Ask Kate: Healing Colors

Q: I’m at a difficult place in my life. Can the colors in my home help or hinder me as I heal?

by Kate Smith

A. Perhaps a recent divorce has trampled your spirit, leaving you in need of some nurturing. Maybe your ailing dad recently moved in to spend the last few months of his life under your care. It could be your soul is just in need of encouragement. Whatever the circumstance might be, the fact is that you and your loved ones need more than just a restful sanctuary. You need a room filled with a palette that will foster a sense of well-being and encouragement.

Nurturing and protective color schemes work especially well in rooms where you spend a lot of time, such as bedrooms. However, don’t be afraid to incorporate these into any room of the house. For example, if the bathroom is the only place you get any “me” time, don’t hesitate to incorporate healing palettes there. They can also be appropriate for any room you might relax in, such as a sunroom or library.

Here are three color tips that can help you create a healing environment for you or your loved one: 

1. The hallmark of a room with a nurturing feel is its combination of cool and warm shades. Look for hues that fit the bill by finding colors that are opposite from each other on a color wheel. This complementary scheme is sure to create a sense of being “just right.” The result is a balanced, low-stress room that encourages the spirit.

2. There’s more to creating a caring feel than throwing a warm and cool color in the same room. The key is to choose colors that are gentle rather than jarring. Look for understated shades that won’t create eye-startling contrasts. So instead of bright pinks or bold purples, consider warm pastel corals and cool light blues. Remember to take the room’s furniture into consideration as well—after all, it’s harder to create a protective environment when the color of the furniture provides a stark contrast against the walls. You may want to repurpose furniture by covering with lower-contrast colors using slipcovers or paint.

3. Earthy neutrals can also create a grounded sense—one that helps to cultivate a healthier environment. In fact, the ancient Chinese practice Feng Shui uses earth-based tones to convey stability and protection. Consider using an earthy brown or gray in your room to produce a nurturing and caring mood.