms and lowers heart rate and blood pressure. Have a strong preference for a color? More than likely, it’s what your body needs — a pleasant and appealing ‘thank you’ from body to brain.