color symbolism

"Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions." --Pablo Picasso
"Of all God's gifts to the sighted man, color is holiest, the most divine, the most solemn." --John Ruskin

Meaning of the Color Blue Blue is the overwhelming "favorite color." Blue is seen as trustworthy, dependable and committed. The color of sky and the ocean, blue is perceived as a constant in our lives. As the collective color of the spirit, it invokes rest and can cause the body to produce chemicals that are calming; however not all blues are serene and sedate. Electric or brilliant blues become dynamic and dramatic, an engaging color that expresses exhilaration. Some shades or the overuse of blue may come across as cold or uncaring. Blue is the least "gender specific" color, having equal appeal to both men and women.
How the color blue effects us physically and mentally* Calming and sedate* Cooling* Aids intuition

Meaning of the Color Green Green occupies more space in the spectrum visible to the human eye and is second only to blue as a favorite color. Green is the pervasive color in the natural world that is an ideal backdrop in interior design because we are so used to seeing it everywhere. The natural greens, from forest to lime, are seen as tranquil and refreshing, with a natural balance of cool and warm (blue and yellow) undertones. Green is considered the color of peace and ecology. However, there is an "institutional" side to green, associated with illness or Government-issued that conjure up negative emotions as do the "slimy" or bilious greens.
How the color green effects us physically and mentally* Soothing* Relaxing mentally as well as physically* Helps alleviate depression, nervousness and anxiety* Offers a sense of renewal, self-control and harmony
Meaning of the Color Yellow Yellow shines with optimism, enlightenment, and happiness. Shades of golden yellow carry the promise of a positive future. Yellow will advance from surrounding colors and instill optimism and energy as well as spark creative thoughts.
How the color yellow effects us mentally and physically* Mentally stimulating* Stimulates the nervous system* Activates memory* Encourages communication
Meaning of the Color Orange Orange, a close relative of red, sparks more controversy than any other hue. There is usually strong positive or negative association to orange and true orange generally elicits a stronger "love it" or "hate it" response than other colors. Fun and flamboyant orange radiates warmth and energy. Interestingly, some of the tones of orange such as terra cotta, peach or rust have very broad appeal.
How the color orange effects us mentally and physically* Stimulates activity* Stimulates appetite* Encourages socialization
Meaning of the Color Red Red has more personal associations than any other color. Recognized as a stimulant red is inherently exciting and the amount of red is directly related to the level of energy perceived. Red draws attention and a keen use of red as an accent can immediately focus attention on a particular element.
How the color red effects us mentally and physically* Increases enthusiasm* Stimulates energy* Encourages action and confidence* A sense of protection from fears and anxiety
Meaning of the Color Purple Purple embodies the balance of red simulation and blue calm. This dichotomy can cause unrest or uneasiness unless the undertone is clearly defined at which point the purple takes on the characteristics of its undertone. A sense of mystic and royal qualities, purple is a color often well liked by very creative or eccentric types and is the favorite color of adolescent girls.
How the color purple effects us mentally and physically* Uplifting