Energy and Color

The human mind remains one of the greatest mysteries that humankind has yet to fully understand—and its relationship with color is one of those mysteries.

To begin, we must understand that color is closely tied to light. Light can manifest in two forms: as photons (particles) and as light waves (energy).

Building on the previous point, let’s understand that what we perceive as color is actually reflected light.For example, if a wall appears blue, it’s because it absorbs all other wavelengths of light and reflects the one between 450 and 500 nanometers.If it reflects the entire light spectrum, we perceive it as white; if it absorbs the full spectrum, we perceive it as black.

So, color is essentially reflected light—which is, in turn, energy.It’s only logical that it affects us in different ways.This phenomenon was studied by Albert Einstein in his work on the photoelectric effect.Today, that principle is most commonly applied in the field of solar energy conversion.

Below are some of the benefits associated with each type of color:

1. RED: Often used to grab attention, it’s associated with passion, danger, energy, and action. It's a highly emotional color and can also stimulate appetite.

2. ORANGE: Represents creativity, adventure, excitement, and success. Many refer to it as the color of children.

3. YELLOW: Conveys happiness, positivity, and optimism—but also serves as a warning color. It should be used with care, as overuse can cause visual fatigue.

4. PINK: Closely linked to femininity, unconditional love, playfulness, but also immaturity.

5. GREEN: Symbolizes nature and money, growth, fertility, health, and generosity. On the negative side, it's often associated with envy.

6. BLUE: The most preferred color globally. Connected to the sky and the sea, it represents stability, harmony, peace, calm, and trust. However, it can also be linked to sadness and emotional coldness.

7. PURPLE: Associated with power, royalty, luxury, wisdom, and spirituality.

8. WHITE: Represents purity, goodness, cleanliness, and humility—though in some parts of the world, it carries entirely opposite meanings.

9. BLACK: Symbolizes elegance, mystery, power, and sophistication. On the downside, it can evoke sadness or anger.

10. GRAY: Neutrality and balance. Silvery tones can help ease symptoms in ill individuals. However, in excess, it may lead to depression and emotional numbness.

11. BROWN: The color of wood, earth, and certain stones. It’s linked to comfort, security, and nature—ideal for spaces meant for relaxation.

The use of color is one of the most powerful tools in sales and marketing worldwide.Take McDonald’s, for example—major fast-food chains often use red and yellow to attract customers and stimulate appetite.Meanwhile, insurance agencies and banks tend to use blue to evoke feelings of trust and calmness in their clients.

So now you know—if you're about to paint your home or your business, take some time to explore what message you want your brand to convey, or what emotions you want to feel in your living space.(Interested in learning more about architecture and color? Click here.)