Make Way For Traditional Homes With Classic Blue For June 2020

Colour Stories

Choose Classic Blue for your home and watch the magic unfold! Read on to know all about it.

Colours have a remarkable ability to influence one’s mood or behaviour. When Pantone released its official colour of the year 2020, Classic Blue- the world of fashion, food, beauty and home decor quickly deciphered ways to incorporate this colour in their products. But little did we know, the intend of choosing this classic hue was a gradual return to everything traditional and simple.

Classic Blue encourages us to look beyond the obvious, to pause and reflect, challenging us to think more deeply, to connect with people and things around us in a more raw and natural way.

As we enter the half-way mark to the year, we can’t help but embrace the idea of everything traditional and simple. This lockdown has forced us to be mindful and take a break from our chaotic, jam-packed lives. After years of earning a living, working a 9 to 5 job, looking after our families, being in rush constantly, Friday highs and Monday lows, this time of quarantine is actually a gift. And a reflective Classic Blue tone that fosters resilience and perception can help build a stable foundation for our homes.

For home interiors and design, Classic Blue can bring a sense of serenity and peace, offering refuge. And during an uncertain time where we are forced to be cooped up inside our homes for an indefinite time, incorporating this hue into our homes can reap many benefits. You can paint an accent wall in the colour, get inspired by Berger Paints Colour Catalogue or switch up the kitchen cabinets. If you have moved to work from home during this time, adding this colour to your home office or working space can help create a relaxing yet productive atmosphere. If you’re not ready to commit in a grand way, start small. Add textiles, prints or fresh flowers like hydrangeas or Blue Lotus. This colour can work great in the bedroom too since it is suitable for creating a composed atmosphere wherein you can feel at peace and rest.

Classic Blue is a colour that is not quite navy, far from the sky blue, it is blue that is dark, deep and has an almost earthy undertone. Pantone describes the colour as non-aggressive, easily relatable and a solid and dependable shade meant to provide refuge. The institute chose the colour in response to the frenzy and anxiety most of us live with today.

Colour Trivia

Colour Facts For June 2020

1. If you have noticed your friends or family take over social media to share photographs of stunning sunsets in the past month, you are not alone. Such twilight hues can be spotted during the pre-monsoon season, according to meteorologists. This stunning colour combination of orange and red adorning the sky is commonly known as Buddha Rays or in more scientific-terms, crepuscular rays. It occurs when there is moisture left in the air after a thunderstorm in surrounding areas. There is a refraction of the sun’s rays over the sky and the moisture or water particles act like a prism. Next time you witness this spectacle, you will know the science behind the picturesque sky!
2. Egyptian Blue, also known as calcium copper silicate, is one of the first artificial pigments in human history. Its typical blue colour comes from one of its main components, copper- that ranges from a dark to light hue, depending on its composition. In Egyptian belief, blue was a very important colour since it was considered as the colour of the heavens and associated with water and the Nile. Egyptian Blue was used widely in paintings, tombs and even mummies’ coffins. In the 19th century, Egyptian Blue was rediscovered. The excavations in Pompeii revealed that many wall paintings had used the colour.
3. The prevalence of pink bakery box, in fact, has a psychological reason behind it. If you have a sweet tooth, you must have definitely come across plenty of boxes and packaging in this colour. Be it neatly-stacked cupcakes, doughnuts or chocolates, be it in a movie or television show (Mad Men fans would know!), pink dessert boxes are hardly a coincidence. According to research, sweets and desserts taste better in pink boxes or when served on pink serve ware. Pink is also said to stimulate appetite and increase sugar cravings. So, the next time you see a pink box, you know that the bakery owner has put some thought in branding and colour psychology.

Colour Quotes For June 2020

• I don't paint dreams or nightmares, I paint my own reality.

  - Frida Kahlo

• It's a small world, but I wouldn't want to paint it

  - Steven Wright

• There is no beauty without colour

  - Essie

Colour Tips For June 2020

1. Remember that strong smell when you get your home painted? It is from chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which have also been linked to cancer. The good news? Berger Paints have low and no-VOC paints, which make them healthier for you and your family. Choosing these paints for your walls can improve indoor air quality drastically (and your health too!). Anti-bacterial paint like Berger Paints Silk Breathe Easy kills 99% of bacteria, making it a great choice for hospitals, kids room and kitchen walls. The paint is also proven to keep the indoor air clean and has anti-pollution properties. Green Label certification means you are not exposed to harmful and toxic chemicals. If you’re looking for healthy and eco-friendly paints, this one is a no-brainer.
2. Our homes are supposed to be a safe haven where we can relax. Unfortunately, we wind up bringing home all the germs and bacteria through dirty hands, shoes and clothing. Even if your home looks clean, it might still have contaminants that can affect your health. High-touch areas like walls require sanitisation and cleaning, just like the floor or any other surfaces. To keep your walls bacteria-free, get them painted with Ghar Ka Sanitizer-Silk Breathe Easy by Berger Paints. The paint is proven to kill 99% of bacteria and helps the home interiors be safe and healthy.
3. Make a small room appear larger with a green accent wall. Incorporate wooden furniture and jewel-tone accessories for a modern, fun colour combination. These nature-inspired colours will remind you of the forest, nature and everything green and lush and can help create a relaxing ambiance in any room. An earthy palette can be given a sophisticate makeover with the right accessories. Jewel-tone accessories enhance the look and support the strong shades wonderfully.

World Of Colours

Colours & Emotion For June 2020

1. Is the lockdown period making you lethargic and low? For most of you who are not used to working from home, you could feel your productivity lagging and see a drop in your energy levels. If you are wondering how to keep the energy intact while working from home, you can try a powerful colour like red. Keep your energy levels high with the colour red as it is a colour that can save your day. If you are lacking motivation and need a boost of confidence, you know which colour to go for!
2. Looking for a colour to help you feel stronger during the lockdown period? Purple can help bring clarity to the mind in times of reflection. Opt for darker purples to slow down your pace and listen to your inner voice. Bright purples such as violet can give you the inspiration and vision you need to look ahead to the future. Add pops of purple either as an accent wall or in decor pieces in your living space to reap its benefits.

Colours & Fashion For June 2020

Fashion in time of COVID-19 is something that no one has ever seen before! The face mask has gone straight from curiosity to commonplace, in a matter of few weeks. Along with being a safety gear, it has become a fashion accessory, with people wearing a rainbow of creative and colourful face masks to go to grocery stores and run errands. Fashion enthusiasts won’t seem to let COVID-19 dampen their spirits, with most sporting animal print and funky patterned face masks. Looks like the usage of masks is not likely to go away anytime soon and will probably become part of the ‘new normal.’ There are masks available to suit every taste and liking. Paint your imagination. Choose one that suits your personality.

Colours & Gems For June 2020

1. Lepidolite
   Do you struggle to find inner peace? If your life is hectic and your mind full of worries, the pink and purple gemstone known as Lepidolite can help. Apart from being the zodiac stone for Libra, it is one of the best mood stabilisers in the world of gemstones. It contains high amounts of lithium, which is also used in anti-anxiety medication. Lepidolite also aids in overcoming any kind of emotional or mental dependency, helping in the release of addictions. It helps with deep emotional healing and reduces stress and depression.
2. Danburite
   This gemstone is known as Danburite, a gentle yet powerful crystal that gets its name from Danbury, Connecticut, north of New York City, where it was first discovered. It is believed to emit the purest vibrations, radiating beautiful energy all around. It is also known to release stress and worry. The gemstone is also beneficial when you are unwell although it is particularly effective on spiritual and emotional levels. If you have been suffering from disturbed sleep, you can gain peace by placing a piece of Danburite under your pillow. Considered a powerful healing stone, it has a strong detoxifying action. This gemstone occurs in colours like pink, blue, brown and yellow. In general, gemstones are a deeply personal choice that reflects the facets of your personality, but they can still be picked based on colour trends.

Colours & Nature For June 2020

1. Gulmohar
   What you are looking at is a flamboyant tree, considered by some as the world’s most colourful tree. It is known as Gulmohar, scientific name Delonix regia. It was discovered in the early 19th century in its native Madagascar by botanist Wensel Bojer. The tree is covered with exuberant flaming-red flowers for several weeks in the month of May and June. The individual flowers are four spoon-shaped with petals about 3 inches long and one upright comparatively larger petal which is marked with yellow and white. The fern-like leaves comprise of small, individual leaflets that fold at dusk. The Gulmohar tree gets 30-40 feet tall but its beautiful wide-spreading canopy can be wider than its height.
2. European Green Woodpecker
   What you are looking at is one of the most fascinating birds on this planet! Commonly known as the green woodpecker, this bird has been given many folk names such as yaffle, yaffle bird, yaffingale, yappingale, laughing Betsey, weather cock, rain bird, wet bird, nickle, Jack Eikle and nicker pecker! It is unmistakable by its wings that are dark green in colour with a yellow rump that is visible in flight, which serves as a beautiful colour combination and a sight to the eyes. The bird has a distinctive ‘laughing’ call that is a clear giveaway of its presence in the surroundings. One of the most interesting facts about the bird is that its tongue is so long that it coils behind its skull to fit inside its head! It is not just a colourful character but a fascinating one too!

Decor

Your Guide To Avoiding Time And Money-Consuming Mistakes With These Expert Tips

Your guide to avoiding time and money-consuming mistakes with these expert tips

If you are not sure about the best paint colour for your walls, it is important to not skip the research. The colour you end up choosing will have a major effect on the look and personality of the room and the quality of your paint job. There are a lot of factors you should take into consideration before you decide to paint. To break down the process for you, our experts have put together important things you need to consider before you finalise on the colour palette for your home walls.

Get inspired:

If you have decided to paint your home but unsure about the colours, start with a reference point. Look at photos of similar rooms and spaces on Pinterest or home and decor magazines and derive inspiration. Think of colours you are drawn to and already have in your home. This will help establish a starting point.

Basic rules to follow:

• If you’re thinking of more than one colour on the walls, stick to not more than three colours. If you are going with one bold colour, the second and third should be neutral to give your eye a break.
• When deciding on the colour, start with the boldest shades and then work your way towards light and neutral colours.
• Paint can be a unifying element. Before you decide on the wall paint colours, consider how it will look with adjoining rooms. The colours should work in harmony.
• The way a room is lit has a dramatic impact on how the wall colour looks. Each light temperature pulls out a colour undertone, which is the reason why the same room can look vastly different during the day and with the night lights on. Once you have finalised the colour, test it out with a patch test in different lighting before making up your mind.
• The paint finish is another component you need to keep in mind. Satin finish is a great choice for high-traffic areas since they are easier to clean. Semi-gloss finish has a subtle shine and works well in kitchens and baths. High-gloss finish, like the name suggests, are glossy and can make a room look classier instantly. If shine is not your thing, opt for matte or flat finishes. The same colour will look different in various finishes so do your research before you decide to paint your walls.

Designing With Wood Floors

Wood floors can add warmth and timeless appeal to any room

Hardwood floors are a classic decorating choice. They are not just durable but can add warmth and timeless appeal to any room or space. This fabulous flooring option is a favourite for interior designers and homeowners alike. When decorating with wood floors, keep the following in mind:

Follow the light

In a room with dark wooden floor, bring in some light with lighter cabinet colours, white walls or neutral rugs. Allow the natural light to penetrate the room and on the flooring, the stark contrast between the dark floor and the natural light will bring out the beauty of stained wood.

Use rugs

Bold and patterned rugs can look particularly stunning on a wooden floor. Since wood is also a hard surface, minimise any discomfort by adding rugs for added comfort. You can also layer area rugs to define sitting rooms in open spaces.

Out with the old

If you are trying to improve the appearance of old wooden floors, it can feel daunting. Since wooden flooring often cost a fortune, the thought of painting it or removing it entirely can make most people nervous. You can revive old and worn out wooden floor with wood paint and finishes. With various colours and finishes to choose from, ranging from dark to light wood, you will be spoiled for choices. Instead of replacing the entire floor, painting wood floors is easy on the pocket and looks like brand new. To achieve a good result, explore wood paints and finishes by Berger Paints India.

Pop of colour to create drama

Break up the monotony by pairing bright toned furniture with flooring that has lighter stain.

Take a clue from this cheerful corner’s bright coloured furniture and accessories that blends in beautifully with the wood floor. The dramatic walls and fresh plants results in a layered room with right amount of depth and pizzazz.

Tips To Make Your Home Feel More Relaxing

Set the tone for a calm and harmonious space you will never want to leave

A home that is disorganised and chaotic can disrupt the energy flow. However, there are simple steps that can make your home more relaxing and calming. For home interior ideas to make your home a relaxing abode you will never want to leave, read on:

Bring the outdoors inside

Nature is proven to have a calming effect on mood. If you love spending time in nature, you can bring elements from the outside world, indoors. Neutral tones, wood pieces, indoor plants and nature-inspired colours like green (like the forests), brown (like the earth), and blue (like the ocean and sky) can help build a connection to nature inside the home.

Natural lighting is everything

A good source of natural light can make a space glow and bring in a sense of serenity. Ensure the room gets plenty of natural light throughout the day. And for artificial light, opt for dimmers and soft light in the evening to create a relaxing ambient room.

Introduce a calming colour palette

Colours can influence our mood greatly. Bright colours are energising while muted colours are calming. To achieve a relaxing vibe in the room, opt for light and muted tones. If neutrals like white, grey or brown are not your thing, you can also derive inspiration from nature and use tones like sunset orange, mossy green or serene blue to achieve a similar effect. One of the easiest and cheapest ways to introduce colour in a room is by painting the walls. Opt for soft and subtle hues and ensure the colour flow throughout the room is natural and effortless.

Engage the senses

Touch, smell, sound: all of these senses can help promote a feeling of calmness and relieve stress and anxiety. The more you engage the senses, the higher impact you can create. Introduce scents like lemongrass, lavender and orange blossom. Sounds of nature or waves or smooth jazz and blues can be particularly soothing. Opt for fabrics and linens made out of natural materials like linen, cotton and wool.

Less is more

It is hard for a cluttered room to feel relaxing. Closed and disorganised spaces can create feelings of anxiety and irritability. Wide windows, open concepts and plenty of free space that flows effortlessly will create a sense of spaciousness. Consider your furniture placement and ensure to keep it grouped in a way that makes it comfortable and intimate, without taking up too much space.

Colours & Ancient Sciences

Feng Shui For June 2020

Lockdown making you feel blue? Read on for some handy Feng Shui tips for good vibes in your bedroom.

Feng Shui Your Bedroom

Not being able to step outdoors can be extremely frustrating during the lockdown period. It can cause stress and anxiety. The no-fixed schedule of your daily routine can also disrupt your sleep cycle. Fret not, there is Feng Shui to your rescue. Since you can’t step out and try some of our Feng Shui home exterior ideas to negate stress, how about you focus your energies on welcoming positivity inside your home, especially your bedroom for a peaceful night’s sleep?

Location of bedroom: To start off, the bedroom requires a sense of calm. It should ideally be located as far as possible from the entrance.

Mirrors: Do you have a large mirror in your bedroom? Bedrooms are for sleeping and relaxation. Mirrors are yang energy and reflect the chi. Place a scarf or cloth over it at night to calm the chi.

Electronics: Most of us charge our smartphones next to our beds. It is recommended that you charge your electronics outside your bedroom. If you can't, just place a handkerchief over them at night and make sure to turn Bluetooth off! Also, don’t watch TV in your bedroom. If you can’t make this modification, place a cloth over it at night as well.

Under-bed storage: Keep the space under your bed clean and clear of storage. We know this can be challenging for small spaces so if you must keep things below your bed, go through everything and make sure it is in working condition. The goal is to have the chi swirl above and below you like a fluid circle while you sleep.

Poison arrows: Do you have beams in your ceiling? Are they vertical or horizontal over your body when you lay in bed? These can be harmful to restful sleep and your overall health.

Colour choices: Adding shades of greens, blues, lavenders, peaches and other soothing tones can make a huge difference. Introduce colours in the room that make you happy and relaxed.

These home interior decor tips are key to catching some zzz’s and to get you through this challenging phase — and beyond.

Reiki For June 2020

With COVID-19 outbreak, it has become necessary that we strengthen our immunity more than ever before! Here are some Reiki tips to boost immunity and protect ourselves.

Reiki for Immunity

Reiki helps the body to release tension and stress. In fact, studies have revealed that Reiki goes beyond simple relaxation. It boosts the strength of white blood cells (WBC). You can make your immune system strong by practising Reiki at home with special attention to the thymus gland.

The thymus is located in the upper chest in an area between the heart and throat. There is a chakra that helps move life force energy through the thymus gland. You can strengthen the flow of energy through the thymus by combining your breathing and Reiki technique.

This process is easy. You need to create a pathway for Reiki to travel through your breathing. This process will nourish your entire body.

Take a look at the CKR symbol. CKR stands for Cho Ku Rei and is the first Reiki symbol.

• Start with inviting Reiki energy to activate and strengthen the thymus gland and boosting the immune system.
• Place your right hand over the thymus and the left hand over the solar plexus. Allow the energy to flow and heal you. Stay in this position for approximately 10-15 minutes.
• Leave your left hand on your solar plexus and tap on your thymus in a circular motion in a clockwise direction with three fingers (index, middle and ring fingers) of your right hand. Make 10-20 tapping circles. This is believed to activate the thymus and strengthen your immune system.
• Place both your hands on the thymus for about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to express your gratitude.

Keep in mind not to tap the thymus area if you have fever. You can use the Reiki symbol 1 – CKR to perform this technique. When performing step 2, draw the CKR symbol on your thymus.

The process described above can be very powerful and it is a good idea to practice this when you have time to rest afterward.

This is a simple yet powerful technique to boost your immunity.

Vaastu For June 2020

Cooped up with your family indoors due to the quarantine? Make the most of this time with your family by making pleasant memories together. Read on for some useful Vaastu tips.

Vaastu To Strengthen Family Bonds

Add the magical touch of yellow

This lockdown period is a great time to bring harmony into your family life. Get ready to reconnect with your family and strengthen those bonds, both now and for the future with a delightful shade of yellow in your living room. You can hang yellow curtains in the southwest direction or paint the wall in a shade of yellow. This can control anger and impulsive behaviour of those living in the house.

Images of your happy family

Happy images of your family members can help bring happiness to your family life. Place them on the south-west wall to strengthen relationships. Avoid family photos on the eastern or northern wall.

Water fountain

Family relationships are being put to test in the time of quarantine. A water fountain is one of the popular Vaastu remedies. Display a portable water fountain to bring in the energy of the water element. It is believed to welcome wealth and prosperity as well. When you place the water fountain in the east direction of your home, it helps to improve your social connectivity. However, don’t forget to clean it regularly and also avoid keeping it in your bedroom.

Bedroom

Family relationships can come under strain during this longer-than-usual “holiday”. A good Vaastu in your bedroom is important to manage it. If your bedroom is cluttered and not arranged properly, it can create rifts and quarrels within the family. Keep the bedroom fresh, clean and well-organised.

Indoor plants

Green plants are very good for relationships and family bond. North area of the house is auspicious to keep plants. It can help you build trust and love in the family.

No more quarantine quarrelling! These were some simple yet powerful home decor according to Vaastu to bring harmony in your family ties. Try them out to reap the benefits.