#28 What colour makes you happy?

Spending a few days in one of the most beautiful places in the UK (IMHO) The Lake District, inspired me to write this blog about the impact the colours of nature can have on our mood. I set myself the challenge of taking photos to represent the vibrant and varied array of colours in nature (and picked my faves to bring colour to this blog).

We do take our beautiful planet for granted and when I think about the sights that make me feel happy or inspired or hopeful, they are not represented by just one colour. Colour plays a huge role in the stimulation of our senses which is why it is so important in branding and marketing. Although the perception of colour is influenced by our culture, gender and personal preferences, there are some common associations with emotions that can affect our mood.

RED

Red evokes emotions of passion and energy and is also associated with danger. It is my favourite colour and is what I wear when I want to feel confident. Red makes me think of a field of poppies or juicy red apples hanging from branches.

BLUE

Blue is associated with relaxation and security but can also symbolise cold. Doesn’t water taste so much more refreshing if you drink it from a blue glass? Blue makes me think of crystal clear rippling lake, or a tranquil, cloudless sky.

YELLOW

Yellow is one of the most vibrant and happy colours and is often used to make things stand out. Yellow makes me think of a bright, swaying mustard field or a hazy midday sun or a slice of lemon (in a gin and tonic obvs).

GREEN

Green is the colour of nature so makes you think of growth, renewal and hope. It is also associated with health. Green makes me think of a dense, mossy forest or rolling, grassy hills.

ORANGE

Orange is zesty and zingy and makes us feel optimistic and bold. Orange makes me think of a fat, juicy orange (my favourite fruit) or the warm glow of a setting sun or falling, autumnal leaves.

WHITE

White is linked to purity and innocence and evokes sincerity. Is there anything better than getting into a fresh white fluffy robe after a warm bath? White makes me think of an expanse of crisp, silent slow or an elegant swan.

BLACK

Black is often associated with death and evil but is also the colour of sophistication. Black makes me think of dark, menacing storm clouds or a glossy, majestic crow.

So if you are feeling down, get some colour into your life! Wear a bright colour, light a colourful candle or eat some colourful food.

p.s. Colour also makes food yummier

On the topic of colours in nature, life is too short to eat beige food without a hint of colour when a variety of colours looks so much more inviting. I love eating a rainbow of colours on my plate - this is a picture of a buddha bowl that I recreated based on one that I had on holiday. Delicious.