The POWER OF COLOUR

Did you know that surrounding yourself with the right shades can work wonders for your wellbeing?

- FAYE M SMITH

Do you feel more confident when wearing a certain shade, or positive after walking in green spaces? It could mean that colour is having a bigger effect on your wellbeing than you realise. And harnessing the power of chromotherapy, also known as colour therapy, could bring even more benefits.

'Each colour creates a different physical and emotional response,' says colour specialist Mark Wentworth*. Learning which ones you respond positively to forms the basis of colour therapy - and it's easy to try at home. But how we respond can be very personal, there isn't a one-colour-fits-all.

'On one level, colour is instinctual, and on another it connects us to our own personal memories and experiences,' says Mark. 'Most people love something such as sky blue as it has an overall calming effect. Maybe it reminds us of summer holidays and times of carefree daydreaming, yet for some it's depressing, cold and detached. Still get shivers when you see the shade of your old school uniform? This could be why!

So, there could be some trial and error when finding what's right for you. 'But be brave, and experiment,' says Mark. 'Learn to understand your own colour language and then watch your life transform.' Here's how.

A WARDROBE OF PERSONALITY

The easiest way to try colour therapy is through what you wear. The good news? You don't have to go head to toe - just a pop of colour will work. 'Dressing for how you feel promotes an overall confidence, which creates a positive approach from other people,' says Mark. 'If you have a goal, you can booby-trap your wardrobe with colour to attract what you want.' He says: