There are so many ways to decorate a home to make it the most comfortable for you, but did you know that the colors you choose might just be affecting your mood and your life? Studies have shown that different colors can have a stimulating effect on your body and mind. Using this knowledge, you can make sure that your home really exudes the kind of atmosphere you want to create for yourself, your family, and your guests!

A modern living room with a red wall

Red
Putting red in a room is said to encourage energy and excitement, and it has been shown to raise blood pressure and increase respiration and heart rates. This rise in excitement stimulates conversation and amps up the adrenaline, encouraging people to chat—that’s why so many restaurants have red décor. Use red in places where you plan on entertaining guests like the living room or dining room. Orange has a similar energetic effect, but is a bit more potent. Put a bright orange in your exercise room to really bring out your enthusiastic side.

Yellow
Yellow brings about joy, comfort, and happiness, which is no surprise seeing as it’s the color of sunshine. It is best suited for places where you want to encourage a welcoming feel, like a foyer or entrance, or kitchen or bathroom. Be careful not to overdo with yellow though, as it’s said to adverse effects if there’s too much, leading to loss of temper or feelings of frustrating. And keep it out of the nursery—it’s been said that babies cry more in yellow rooms.

Blue
Blue has a relaxing, calming effect, making it good for bedrooms to help you power down at the end of the night. It’s said that looking at blue can decrease blood pressure and slow down respiration and heart rate, which is why it’s so often used in spas. If blue isn’t your thing, a lilac shade of purple has similar calming effects.

Green
As a mixture between blue and yellow, green combines the effects of those colors. It’s said that green is restful for the eyes and reminds us of nature, which brings us tranquility. Green will suit just about any room, but is best in rooms where you want to encourage relaxation and comfort—like a family room or living room.

Now you have the tools to make your home as welcoming as possible, so put on your designing cap and get painting and decorating!