The psychology of colour: white

Martha Roberts, creator of The Colour File, investigates how colour makes us think, act and feel. We take a look at wistful white

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The psychology of colour: white

What do you think of when you hear the word โ€˜whiteโ€™? For many, itโ€™s the colour of purity while, in some cultures, it signifies death. Feng shui consultant and wellbeing coach Alexandra Lees says: โ€˜In feng shui, white is an energy reviver. In the home, it is a useful โ€œcureโ€ for troubleshooting in small and dingy areas where stagnant energy accumulates. Its restoring qualities can help support your goals, symbolising starting over and unbridled creativity.

โ€˜So, if youโ€™re embarking on a new chapter, introducing white into the spaces where you spend time focusing will help create the perfect setting for the positive to manifest,โ€™ says Lees. โ€˜The beauty of white is in the feeling of space it brings with it.โ€™

The colour challenge

The colour challenge is to find out how you can use white as a force for good in your home and life. Lees says you can do this by addressing some simple questions:

โ— Are there any dark or small rooms and corridors in your home? Consider using white to reinvigorate the stale energy in those spaces.

โ— Where do you like to unwind? โ€˜White can be used to help you become more mindfulโ€™, she says.

โ— Want to be more creative, plan career changes or tap into your intuition? Consider introducing white into spaces such as desk areas, maybe with white accessories, or a white wall.

โ— When do you most want to ooze confidence? โ€˜Get rid of darker shades and dress yourself and your home in white statement pieces,โ€™ advises Lees.

โ— Are you at the end of a chapter, or embarking on a new one in your life? โ€˜How could you bring more white into your space to help you start over, mentally and emotionally?โ€™ asks Lees.

Find out more about Martha here.

Images: Martha Roberts