What Does Your Living Room Paint Say About You?

There are several schools of thought regarding this, but I am going to harken back to one of the oldest in existence, Feng Shui, a centuries-year-old method of using energy and its flow, to enhance your environment and well-being. Based on earthly elements, fire, earth, and water, plus metal and wood, each component contributes to an area of your home.

Of course there is nothing set in stone about color and your reaction to it, but there is an association, a mindset rather, regarding a response to external stimulation. These suggestions are the results of my research and personal opinion. I promise I will not take it personally if you disagree.

My overall suggestion is to integrate the meaning of the color with the energy you would like to bring to a room. Yes, there are advanced Feng Shui blueprints, but if you don't want to rearrange your entire floor plan or color scheme, add elements for improvements.

Red is associated with fire in Feng Shui studies. Fire raises the energy level of an area and makes a strong first impression. There is balance with the fire element, or it will consume all that surrounds it. Spiritual growth, relationships, and your public reputation will all benefit from a boost of red.

Purple is loosely affiliated with the fire element and brings the awareness of blue mixed with the energy of red. Pale shades of purple combine the calm of blue, but with a boost of warmth. Purple is identified with wisdom, enlightenment, and transformation.

Yellow is also part of the fire element, but it is hardest on the eyes. An infusion of yellow throughout your home can add energy and warmth. Yellow also encourages conversation, so maybe a less-saturated version of your favorite shade could bolster communication without blinding your guests.

The color orange, like the fruit that bears its name, is energizing. Also a member of the fire element, orange can revitalize an area of waning energy. For me, that area would be the laundry room.

Peach and pink are also in this family but act as a subtle cousin. Make a room feel more intimate and cheerful, welcoming and energizing your guests by stimulating conversation and appetites.

Blues are on the water wavelength. They lower blood pressure, encourage creativity, and represent unity, harmony, trust, and security. Abundance accompanies security in Feng Shui energy, so blue is a representative of the energy of abundance. Blue used in a home office will encourage abundance and harmony. In a family room, blue strengthens unity. Just don't go overboard; blue can "drown" out a room if overdone.

Green is synonymous with the wood element of Feng Shui. Green symbolizes health, something that is beneficial to all components of your home. I'm expanding on the terrestrial aspect of green here; it is the color seen most often in nature. It represents healing and renewal, and can be used in any area of your home.

What does your paint say about you? Whether you're looking to stage your home for sale or simply want to find the style that best suits your personality, connect with me today!