The Colour Psychology Of Green For May 2020

Colour Stories

Do you know how to use colour psychology to your advantage during tough times? Read on to know all about it.

Colour is a language we all speak. It is powerful, it is universal. It can alter a living space. It can enhance a certain mood and excite the senses. In fact, even purchasing choices are made within seconds, driven by colour alone.

Owing to the global health crisis of COVID-19, many governments have issued lockdown in most countries at present. People are locked up in their homes, itching to go out. There are so many people talking about cherishing the spring season outside –the lush green trees and the chirping birds. Don’t fret, if you are one of them! Don’t let the coronavirus lockdown dampen your spirits.

Our solution is to get your fingers green. Out of all the colours out there, the colour green is believed to bring forth new ideas and prosperity. You can bring the outside indoors by using lush, green plants and create a small home garden for yourself. It is sure to bring new life to your indoors and add the much-needed positivity to your living space during these challenging and gloomy times. Your home garden and balconies are a place of refuge, now more than ever. If you have one, use this time to spruce it up.

If you are not lucky enough to have a patch of greenery outside, then you can create plenty of it right inside your home, on your window sills and balconies. If you have limited space, there are many compact plant varieties that are perfect for small spaces. Look for words like mini, dwarf or patio on seed packets and plant them in tiny containers or a small raised bed. All you need to do is make sure that the space gets at least six to eight hours of sunlight a day.

You can try your hands at growing tender tomatoes, dwarf chillies and strawberries as well if you have always wanted to grow your own salad-friendly veggies. You can also opt for english ivy, spider plants, azalea, aloe vera, areca palm or dracaena if salad-friendly veggies are not what you fancy.

Houseplants can transform your surroundings and help bring a little of the garden into a home while also improving the air quality. Now, isn’t that a win-win situation?

To conclude, developing a green thumb is a fabulous way to pass time during this quarantine and might be just what you need during the coronavirus crisis.

As Pedro Calderon de la Barca rightly said, “Green is the prime colour of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises.”

Colour Trivia

Colour Facts For May 2020

1. It was during quarantine from the plague, that Isaac Newton started experimenting with his ‘celebrated phenomenon of colours’. He conducted an experiment to understand how light can be split up into a spectrum by sending it through a prism. This experiment demonstrated for the first time how a prism breaks up white light into the spectrum of colours and puts the spectrum back together into white light. Our modern understanding of colours and light today is based entirely on his findings with the prism experiment.
2. Butterflies can see not just the colours that humans can, but also a range of ultraviolet colours that are invisible to the human eye. If unique colour combination fascinates you, you will be surprised to know that that butterflies themselves have ultraviolet markings on their wings to help them identify potential mates. They also have some interesting defence mechanisms wherein they can camouflage to render themselves invisible to predators. Some even try the opposite strategy, displaying off vibrant colours and bold patterns. Since bright coloured insects are often poisonous if eaten, predators learn to avoid them.
3. Blue is one of the most popular and loved colours universally. Both men and women have an appreciation for different hues of blue, be it teal, sapphire or navy. The colour represents loyalty, intelligence and authority and you will see a lot of major businesses use it in their logos. But, it is not just humans who are attracted to this alluring shade. Going by research, mosquitoes are said to be attracted to the colour blue, sometimes twice as much. Since the colour blue, especially in darker hues retains heat, mosquitoes are more likely to be attracted to it. If you want to avoid mosquito bites, apart from using an insect repellent, it is a good idea to wear light coloured clothing since it is more likely to reflect light and mosquitoes are less likely to notice it.

Colour Quotes For May 2020

• I am happy to be alive, as long as I can paint.

  - Frida Kahlo

• The world today doesn't make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?

  - Pablo Picasso

• Shadow is a colour as light is, but less brilliant; light and shadow are only the relation of two tones.

  - Banksy, Wall and Piece

Colour Tips For May 2020

1. When it comes to ensuring that your paint job is a success, the first step begins with the right room preparation, including cleaning, sanding and priming walls before painting. First, inspect the walls and clean it using a sponge and warm water. If you have any mould or dampness issues, consult Home Shield Waterproofing Experts. Never paint over dampness thinking it will solve the problem. It will grow through the new paint, which will make maintenance even more difficult, and you might have to redo the entire painting again. To ensure the painting goes smoothly, sand the walls in case of any rough patches or unevenness. And lastly, use a good primer to get the most out of your paint.
2. If you are planning to upgrade the look of your home with a fresh coat of paint once quarantine is over, use this time to research the right type of paint, finish and colour. The type of paint you choose is just as important as the colour and can have a major effect on the vibe of your room. When it comes to the sheen, remember, the glossier the paint is, the easier it is to clean up. However, if you have walls with lots of imperfections, select a flat or matte paint. While choosing a colour, keep in mind where the room is located, how large or small the room is, the lighting in the room and the existing colour combination of furnishings and décor accessories.
3. Another handy painting tip to remember if you are planning to DIY home wall painting is to prepare your painting kit and take a moment and consider your tools. To get the most out of your paint, you will need the right paint brush and roller. Natural-hair bristles work best with oil-based paints and synthetic bristles are better with latex and water-based paints. If you have a large, flat area to paint, rollers are great options. As with brushes, when you are painting with latex or water-based paints, make sure you use synthetic roller covers.

World Of Colours

Colours & Emotion For May 2020

1. Colours help us express ourselves in the best possible way. Did you know that colouring can be therapeutic too? It is not just a fun way to unwind but can also help us focus. Just like children's colouring books, there are also adult colouring books out there and you can take your pick from books on mandalas to your favourite TV shows and characters - there is something for everyone. If you have a printer at home, you can print various designs available online and get crafty - or meditative! Wouldn't you like to get your hands on it? We sure would! Get ready to colour your way through life with your favourite colours and best colour combination!
2. Colours and emotions are closely linked. There is no time like the present for easy mood-boosting tricks to help you get through social distancing and self-isolation. Exercising is a good way to get the endorphins to kick in and to uplift your mood. It can help you feel better about your physical abilities. Make sure you are not in a room that is bright yellow while exercising as it can have a draining effect on your mind and body. The best place to perform your workouts is in a room that has green walls.

Colours & Fashion For May 2020

It can get really gloomy with the entire world under lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, we must learn to take care of ourselves and indulge in different forms of self-care to get through it. One of the best ways to tackle this situation is by wearing colourful clothes and fun prints. We aren't cooking this up! Colour Psychology, the study of colours as a determinant of human behaviour suggests that wearing brightly coloured clothing can transform your attitude and mood in a jiffy. So if the pandemic is getting to you, take some fun colourful clothes out of your closet, dress up and paint your imagination!

Colours & Gems For May 2020

1. Rose Quartz
   In tough times like a global health crisis, all we need is love and hope. When we are stressed, it can be difficult to remember to take care of ourselves. Keeping a piece of Rose Quartz out where you can see it, like on a nightstand or next to the bathtub, can act as a powerful visual reminder to take care of yourself. Rose Quartz can also soothe your emotions by bringing the heart chakra into balance, something that is much-needed on days that seem to drag on forever and when you feel like nothing is going right.
2. Natural Pearl
   White is the lightest colour in the world. Isn’t that fascinating? How about a white gemstone like a pearl to delight your senses? When you feel like stress is literally consuming you from every angle, the Natural Pearl gemstone is here to rescue you, my dear friend! It is a soothing stone that is believed to bring you peace of mind. It is known to have excellent emotional healing properties to help you sail through those awful days. Natural Pearl is believed to bring relief from mental stress and sickness. Wear these pale white lovelies for less stress and more peace and to help you work through those difficult emotions.

Colours & Nature For May 2020

1. Malawi Peacock Cichlids
   What you are looking at is a beautiful fish known as the Peacock Cichlid. It has been popular with beginners as well as experts since decades. The fish comes within the haplochromis group and has dizzyingly bright colours such as red, orange, yellow, blue and also gold. It has vertical dark stripes along the body. Juvenile and female Peacock cichlids are usually dull in colour but the males transform as they mature, displaying a striking range of colours. It is considered one of the most dazzling freshwater fish in the world and will certainly stop you in your tracks!
2. Bioluminescent waves
   Nature has its own way of painting its imagination. Every time we feel we’ve seen it all, it challenges us and shows us something that sweeps us off the ground. Be it in the form of colourful planets, stunning vegetation and creatures or mesmerizing rainbows, there is always a little surprise waiting for you in the universe! The bioluminescent waves in some places such as Maldives and California are sure to leave you stunned! A concentrated population of bioluminescent phytoplankton resides on the water, making the ocean waves look like studded with diamonds. Different species of phytoplankton are known to bioluminesce. The chemical energy is turned into light, illuminating the waves. Fascinating, isn’t it?

Decor

These Crafty Ideas For Your Home Will See You Through Quarantine Time

Get artsy and add some pizzazz to your home décor with these ideas

As social distancing orders continue in an effort to control the novel coronavirus, most of us are stuck indoors with not much to do. To keep you occupied and pass time, we have curated a list of easy and creative home décor ideas that you can quickly DIY to refresh your living space without buying anything new.

Give old furniture a new makeover

If some of your old wooden furniture is sticking out like a sore thumb in your room, give it a makeover using quality wooden paints and finishes by Berger Paints India. Get inspiration from this vintage blue drawer. What was once an old drawer now serves as a place to store an extensive vinyl and record collection.

Macramé planter

If you have been meaning to try the macramé trend, this is a perfect time. Traditionally, macramé is done with a rope-like thread. However, creatives have been using different materials for years. You can recycle one of your old shirts and experiment with a very bohemian and eclectic looking planter for your home.

Paint an accent wall in a small room

If quarantine has you feeling cooped up, creating an accent wall can help your space feel bigger.

If you are unsure of which colour combination to go for, think about the colours that make you happy and will compliment your existing décor, furniture and style. An accent wall can look great in the bathroom. For wall painting inspiration, we love how this subtle shade of green brings light and serenity to a modern bathroom.

DIY painted planter

No matter if it’s your indoor or outdoor space that needs some sprucing up, planters can add a ton of personality. Why buy new planters when you can simply DIY and save some money and customise it you your exact colour desires. So, get your paintbrushes out and get artsy. These homemade planters also make perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Decorative plates on the wall

If you have a blank wall in the house that could use a quick refresh, use decorative plates you will have around the house to hang on the walls and create inspiring layouts. This décor idea is great for vintage and bohemian rooms and you can easily create a mosaic for a focal point in the room.

You Wont Have To Leave The House To Recreate These Cosy Bedroom Décor Ideas

These DIY and budget-friendly bedroom décor ideas will go a long way

During the ongoing quarantine, feeling stuck at home is easy when you are sharing the house with your entire family or roommates. For many of us, retreating to our bedroom to seek some privacy and alone time is keeping us sane. However, spending all your time in a room can have you feeling like the four walls are closing in on you. A little pick-me-up for your room can do wonders. The experts at Berger Paints India have curated these easy bedroom décor projects that will cheer you up in no time.

Build a bed canopy

If you have always wanted a canopy bed but never got around to buying one, you can use fabrics from your bedding drawer to create your own. This will help you create a serene environment to relax in when you are stuck at home.

Create a reading nook

All it takes is a cozy chair, a lamp and a book to make an empty corner in your bedroom feel like a brand new space.

Make the room come to life

Houseplants generate oxygen and help filter the air. Start with low maintenance plants like spider plant, pothos and money plant. Creepers and hanging plants look great in the bedroom and can brighten up the space in no time.

Mix warm and cool colours

The colour wheel can come in handy to decide on a palette for your bedroom. Opposite colours like blue and yellow/orange can work well. Blue makes the bedroom calmer while pops of yellow can add cheeriness. You can also research on bedroom wall paint and colours to incorporate using this colour technique.

Bookcase headboard

Even the simplest bed can look lush with this bookcase headboard. Move the bed in front of the bookcase, leaving some space in between to ensure easy access. This multi-functional furniture solution will also give you extra storage for your accessories and bedside essentials.

Creative Home Décor Ideas For When You Are Being Quarantined At Home

Encompassing everything from a flower wall to the perfect summer upgrade, there is plenty to keep you occupied here.

When we are stuck at home for an extended amount of time, social isolation can be overwhelming. There is only so much comfort TV binge-watch you can do. However, this extended time indoors can be an opportunity for us to tackle inspiring home projects. We’ve made a list of ways that you can use to give your house a quick refresh with things you probably already have at home.

Gallery wall

Gallery walls are powerful, beautiful and full of character. Since half of the fun in designing a gallery wall is collecting art and photographs that speak to you, take this time to enjoy the process. You can tell a story of your adventures and experiences and print photos for a personalised gallery wall. Or you can look up for prints online. You could also use newspaper or magazine clippings or vinyl record art for your gallery wall. Don’t limit yourself to the living room or bedroom. Gallery walls can work great for the bathroom too. The small space makes it a great place to experiment and create a big impact.

Summer upgrade

From bold colours to quirky prints, a few décor upgrades can give your home the ultimate summer makeover. Add a pop of colour with bright floral printed pillows, rug and curtains. Use this free time as an excuse to declutter and channel your inner Marie Kondoby incorporating Hygge inspired home décor. Pantone’s colour of the year 2020 evokes serenity and renewal and you can easily make your home feel brand new. If you have a balcony or a verandah, hang string lights and bring out a table and folding chairs. This will be a perfect addition for your alfresco meals and evening entertainment during the lockdown.

Flower wall

You don't have to limit yourself to displaying flowers in a vase. This flower wall is a creative way to incorporate faux flowers into your décor and it is super easy to make.

Rearrange furniture for a fresh perspective

Renovating the entire house is not likely on the cards any time soon. But simply switching the furniture around in a room can have a major impact. Move the couch to a different wall, try settling an armchair near a window or mix things up by swapping rugs from one room to another. Even switching the position of a lamp to another spot can brighten things up in the room a whole lot differently.

Colours & Ancient Sciences

Feng Shui For May 2020

Use the power of Feng Shui to find balance in your work and life to stay healthy

Feng Shui While Working From Home!

Though you may have had many home exterior ideas in your mind, you may have to put those on hold until the lockdown period ends and the situation gets better. Work from home (WFH) is the new normal now. Worry not! Put your energies and efforts on setting up a beautiful home interior where you can work from home productively from now on. Start scrolling below to know our top 3 Feng Shui tips.

Tip #1 Kick-start your day with gratitude

Starting your day with everything you are grateful for in life is a great idea as it brings prosperity and works as a positive energy boost. In fact, there has never been a good time than now to write positive affirmations in a gratitude journal. No matter how small or big a joy, develop the habit of appreciating what life has to offer and manifest your positive thoughts into reality!

Tip # 2 Figure out your goals for WFH and ace them

Decide what you need in order to accomplish your goals – laptop, pen, notepad, desk, chair, pillow and adequate lighting. Set up your home workstation accordingly. Set your “office” hours and post them where you can easily see them. Setting a schedule will help you feel in control and in charge of your life.

Tip #3 De-clutter the area where you will be working

In Feng Shui, clutter equals stuck energy. This is exactly the opposite of what you need - that is positive and flowing energy moving in and around you while working. Put all the unnecessary stuff in a basket or holder to clear off your working space.

Being flexible with work, rest and play now will help you achieve balance in your life for the coming months. These were some Feng Shui tips to work from home in the most focussed, creative and productive way possible! Hope you find this useful.

Reiki For May 2020

For many people, social distancing is causing loneliness, anxiety and depression. However, one can use the power of Reiki to manage such feelings. Read on to know all about it.

Reiki Tips to Handle Depression during Isolation

If you are one of the many individuals out there suffering from depression or negative feelings owing to isolation during the pandemic, you don’t have to live with it. You can make use of Reiki and get yourself back on track and gain self control.

To those who are fairly new to the concept of Reiki, let us quickly take you through how it can help. Reiki provides 5 basic principles to remove negativity, anger, worry and unfounded fears. Reiki encourages healthy living which in turn balances the body and balances the soul. It places you back in touch with your divine spark, your purpose and your true being. It shows you what your depression has been trying to show you all along. It connects you with other people who are loving, caring and understanding. It pulls away from that black blanket of depression and through its practices and teaching gives you new insight into a world of unthinkable possibilities. Now that you are better aware of the power of Reiki, let’s get started.

Two Reiki symbols are used in this exercise, Cho Ku Rei, and Sei He Ki.Cho Ku Rei is a symbol that is intended to increase or expand energy while Sei He Ki symbol is mainly used for maintaining balance and harmony.

Please make sure that you know how they are drawn before you begin the exercise. If you start crying during this exercise, don’t try to hold back. Allow yourself to cry because this is a great form of healing.

Find yourself a quiet space and make sure that you will not be disturbed for at least 20 - 30 minutes. Start by breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth slowly. Begin breathing in deeply through your nose, right into your belly and holding for a second, then breathing out through your mouth as hard as you can, as though you were breathing out every unpleasant experience that you had ever had. Repeat this several times or until you have no more need to. You will know when it feels right to stop and breathe normally again.

Now if you have drawn the symbols on a piece of paper, take up the piece of paper and lightly trace over Cho Ku Re and then Sei He Ki and then Cho Ku Rei again.

Speak the following line outloud “I am surrounded by Divine golden light, I am protected, healed and I have divine insight.”

Repeat this three times and then once you are finished, close your eyes and feel the experience, allow it to rest in you until you feel ready to stand and continue with your day.

Practise this exercise to reap the benefits of Reiki at the home. And always keep in mind thattough times don’t last, tough people do.

Vaastu For May 2020

How about fixing Vaastu mistakes that you may have committed in the past? Learn Vaastu guidelines to get rid of negativities in these tough times.

Vaastu Tips for Positivity amidst COVID-19

Home Appliances

For home decor according to Vaastu, let us start with home equipment. Equipment meant for heating should always be placed in the southeast of the room. Fridges should be kept in the northwest portion of the room while the TV can go anywhere but the northeast part of the room.

Study Table

A study table should be placed in the southwest of the room with the person facing north or east while studying for better concentration.

Dining Table

If placed in the kitchen, the dining table should be kept in the northwest section and be kept in such a way that the owner or the eldest person sitting will face the north or east and the guest face south or west while eating.

Bed

The bedroom is a place for rest and relaxation, and hence the placement of the bed according to Vaastu is significant. It should be kept towards the southwest part of the room but not in the southwest corner. When sleeping, one should take care to place their head towards the south for good sleep and well-being.

Mirror

Mirror should be installed on the north and east walls. It should not be placed in study rooms or opposite to beds in the bedroom.

Sofa set

Furniture such as sofa and chairs should be kept in the south and west of the living room. The chair on which the owner or the eldest person of the house sits should be placed facing the south or west direction.

Shoe Rack

Shoe rack should be placed in the southwest portion of the hall but never in the bedroom. Also, avoid placing footwear in the southeast, north or east of the house.

House Plants

Vaastu states that cactus or related flora, bonsai trees and plants with red flowers should not be kept inside the house. The northeast corner of the house should be devoid of plants and pots should not be placed along the north and east walls.

Follow these Vaastu principles for a positive home atmosphere!