What Is The Colour Of Love? For February 2020

Colour Stories

For time immemorial, red has been synonymous with love. It is considered the colour of passion and romance. Read on to know how it became the colour of love.

According to historical representations, the Greeks and Hebrews considered red to be a symbol of love. In the 13th century during the Middle Ages, one of the most popular works of literature was a French poem titled Roman de la Rose (the Romance of the Rose). The poem described the author’s search for a red rose in an enclosed garden, symbolising his search for the woman he loved. Many notable and popular poets and writers have also used the romantic significance of red roses in their writings.

In terms of the history of St Valentine’s Day, the origin of the celebrations of love on this day has never been certain, but many believe that St. Valentine was a Roman Catholic priest who was executed on February 14th in 269 AD.

We can clearly observe that the tradition of red being used to symbolise love has historical influences. However, there could be another reason why red has connotations with love, which is the influence of red on physical attraction.

In a study conducted by Elliot and Niesta (2008), male subjects were shown a photograph of a woman and asked to rate her attractiveness. A photograph of the woman wearing a red shirt was shown to half of the participants, while the other half was shown a photo of the same woman wearing a shirt that was blue in colour. Those who had been shown the woman wearing the red shirt rated her as more attractive and desirable.

Hues that are warm and rich are ideal to create a sensuous or romantic setting. If you are wondering what colours to wear to look most attractive, a bright red or wine red is the answer. A red dress or tie is bound to attract attention. In fact, this is not limited to clothing. Even driving a red sports car is believed to be more attractive.

When it comes to romantic gestures, giving red roses is a symbol of love. In fact, red roses are dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. According to the legend, her tears and Adonis’ blood watered the ground from where the red roses grew.

Hope you enjoyed reading this article and have gained some insight about the colour of love!

Colour Trivia

Colour Facts For February 2020

1. In photography, if you wish to create a certain kind of mood, use high and low key lighting. These effects are important to play with the atmosphere and style of your photos. High key lighting includes a lot of whites and light tones. It is used to produce images that have an optimistic, happy, upbeat reaction. Low key lighting, on the other hand, makes use of a lot of dark tones, shadows and blacks. It is used to create a mysterious and dramatic mood. Since low key lighting has very minimal amount of whites and mid tones, they are highly contrasting and stark in nature.
2. Analogous colours are three to five adjacent colours that share a common colour. The colours have a similar effect since they share the same colour family. Some examples of analogous colours include orange, red, green and yellow. For colour combination ideas, these colours, when paired together, look rich and deep and at the same time soothing and rejuvenating. If you are trying out this combination for your home décor, do not combine warm tones and cool tones together. This could end up looking plain drab and flat.
3. Vantablack is the darkest material ever made by man. In fact, it is so black that it looks Photoshopped. You will be surprised when you look at Vantablack in reality because nothing looks back at you. Until 2015, the colour was exclusive to aerospace and optics. But when engineers invented a cheaper spray-on version, it wasn’t just for techies anymore. Even artists and automobile companies started using the colour. The colour was however originally invented by the British company Surrey NanoSystems to remove stray light in telescopes and satellites.

Colour Quotes For February 2020

• "The colour is a power which directly influences the soul."

  - Wassily Kandinsky

• "With colour one obtains an energy that seems to stem from witchcraft."

  - Henri Matisse

• "I found I could say things with colors and shapes that I could not say any other way."

  - Georgia O'Keeffe

Colour Tips For February 2020

1. Grey and pink colour combination is a perfect colour palette since it allows the interior décor to be more soft and light by adding white and create bold and dark contrasts with black. A few decorative pieces in pink can quickly transform any room, bringing romance into your home. And grey walls can be added for giving a calm and elegant vibe to your room décor. You can also experiment with different hues of grey like dark grey and light grey and tones of pink like blush pink and millennial pink to create a colour palette that is personalised and fits your own unique taste.
2. Whether it is a bold accent wall or an unexpected painting ceiling, colours have a transformative power to change the atmosphere of any room. And when it comes to the colours that will dominate 2020, you will be spoilt from choices between rich, moody hues and elegant neutrals. Paint for home in colours like cobalt blue, forest green and aubergine are major this year and perfect for an accent wall that is full of elegance and personality. For neutrals, we are seeing a shift from cool colour palette to warm colour palette. Organic tones with warm undertones will be popular in the home décor space this year.
3. From a rise in sustainably sourced materials (vintage pieces and up cycled plastic art) to a focus on clean minimalism (Japanese and Scandinavian designs) and even modern rustic chic rooms with materials made of natural fabrics like jute and hemp – they are all major home trends for this year. So if you are looking to decorate your home this year, or make sure it doesn’t look dated- incorporate these trends in your moodboard. For home colour ideas, Pantone colour of the year 2020 – Classic Blue is a timeless and enduring hue that is elegant in its simplicity.

World Of Colours

Colours & Emotion For February 2020

1. Colour can be a powerful way to convey emotion in your artwork or your illustration. It can be used to create a literal mood, be it a sombre grey rainy scene or a cheerful bright yellow breakfast corner in a kitchen. It can be used figuratively to evoke emotion via characters and objects. If you want to create a setting of romance and desire, use red tones to set the scene. It doesn't have to be between characters. Using the colour red can also imply a passion for a thing such as a character's passion for music.
2. Painters usually convey their emotions through their artwork using colours and colour combination. In terms of conveying emotion through work, the 17th century Italian painter Caravaggio was a master. If you look at this Baroque artist’s body of work, you will notice immediately how dark it is. The background of the painting is often black with just a warm glow over the figures in the scene. Even if you are not familiar with the stories depicted in these paintings, which are often biblical, you can feel the intensity of the scene simply because of the colour preferences of the artist. This style was very much unique to Caravaggio and worked as an inspiration for other artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Velazquez.

Colours & Fashion For February 2020

Have you heard of colour blocking? Colour blocking is when colours that are opposites on the colour wheel are paired together for an interesting and complementary colour combination. The process of colour blocking is as simple as it sounds - adding blocks of solid colours to one outfit. It is commonly associated in fashion as a trend that originated from the artwork of Piet Mondrian, a Dutch painter. In the fashion world, it first began with a dress by Yves St. Laurent way back in 1946. Yves St. Laurent was inspired by Mondrian's work and brought to life his colour blocking idea through an iconic dress with Mondrian's name. How about trying this colour blocking look? You can also try wall paint in two contrasting shades for your favourite walls to create a statement.

Colours & Gems For February 2020

1. Demantoid Garnet

   You are looking at Demantoid Garnet, which is the rarest of all the garnet varieties. It is considered valuable by collectors for its exceptional brilliance. The rarest and most precious Demantoid is from Russia, and only the Russian material is valuable in the eyes of serious gem investors. Demantoid garnet is found mostly in small sizes, with most stones below 1 carat. This gemstone is believed to help remove obstacles that come in the way of love. It is a wonderful crystal for married couples who also work together to keep harmony in the relationship. Isn’t it lovely?

2. Tsavorite

   The gemstone in the picture is known as Tsavorite. It is a rare member of the garnet family and a new member in the jewellery market. As it is a garnet, it is the birthstone for the month of January. It is a rich, deep green emerald coloured garnet though it is also seen in different shades of colours like yellow.

   It was discovered in Tsavo National Park, Kenya, in 1967 by Campbell Bridges, and was introduced to the trade in the 1970s. It was named by Tiffany's Henry Platt, along with Campbell Bridges in 1974. It looks similar to an emerald but is more brilliant and durable. As this gemstone is not quite popular, it is far less expensive than an emerald. The gemstone is in demand more by collectors and connoisseurs, than by the general public.

Colours & Nature For February 2020

1. Turquoise-browed Motmot
   The bird in the picture is known as Turquoise-browed Motmot. It is one of the most flamboyantly plumaged birds. You can see this bird in the Yucatán Peninsula of Eastern Mexico and Northernmost Guatemala, and on the Pacific slope of Middle America, from Southern Mexico south to Northwest Costa Rica. It has olive-green underparts with a cinnamon-coloured belly, and a darker reddish patch near its head. The most eye-catching feature is its turquoise feathers just like the eyebrows that contrast with the black mask. It has a long graduated bright blue tail, which has the central feathers twice as long as the rest. So many striking colours, right?
2. Malabar Banded Peacock
   What you are looking at is the Malabar Banded Peacock. It is a dazzling butterfly belonging to the group papilionidae which mainly consist of large butterflies. It has a beautiful green and an eye- catchy shiny aqua green band with a beautiful tail. The underside also shows an orange spot on the hind wing area. It is mostly found in Kerala in India during October to February. You can find this butterfly in the lush dense forest areas or places with dense vegetation in fruit-bearing trees. The butterfly displays its coloured wings to ward off predators.

Décor

The Easiest And Quickest Ways To Add Colour To Your Kitchen

Ditch boring white, add personality to your kitchen with these tips.

Adding colour is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to change things up in the kitchen– no renovation or construction required. You can punch up a wall in an accent colour like yellow and red or revamp your old cabinets with wooden paint. If you are thinking of a quick kitchen revamp, we’ve got some colour inspiration for you.

Warmer colours like red and orange are said to stimulate the appetite and a great colour choice for your kitchen. Since red is so versatile with different tones and shades available, you can choose your favourite red that will pop in the kitchen, be it on the walls, cabinets or even as a fridge or oven.

Blue works great for the kitchen too. When used in lighter hues, blue can create a clean, airy atmosphere in the kitchen. Dark colours can work too but remember to use it sparingly with hints of white, grey or other light neutral colours to keep it from looking too stark and dark.

The all-white kitchen trend isn’t ready to date just yet. But there is a certain inclination towards sophisticated warm neutrals. Mushroom neutrals and oatmeal whites are major when it comes to neutrals this year. For paint for kitchen, they are creamy and subtle enough to replace all-white kitchens. And if you are someone who prefers switching things up in the kitchen every once in a while, the new neutral creates the perfect base that will fit in any trend- be it Parisian inspired kitchens or Mediterranean al-fresco style.

To add some instant cheeriness, yellow can brighten up a boring kitchen. It has a soothing quality and at the same time, it can make small spaces seem bigger and brighter. Yellow works great as an accent wall and pairs well with grey and white colours.

Grey is a neutral that has been popular in home décor lately. When you pick the right shade, it can work wonderfully in the kitchen. Grey also works extremely well with most colours, making it a safe choice to explore when looking for complimentary colours. When used in cabinets or countertop, grey has the power to make a kitchen classy instantly.

Create A Romantic Bedroom Using These Colours

Forget roses and chocolates, bring romance back with these colour and decor tips.

In between your hectic routine, having a romantic corner in the house can be crucial to keep a relationship on track. This space can be your escape midst a chaotic lifestyle. While everyone’s idea of a perfect romantic space may be different, you can use the power of colours to set an ambience that is sure to create a special space. You can keep the bedroom feeling cosy and romantic all year long with these sultry colours for home.

Caramel

Caramel tones tend to have a unique sweetness to it which can help create a soothing, more romantic tone into a bedroom. This is also a great way to add some colour to the room that is not too bold nor distracting but rather relaxing and comforting. Stick to caramel hues that are more orange than brown since the latter has a tendency to make rooms drab. If you are looking for new colours for bedroom walls, caramel tones are perfect to create a balance between bright décor pieces in the room.

Jewel tones

Metallic and jewel tones, just like this luscious gold, make everything seem royal and magical. Incorporating jewel colours in the bedroom setting is one of the best ways to bring in some romance into the space. If you truly want to go glam, add some texture to your bedroom walls using Berger Silk Illusions Design Metallica paints.

Millennial Pink

Pink is a timeless colour that has an enduring quality. And there is a new pink on the block that is equal parts romantic and chic. Millennial pink adds a pop of colour into any room and improves the design style. Injecting this colour in the bedroom can make the room look exquisite. You can also use soft blush pinks, upbeat corals and richer tones of raspberry and fuchsia to create a sense of fun, romance and class.

Ruby Red

If pink is just not your colour, ruby red can be a great alternative. It is fun and flirty, mysterious and sensuous for the bedroom walls. It pairs well with natural cane accessories and warm neutrals. Stick to one accent wall in this colour in smaller spaces. If your bedroom is dark and receives less natural light, ensure you incorporate lots of whites to balance out the dark tones.

These Are The Best Paint Colours For Every Room In Your House

If your home walls need sprucing up, these colours ideas for every room in the house is for you.

Picking the right paint colour is all about setting the right ambience for your home. And since each room of your house serves a different purpose, it is important to think of the function and create a mood accordingly. No matter what colour or aesthetic you are aiming for, we have some ideas for you to set certain moods throughout your home with some fabulous paint colour ideas.

Statement making door paint

Give your home exteriors the quickest and easiest home makeover. Paint the door in a bright, bold, uplifting colour like this turquoise blue that is guaranteed to make your home the center of attention.

Go blue for the kitchen

Your kitchen doesn’t need to be all white and neutral. Choose a colour that is interesting and balancing, like this serene blue that is still neutral enough but you won’t get sick of it a few years down the line.

A dining room your guests will never want to leave

When painting your house, don’t forget the dining room. This is a space you will be spending most time bonding with your loved ones. When it comes to best colours for the dining room, you can literally explore every colour of the rainbow in this corner of the house. We particularly love this yellow dining room.

For when you zzz

There are many ways to make your bedroom a calm oasis. But painting the walls in a pretty shade of lavender is a great place to start. This soothing hue is proven to help sleep better and evoke spiritual healing and relaxing vibes.

A kid’s room that grows with them

Picking a colour for the kid’s room can be tricky since they tend to outgrow things so quickly. But finding a hue that can work with their developing taste and personality is important. Stick to a colour that is simple and versatile and stands the test of time, like this oatmeal beige hue. To keep things fun, incorporate pops of colours using lighting, furniture and textiles.

For the space you spend most of your time in

Your living room is a safe haven, a place where you unwind after work, curl up with a book or binge watch TV shows all weekend. For wall paint colour ideas, the sweetest shade of blush pink is what your living room needs to bring a dose of whimsical, warm vibes.

A productive home office

Black and white, when paired together, is a classic combination that strikes a perfect balance between light and dark. This pairing can work wonderfully for your home office since it is less distracting, helping you be more productive.

For colour options for every room in your home, explore thousands of colours by Berger Paints India.

Colours & Ancient Sciences

Feng Shui For February 2020

If you want to create a positive outdoor space for your home, using the principles of Feng Shui can be a good idea. Learn some home exterior ideas related to Feng Shui.

Feng Shui Your Home Exteriors

Let’s dive straight into four, easy steps to Feng Shui your home exteriors.

• Exterior paint
• Front doors and patios
• Gardens
• Landscaping elements

Choose Your Exterior Paint

Assess the colours of your neighbouring houses to finalise your home’s exterior paint. You can use vibrant colours for window trims and other architectural details to attract positive energy. The idea is to create a harmonious setting with subtle balance.

Design Your Front Porch and Door

The key to good Feng Shui is believed to lie in the front door. Your home gets its energy through its front door, so it is a good idea to promote the open flow of energy. Make sure that the colour of the front door is in harmony with the direction in which it opens. Also, make sure that the front door is in good shape so as to not risk attracting negative energy. Ensure that the paint has not cracked or chipped and keep the door hinges clean by regular oiling.

Create Balance in Your Garden

It is a good idea to rely on your bagua and understand the five elements to create a proper Feng Shui garden.

• The Northeast area of a garden is connected to personal growth, making it perfect for creating a spot for a Zen garden with rock formations.
• Create curving pathways if you have a huge home entrance so that Chi can flow properly.
• Add water elements like a fountain in the east, north or southeast.
• Hang wind chimes to create healing vibrations in the air.

Add Landscaping Elements

Your entire outdoor living space can rely on proper Feng Shui. Your landscaping, just like your garden, does not have to depend on the quantity of space but quality of what you have.

Keep garden steps to the side of the house, not right in front of it. In fact, avoid having the steps starting directly in front of the main gate.

Reiki For February 2020

Did you know that Reiki can help improve sleep and get rid of insomnia? Read on to know how to reap the benefits.

Fight Insomnia with Reiki!

Many people have found that Reiki helps relax and makes it easier for them to fall asleep quickly and easily. However, Reiki should not be considered as a cure for insomnia and sleep problems.

Reiki cannot be an alternative to allopathic medicine and must be used as a “complementary” therapy. That said, here is a quick look at how you can best use Reiki techniques for sleep.

One of the methods for good sleep in Reiki is by performing Reiki on your heart and third eye chakras. Keep your hands on these chakras to let Reiki flow. This is known to induce sleep within minutes.

The second method involves a more thorough Reiki application. Begin by keeping your hands on your closed eyes and place your palms on your cheekbones. Stay in this position for about five minutes to reduce stress and improve your state of mind. Then, move your hands to either side of your chest right below your collarbones and maintain that position for another five minutes. This will help to regulate your heart rate and blood pressure, both of which contribute in falling asleep.

For the third five-minute segment, keep one hand above your navel and one hand below it. This position serves to restore energy and enhances vitality. Finally, for the last five minutes, put your hands in the shape of a “V” over your lower abdomen just slightly above your pubic bone. This position helps to ground you and feel more confident.

This self-treatment has a calming effect on not just one’s body but mind and soul, harmonising all the chakras. You can also use this treatment effectively any time you need a sense of calm and peace wherever you are. You can try Reiki before going to sleep and also when you face difficulty getting to sleep or getting back to sleep.

How about trying this Reiki at the home and see for yourself!

Vaastu For February 2020

Thinking of beautifying your home? Read on to know some décor elements that is both auspicious and visually appealing for your home.

Beautify your home with Vaastu-compliant décor!

Vaastu Decorative Item #1: Plants

Create a relaxed and soothing atmosphere with succulents in your home. It is recommended that you do not keep cacti and bonsai as they attract a lot of negativity into the space. If you are fond of big plants, make sure you do not keep them in the north eastern corner of your home.

Vasstu Decorative Item #2: Mirrors

Mirrors hold a powerful position according to the principles of Vaastu and are believed to be crucial in maintaining positivity in the house.

You could place these on walls facing east or north. You could try keeping it four to five feet above the ground to attract positive vibes. However, do keep in mind that it is inauspicious to place a mirror right in front of the bed.

Vaastu Decorative Item #3: Paintings

Paintings that have scenery in soft colours and depict calm landscapes are considered important for balance in the house. It is a good idea to pick a painting that depicts a waterfall, sunrise, flowers or birds. Don’t opt for abstract paintings or those that depict misery, poverty, devastation and war.

Vaastu Decorative Item #4: Water feature

Vaastu is all about loving nature. Elements associated with water are considered auspicious. It helps to keep good energies flowing and to get rid of tensions.

You can add a small indoor fountain if you have enough space in your house. If not, keeping an aquarium can also be a great addition. It can be placed in the north, east or north-east direction in your home.

Vaastu Decorative Item #5: Curtains

The colour blue helps in absorbing negative energy. According to Vaastu, using blue curtains can deflect negative vibes and attract positivity. It is recommended that you place them in the north side of your home. Avoid colours such as deep red and black.

Usher in positive energies in your home with these home decorations according to Vaastu.