How colour therapy can alleviate anxiety, improve your mood and boost your confidence. By Mughni Che Din

Can wearing a particular shade of colour have an effect on your physical and mental and wellbeing?

The answer is yes! Studies have shown that colours can have an impact on our mood and how we perceive the world. Colour therapy, or scientifically known as chromotherapy can even be used to relieve anxiety and boost your confidence.

While most chromatherapy relies on light rays of different wavelengths, the basic premise is to have exposure to a certain colour so that the light-waves can stimulate the particles of a certain area. Ever wondered why surgeons in a hospital wear scrubs in shades of blue? Both blue and green are said to have a calming and healing effect.

According to Jules Standish, author of ‘How Not to Wear Black’, “Wearing warm and bright colours, such as red or pink, releases dopamine which is also known as the “feel-good” hormone” helps to improve our mood, heighten the attention span and even boosts our sex-drive,” says Standish, “Cool hues, on the other hand have been linked to the release of oxytocin, making you feel calm.”

The next time you feel anxious, depressed or simply in need of an instant pick-me-up, consider adding a pop of colour to brighten up your day! Here’s an ultimate guide on what colour to wear: