What does blue-gray color mean? What do colors mean in psychology?

What does your favorite color say about you as a person? The meanings of colors and their shades have carried hidden messages since ancient times. Experts say that the chosen color determines a person’s character, his principles, values, fears and complexes. Let us briefly examine the meanings of colors and their influence.

Emotions and color

Psychologists have come to the conclusion that some events are strongly connected with the psychology of color and color meaning. Thus, black and gray shades carry information about grief, mourning and tears. Joyful events are associated with brightness and a riot of colors. These include orange, yellow, pink, shades of green, blue and so on. Let's analyze the meanings of colors from two perspectives: the characteristics of people who prefer one or another shade, and the general impact on emotions and mood.

Black

Let's look at the meaning of black. It does not always carry only a negative message. It all depends on the situation. If this shade predominates in the child’s drawings, it is recommended to contact a child psychologist. But everything is not so simple. Let's turn to the wardrobe. This is the shade preferred by wealthy people. Black makes you feel more powerful. A person who prefers black does not strive to be invisible. Just the opposite. He subconsciously tries to attract attention to himself, preferring to remain in an aura of mystery for those around him. Those who love black love to experiment in the love sphere, and they will not be bored in bed.

White

Like black, the meaning of which is not always negative, white combines several characteristics, including, oddly enough, a negative aspect. Everyone knows that he represents purity, innocence and openness. White is also a symbol of freedom and the destruction of stereotypes that prevent you from breathing freely. It acts as a symbol of equality because it combines other colors. People who prefer it are perfectionists. They love their work with all their hearts and devote themselves to it without reserve. They are very open and easily recognize lies. The dark side of this color is that it has the ability to suppress and represents emptiness. In some eastern countries, where there are beliefs about the rebirth of the soul after physical death, white is associated with the afterlife and is considered the color of eternal life. Therefore, clothes of this color are worn at funerals, in contrast to the traditional black color in Russia and Europe.

Grey

According to surveys, this is one of the most unpopular shades in the wardrobe. It represents the middle between white and black. If a person chooses him, you can be sure that he puts logic, calculation, and mind first, and not feelings and emotions. It is considered a symbol of order and balance. It is recommended to be worn by timid people to increase self-confidence. Psychologists claim that lovers of a gray shade are in crisis, emotionally and morally exhausted, on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

The Grays can help reassure those who need it. They are very modest by nature and do not like to stand out from the crowd. Although gray is calming, it cannot open up prospects for the foreseeable future. It does not have the energy component for beginnings and accomplishments.

Pink

If you are constantly overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions, you worry and worry a lot, pink can help. It is a symbol of joy, childhood and carelessness. Those who choose it for themselves love attention and try to stand out from the crowd. People who prefer this shade in their wardrobe are very hardworking, but touchy, tearful and somewhat naive. In anime you can often find characters whose hair is dyed pink. And this is not an accident or fiction. They are given to heroes who are strong and love to break the rules. If we talk about a darker shade of pink, then we can say with confidence that a person does not tolerate violence and cruelty, takes from life what he considers necessary, but does it with caution, and does not go ahead. Unfortunately, it is difficult for “pink” people to build relationships with the opposite sex. Potential satellites quickly lose interest in them. Lovers of pink are often tied to the past and live in memories.

Brown

Let's look at the meaning of brown. Although it is also a dark shade, its impact is much more positive than that of gray and black. If this color predominates in a person’s clothes, it means that one can only envy his self-confidence. Every person in life has moments when it seems that everything is going wrong, and problems pile up like a snowball. It is on such days that brown will come in handy. It gives hope for the best. It contains red and yellow. Considering the meaning of brown, it is worth noting the following:

  1. A person who chooses this shade loves life, but his mind comes first.
  2. In love, lovers of brown are conservatives, and in the first place they do not put passion, but emotional harmony.
  3. It combines common sense, reliability and a great tendency to depression.
  4. Advice: when going to an interview or business meeting, choose brown. Lovers of this color are honest and love what they do. And this is the main thing that the employer pays attention to. In addition, “browns” remain calm even in critical situations.
  5. Brown colors are popular in decoration. Gift packaging looks stylish and expensive. This is what is used in advertisements for high-quality cigars and expensive coffee, so this shade can be considered a kind of sign of quality.

Blue

Initially, this shade was feminine, not masculine, as is commonly believed today. This is the color of calm, harmony, sincerity, and it is a symbol of fidelity. The blue tint has been present in temples since ancient times. It is believed to attract white forces and protect young children.

Blue has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart. Normalizes the general physical and psychological state of the body. Those who love the color blue usually have a phlegmatic character and express a desire for harmony. They don't show too much emotion. They value stability and security. Another interesting fact: jeans, which have become an integral part of the wardrobe, symbolize freedom, equality and unity. That's why they were so popular among hippies.

Yellow

The meaning of yellow is clear to everyone. This is a symbol of warmth, sun, joy. It disperses bad mood, relieves blues and depression. It has a tonic effect on the body and improves mobility. The meaning of yellow in psychology expresses the desire to discover inner potential, spiritual search, inner freedom, happiness and love. Why are stickers most often painted yellow? Written text is easier to digest on a yellow background. But you shouldn’t overdo it with it. When there is too much of it, excitability increases and the person becomes more restless. When used in clothing, it indicates a strong, purposeful personality and a high degree of confidence. But there is a negative interpretation of yellow. The meaning of colors is not always clear. So, yellow symbolizes death, illness and the other world, the afterlife.

Orange

The main meaning of the color orange is the warmth of brightness and celebration. But it is not the only one. This includes human warmth, gatherings with family and friends, a fire by the fireplace, tangerines and the New Year. What is the meaning of the color orange for personality? People who choose this color are homely, friendly, open and warm. They are emotional and lively, with a positive outlook on the world. They love life and receive pleasant emotions and pleasure from it. These are strong freedom-loving people. They have high self-esteem. The color orange symbolizes dreamers. They quickly become interested in new things, but quickly burn out. If you need to bring people together, use this shade.

Green

The meaning of the color green has long been associated with nature. This color is considered the most cheerful among others, symbolizing growth, development and vitality. He is especially revered in Muslim countries. The Prophet is often depicted wearing green robes. It restores strength and normalizes the psychological state. For psychosomatic diseases, green normalizes the general condition of the body as a whole. Doctors also found confirmation of the meaning of green in psychology.

Red

Aggression, impulsiveness, sensuality, passion. You don't need to understand the meanings of colors to understand that all these epithets describe the color red. Psychologists attribute it to the most ancient shade of all existing ones. Historically, it expresses blood, fire and the fiery feeling of love. Experts note that it is red that ranks first in popularity. Previously, only priests and representatives of the highest authorities could afford to wear it. This color can warm and excite at the same time. It fills the body with energy and increases blood pressure. The person becomes more mobile. The color red has always brought good luck in battles. It is worn by leaders with an active mind and vivid imagination, they love to take risks and strive for victory. They have a strong will and independent character. The other side of the coin is that Reds are often selfish, overly stubborn and cruel even towards close people. Another negative property of the color red is that it quickly tires if you look at it for a long time.

Lilac

The meaning of lilac color is associated with the period of growth. When the personality is not yet fully formed and goes through the path of formation and maturation. Another meaning of lilac color is the craving for self-expression, for vanity. It expresses ease of life, openness. These are creative people who make the pursuit of perfection their life goal. They are very flexible and prone to improvisation. "Lilac" is easy to recognize from the crowd. It’s as if an inner glow emanates from them. This is how they are defined by specialists, psychologists and masters of art. They give others love, warmth and comfort. But lovers of lilac themselves tend to fall into depression, which can last for quite a long time. Despite the fact that they give warmth of communication, in such times they need the help of loved ones. They cannot find a way out of depression on their own, or it costs them a lot of effort. They cannot stand painstaking work that requires sitting still for a long time. They love to invent. They make excellent writers, actors and artists. “Lilacs” are very vulnerable, tend to underestimate self-esteem and are incredibly gullible. They take care of things and memories. Moreover, both to the good ones and to those who caused them pain.

Violet

The meaning of purple is controversial and ambiguous. It was once considered the color of wealth and aristocracy. He expressed sensuality and passion. But the meaning of flowers changes under the influence of time and culture. Purple has retained an aura of mystery and tenderness. That is why many books of the fantasy and mystic genre are designed in this color. People who prefer this color are melancholic natures, with a strong sense of self-esteem. They are not like others. They have a rational mindset. Purple is recommended to be worn by those who suffer from low self-esteem. “Violet” people find it difficult to get along with themselves due to the fact that they criticize themselves too much. This shade also indicates that a person needs approval and support. Some people have a negative reaction to the color purple because gay people love it very much.

Blue

Let's look at the meaning of blue. If you are going on a date, or you have important negotiations coming up, and you want to win over the other person, wear something blue. He inspires trust and respect. It is recommended to use it to emphasize your social position and status. What is the significance? Experts believe that this shade has a beneficial effect on employees, makes them want to work productively, and motivates them. People who prefer this color are straightforward and stable. The color blue gives strength to fight physical illnesses, which is why it is popular in the design of hospitals.

Burgundy

The burgundy shade combines willpower and determination of the red shade and a penchant for philosophy, inner core and resistance to brown. He is chosen by strong-willed individuals. They are conservative and self-confident, good organizers. At the same time, such a person is not inclined to show emotions. Burgundy color can give a person the missing stamina and determination. If there is too much of it, it leads to depression and depression.

Turquoise

Turquoise belongs to cool tones. It creates an atmosphere of freshness and coolness. It is also called the color of sterility and purity. Lovers of this shade are strict with others, but it is even harder for them with themselves. They love to lead and live by strict rules. Turquoise speaks of isolation. A dark shade is depressing, especially if a person is prone to neuroses.

Benefits for the individual

The psychology of color, the meaning of color, as already mentioned, can say a lot about a person’s character, but that’s not all. By knowing the messages of shades, you can find out your strengths and weaknesses, achieve success in business, get a long-awaited promotion, attract the right people and find common ground with others based on their color choice. All you need to do is find out the meaning of each color. The key to closed doors can be hidden in small details. You can improve your life simply by choosing the right colors in your workplace, in your clothes, or by arranging a few items in your room.



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Color is something that surrounds every person every day and evokes special emotions and sensations. The choice of clothing, interior items, improvised means and much more according to shades and palettes directly speaks about a person’s preferences, his state of mind and inner feelings. Preferences in colors also characterize temperament and mood regarding the upcoming event.

The meaning of colors in psychology

Choosing the right tone contributes to various effects and can even guarantee success in various endeavors (at work, dating, meeting important people, etc.).
Understanding what certain shades and combinations carry, it will be easier for each person to navigate and even direct the course of events in the right direction. You can understand your condition, see changes in your friends and acquaintances, help improve your mood, and much more by correctly selecting and combining certain colors in your style and environment (items on your desktop, home interior, etc.).

Experts have proven that certain events or memories are directly related to one color or another. Almost everyone associates various holidays and events with bright colors such as red, orange, green, pink, yellow, etc. Sad events always have a black or gray tone.
Subconsciously, people perceive and react to colors in a similar way. Since childhood, a person gets used to perceiving red as a warning sign, prohibition and anxiety. Green, on the contrary, allows you to perform desired actions, move forward confidently, without feeling danger. Each of them has its own characteristics, affecting the perception and psychological state of a person in different ways.

THE MEANING OF RED IN PSYCHOLOGY

Since ancient times, people have shown a special interest in the color red. In many languages, the same word means the color red and, in general, everything beautiful and beautiful. Among the Polynesians, the word "red" is synonymous with the word "beloved." In China, a sincere, frank person is said to have a “red heart,” while the heart of a bad, treacherous person is black.
Red - exciting, hot, activating, associated with danger and aggression. Reds can easily attract attention to any advertisement. Your pulse and blood pressure may increase if you look at red for too long. Red tires quickly.
People who prefer red love to be leaders. Almost all their senses are at their maximum. They are persistent and do not like to put things off. It often happens that those who prefer red are demonstrative and selfish, intolerant, stubborn and cruel. A woman in red is most often inclined to flirt with guys.
The color red also denotes power and greatness. In Byzantium, only the empress had the right to wear red boots. The emperor signed in purple ink and sat on a purple throne. For many peoples, the color red symbolizes the south, flame and heat.

Orange color in psychology

Orange is pretty close to yellow. It has similar features and properties. Cheerfulness, positive attitude, passion, readiness to solve complex problems, joy and spontaneity - all this is conveyed by this version of the palette. Orange has a positive effect on a person and lifts him out of a depressed state after heavy losses and disappointments. Included in the list of the best flowers for psychotherapy.

Lovers of this color have forgiving, easy-going, bright character traits. It is worth considering that their characteristic is inconstancy and arrogance.

Purple color in psychology

By combining red and blue, you get purple. Deciphering this shade has certain difficulties and several nuances. Most artists in ancient times painted pregnant girls using this shade of the palette. This phenomenon is explained by its consonance with sensuality.
In the modern world, experts claim that it has a negative and even depressive effect on humans. Most self-critical, gloomy, dissatisfied individuals with life prefer to surround themselves with purple objects and clothes. Applying it in large quantities you can get benefits, because purple inflates self-esteem. It is worth noting that this color is not used when working with elderly people and small children.

MEANING OF PINK

Pink is a soft color that dulls the emotions of anger and aggression. In places where children with antisocial behavior are corrected, pink walls or furniture are often used. If after a hard day you come home angry and aggressive, look at something pink and your aggression will disappear.
Pink can mean goodness, passion, romance, love. Those who prefer pink want to live life to the fullest, desire new experiences, are hardworking and do not like to rest. But sometimes people who prefer pink can be frivolous, childish, and love to show off in front of everyone.
Pink is the color of life, of all living things. He talks about the need to love and be kinder. Those who like him can become agitated over the most insignificant things. For people who are overly pragmatic, this color causes irritation.

Blue color

In psychology, this shade symbolizes calmness and contentment. It balances mood swings and other aspects of the human psyche, and evens out well-being throughout the day. It is recommended for decorating work areas and offices when it is necessary to develop discipline, diligence, organization, and leadership qualities in employees.
Blue color develops the ability to find profitable compromises and make cool, informed decisions. Contributes to the stable functioning of all systems of the human body, including mental processes.
Used as a balancing lever that restores sanity and promotes rapid rehabilitation of people with neuroses and other mental conditions. The entire psychology of the color of the sea is based on this.

Green color

It is a completely natural and most adapted color, which evokes only positive feelings in a person’s life.
Naturally, many shades of green can cause some unpleasant sensations, for example, neon. Over time, they irritate the visual analyzer, contributing to fatigue, and worsening well-being. But, besides this, neon shades improve appetite, causing a feeling of hunger. It is often used in rooms intended for eating.
Other shades of green are calmer and more peaceful. They have a beneficial effect on human vision and well-being. A return to the primitive beginning of man associates green with something natural and native, so it is perceived very easily in any interior, clothing and household details.

Black color - meaning in psychology

Many are sure that everything associated with black has a negative meaning, but in fact this is not the case.
It personifies authoritarianism, it has been proven that people in black clothes gain weight, so it is not surprising that rich people prefer it.
In some cases, the meaning of color indicates a serious psychological imbalance. If black predominates in children’s drawings, then it is necessary to urgently consult a specialist.
A person who prefers this color is a mystery and, by choosing such clothes, he unconsciously tries to attract the attention of others. If dark colors predominate in the wardrobe, then this indicates that such and such important things are missing in life.
In psychology, the color black has a connection with sexual attractiveness. People who love him agree to experiment in bed.

The meaning of white color in psychology

The lightest representative of the color spectrum is the personification of purity, innocence, joy and fidelity.
It means freedom of opportunity and the removal of all existing barriers. White color in psychology is a symbol of equality because it combines other shades.
A person who prefers white devotes himself completely to any task, wanting to bring it to perfection. He is open to the world and easily senses deception.
Understanding what colors mean, it is worth noting that this light shade also has an opposite meaning, which is due to the fact that it is able to neutralize other colors, personifying emptiness.

The meaning of gray in psychology

The middle neutral value between black and white is gray, so it does not distract from important matters. According to surveys, there are very few people who prefer it in their wardrobe and life in general.
Gray color in psychology means that the person who likes it puts reason first, not emotions. Clothes of this color give strength to insecure people.
A mixture of black and white is considered a shade of calm, balance, realism and order.
Doctors and psychologists are sure that people who love the color gray are on the verge of nervous and emotional exhaustion.

Yellow

The color of gold, which since ancient times has been perceived as a frozen solar color. This is the color of autumn, the color of ripe ears and fading leaves, but also the color of illness, death, the other world.
Among many nations, women preferred yellow clothes. Often the color yellow served as a distinctive feature of noble persons and upper classes. For example, Mongolian lamas wear yellow clothes with a red belt.
On the other hand, among some Asian peoples, yellow is the color of mourning, grief, and sadness. In Europe, a yellow or yellow-black flag meant quarantine, and a yellow cross meant plague. Among the Slavic peoples, yellow is considered the color of jealousy and betrayal, and in Tibet jealousy is literally called “yellow eye.” Let us also remember the “yellow press” and the “yellow house”

Blue color - meaning in psychology

If you want to calm down and inspire trust in another person, it is recommended to use blue. With its help you can evoke respect and emphasize your social status.
Blue color in psychology is a symbol of stability. It stimulates and motivates well, so it is recommended to paint the walls in the office with it.
Blue is a symbol of straightforwardness and stability.
This shade is used in hospital decoration because it has been proven that it gives strength to seriously ill people, helping them fight illnesses. Athletes training in a gym with blue walls achieve better results in competitions.

The meaning of brown in psychology

If a person prefers things with this shade in his life, then this indicates his self-confidence. Psychologists recommend using brown in moments of life when many problems arise. It gives a person hope that everything will turn out well.
The color brown in psychology means that people who choose it love to work and always tell the truth. When going to an interview, it is recommended to wear brown clothes.
It is associated with common sense, reliability and stability, but it is also associated with disappointment and depression.
The color brown combines red, which embodies aggression and activity, and yellow, which extinguishes these qualities.
When figuring out the meaning of colors, it is worth pointing out that fans of brown love life in all its manifestations, but at the same time they are reasonable. In critical situations, they can show composure and rationalism.
When it comes to sexual life, a “brown” person prefers conservatism and traditionalism. For him, the emotional state comes first, and then physiology.

Burgundy color - meaning in psychology

To form this shade, red and brown colors are used, so the characteristics inherent in them are transferred to burgundy. In life, it is preferred by strong business people who are conservative, confident and respectable.

In psychology, burgundy color represents power and strength. If you often use it in clothing, you can develop assertiveness, perseverance and determination.

It is important to consider that in large quantities, burgundy begins to negatively affect the psyche and can cause depression, so psychologists recommend using the color in doses.

When analyzing the meaning of colors, it is worth pointing out that people who wear burgundy are energetic and they have excellent organizational skills, but at the same time they are stingy with emotions.

Each color has its own meaning, its own character, which influences our lives and behavior much more than it seems. What is color psychology? How do colors affect our emotions? What does each color mean? What is the symbolism of flowers in different cultures? What is the meaning of colors in psychology? We associate each tone and shade with certain feelings, thoughts... In this article, we will familiarize you with the basic concepts of color psychology and give some tips on how you can use the influence of color in everyday life. You will learn how to apply the knowledge of this science in practice.

Psychology of color

Psychology of color: what it is and what it is used for

What is the meaning of colors in psychology? What does each color mean? There is a whole science of color, which includes knowledge about the nature, components, characteristics of color, color contrasts, harmony, etc., called coloristics. Psychology of color, in turn, explores what how does one color or another affect us?. Colors may change our perception feelings and even make us worry. With the help of color you can improve memory and attention, and even convince a person to make a particular decision. Knowing the meanings of colors is the key to understanding human behavior.

Color can completely change our understanding of a particular object, item or element. Imagine for a moment a toy for kids. Chances are you imagined a bright, cheerful rattle or a shiny, contrasting fun toy. Now imagine the same toy, only... completely black with silver details... shocking, right?

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Very likely. Despite the fact that there is no color code for certain things, throughout our lives we associate everything we see with certain colors. We do this every day and don't even think about it. However, when we suddenly notice, for example, a blue banana, orange eye lenses, or a sparkling yellow tree, it surprises us.

Research in the field of color psychology does not stop. Having this knowledge is key for creatives, businesses and companies planning to bring new products to market. However, this science is also useful in everyday life: how not to make a mistake when choosing a gift for a special occasion, how to please your best friend with the right present, how to create comfort in your home - understanding the psychology of color can help us with all this.

Color affects emotions and mental state. Psychology of Color: Brain and Emotions

Every day we carry out a huge number of tasks and are influenced by numerous stimuli. Our brains are constantly challenged. We don’t even always have enough time to process all the information received through our senses during the day.

That's why, the associations we have adopted about shape and color significantly save our time, since they are processed automatically.

Psychology of color: the symbolism of blue

The meaning of green

Green is the most natural color, the color of nature, grass, youth and hope, health, fertility, money. According to color psychology, it is also the color of freshness and harmony, peace, tranquility. People who protect nature are also called “green”.

However, this color also has its “dark” side. It is also associated with poison, with that which poisons us, as in the above example - “green with envy or anger.” Nevertheless, most of the meanings of this color are positive.

Neuropsychological

The meaning of brown

The color brown is associated with laziness, dirt, vulgarity, vagrancy and ugliness. It may seem outdated and boring. This is one of the most underrated flowers.

However, brown is also the color of wood and autumn, warmth and comfort. It is the color of chocolate and tan. This color surrounds us everywhere and evokes a huge number of diverse associations.

Psychology of color: what does the color brown mean?

Gray value

In color psychology, gray mainly symbolizes old age, modesty and simplicity. It can be dark, boring or bland, and even hide secrets and secrets. Hence the expressions – “gray scheme” or “gray salary”. On the other hand, this color reminds us of elegance in fashion or the “gray matter” of the brain.

What does black mean?

As with white, there is still ongoing debate about whether black is actually a color. According to color psychology, black is associated with night, power and death. It represents mystery, mourning, denial, hatred, cruelty, etc. Black cats are associated with bad luck and no one wants to experience a “rainy day.”

However... who doesn't have black things in their wardrobe? This color surrounds us everywhere, it is useful and functional. A beautiful black dress or suit is always an elegant option for evening wear.

Psychology of color: what does black mean?

Eva Geller's book “The Psychology of Color” talks in detail about the meaning of colors. This book is one of the main sources for this article.

Symbolism of color in different cultures

Research has been done on whether color classification is natural or determined by society. B. Berlin and P. Kay, having studied various cultures, came to the conclusion that among most cultures there are general trends in the categorization of colors. It is generally accepted that there are six primary colors, and everyone else is grouped around them in one way or another. The concepts of primary colors are the same, and then variations are possible.

As for the meanings: in Europe it is not customary to dress brightly for a funeral; black or dark colors are preferable. In Asia, mourning is symbolized by the color white, since this color is associated with ideas about reincarnation. However, earlier in Europe this color was widely used by women in mourning; they covered their heads with large white scarves.

However, within the framework of our culture color symbolism is not immutable. Did you know that in Europe they started dressing girls in pink and boys in blue around 1920? In recent years, this tradition has come under increasing criticism. Over time, we change the meanings of colors and create new traditions, which someday will also be forgotten or fashion will dictate its own new rules.

The company's brand is very important. If they tell us about the color red and a drink... no more hints are needed, we understand what company they are talking about. Different companies use certain colors and other visual elements in their logo in ways that convey their personality. The role of color is key in marketing strategies, and sciences such as neuromarketing study the effects of colors on the brain and human consumer behavior.

Imagine that the same restaurant chain will decorate each of its restaurants in completely opposite colors, without respecting the corporate style. In this case, our understanding of this brand will be blurred, we may not even remember that it is the same network. As a result, such a restaurant will lose many opportunities to retain and expand the customer base. Of course, the image, logo and corporate style are not everything, but they are important. Especially now, with a high level of competition in the market.

We can even see how companies use colors depending on the target audience or current trends in the market. For example, many add green light to their logo, which symbolizes ecology and environmental protection.

Color is not only important to clients and consumers. Employees will also feel better and be more productive if they work in a comfortable office or space. A dark, poorly lit space will have a negative impact on productivity and will force workers to spend as little time as possible at the workplace.

And vice versa, if we paint the walls white, add something green, blue and other warm colors to the interior (taking into account the corporate style), the workplace will become cozy.

How colors affect our daily lives

Colors play a big role in our lives every day. From birth we are asked what color we like, and everyone has their own preferences. Almost all the items that are sold are available in different color options. Therefore, when buying a cup, we will certainly choose our favorite color.

For more serious purchases, options are possible. The main thing here is not to make a mistake. Maybe you love the color orange, but when you buy a car you realize that you don't want to attract too much attention on the road. Therefore, the choice will probably fall on a car of a different color.

On the other hand, black or blue cars are difficult to see on the road at night. White color is very demanding when it comes to cleanliness, and you may want something “more cheerful”. Such doubts are resolved through much reflection and consultation with family and friends.

Neuropsychological

1 Your favorite color is not suitable for all occasions

You may love purple, but the color can be depressing if you over-decorate your room with it. However, it is a wonderful color to wear in clothing. You can create unusual, unusual combinations, for example, combining it with orange. But before you get dressed, always consider whether the outfit is appropriate for the particular occasion.

2 Context plays a key role in color choice

We know the meaning of color in different cultures and circumstances. Showing up to an interview for a lawyer position in a bright green suit with sequins is not entirely logical. In other situations, don't be afraid to experiment.

3 The main thing is to be able to combine colors

Let's imagine that we need to send an important letter or design a poster, and we have taken into account all the elements of color psychology. However, there is another aspect - how will the two colors work together? For example, brown combined with gold, yellow or orange is associated with autumn. However, in combination with black or gray, it becomes too conservative and inexpressive.

4 Colors Should Also Be Functional

When putting on a white shirt, who hasn't thought about how easily it can get dirty by anything during the day? There are colors that are more resistant to stains, or those that are more appropriate to wear in the heat, or those that will help us go unnoticed if we are not in the mood...

When writing a letter or creating a poster, it is important that the font color stands out from the background color. As much as we would like to write light pink on white, black on orange is much easier to see. Moreover, this is one of the most contrasting combinations.

5 Use colors to

If you're studying for an exam and can't remember, say, a list or list, try associating each item with a specific color. Mnemonic techniques increase our learning ability. The same method works if you need to give a presentation. Use color to highlight what's important and associate each color with a specific meaning.

6 Be consistent

If you have your own business or are just thinking about it, think in detail about what idea you want to convey to your clients. Once you've completed your analysis, determine what your brand needs to do to achieve these goals. It is important that all divisions of the company operate in the same corporate style. Choosing the right designer to develop a brand that can take all these aspects into account can be key to successfully launching or growing a business.

Thank you for reading this article. Are you now thinking about which colors surround you most in your daily life and why? Will you use the tips? As always, we would appreciate your questions and comments on the article.

Translation by Anna Inozemtseva

There is an expression: “gray everyday life,” meaning a dull, boring, colorless existence. It is colorless, devoid of the colors of life. Color is so important for a person that its long absence, for example, in late, cloudy autumn, is perceived as an ordeal. In psychology, there is even a term “color hunger” - a painful, depression-like condition experienced by a person forced to spend a long time in a colorless or monochrome world.

Color is of great importance in a person’s life and affects not only the psyche, but also the body as a whole.

We are so accustomed to the colors of the world that we do not perceive our color vision as a unique gift. Color for us is simply an attribute of a thing, sometimes making it more attractive, and sometimes, on the contrary, causing rejection. And since ancient times, color has been associated specifically with objects; it is not for nothing that many shades bear the names of specific objects:

  • brown (tree bark or cinnamon);
  • crimson;
  • orange;
  • green (zel – young shoots);
  • cherry, etc.

But the objects themselves have no color; their surface only reflects the light of the wave. The reflected rays hit the retina, and then the nerve impulse enters the visual part of the brain, where the sensation of color arises. And at dusk and at night there is not enough light, so the multicolored world disappears, drowns in darkness. We can say that the world around us acquires its colors only thanks to the work of our brain.

Different surfaces reflect light of a certain wavelength and absorb other rays. For example, young grass and leaves reflect light predominantly from the yellow-green part of the spectrum, and absorb red rays. Therefore, if you look at the crown of a tree through red glass, it will seem black, because glass does not transmit light from the green part of the spectrum.

The ability to perceive color is innate in humans, but it does not develop immediately:

  • Research has shown that the first ones are orange, yellow and red.
  • An adult can distinguish more than 120 colors and almost 10 million shades.

Of course, color perception is best developed among professional artists, but the average person also has something to brag about.

Our ability to distinguish an object from the surrounding background is also associated with color perception; it is called the discrimination of color spaces. And when the color of the object and the background color match, the effect of invisibility occurs.

Since the sensation of color is subjective, it is associated with a variety of mental processes, especially emotions. The effect of colors on humans is studied by a special field of psychological science - the psychology of color perception.

Color and emotions

The connection between colors and a person’s emotional state has been noticed for a long time. In the 19th century, the fundamental work “The Doctrine of Color” was published, dedicated to the emotional content of various shades. It is interesting that the author of this work was the famous German poet I. Goethe, who considered the book about color his main achievement.

In the 20th century, Goethe's brilliant guesses were confirmed by serious psychophysiological research, which proved that color affects not only emotions, but also the state of the body as a whole, for example, the functioning of the cardiovascular and digestive systems.

  • increases the level of any excitement: joyful, aggressive, sexual. It is hot, tonic, and at the same time red overloads our nervous system, so it quickly begins to irritate.
  • , on the contrary, relieves excitement, causes inhibition and “cools the ardor.” It is the color of peace, but it lacks joy, and the darker the blue, the gloomier it is.
  • considered neutral or optimal. This color balances the processes of excitation and inhibition and only slightly increases tone. Therefore, green, as Goethe said, not only gives rest to the soul, but also increases efficiency.
  • - also hot, invigorating, but not as exciting as red, so it is not as irritating and well stimulates various physiological processes, for example, awakens appetite.
  • - the most cheerful and cheerful of flowers. It even stimulates thinking. But, on the other hand, too bright and cheerful a color can quickly tire not only the eyes, but also the psyche.
  • causes a feeling of coolness and peace. It is the one that most effectively lowers blood pressure and reduces excitation in the cerebral cortex. But in large quantities this color causes a feeling of laziness and apathy.
  • even more passive than blue and blue, and also gloomy. It not only reduces activity and performance, but can cause feelings of anxiety and depression, a tendency towards mysticism and philosophical reflection.
  • the most stable, conservative. It calms without depressing, and evokes a feeling of confidence in the immutability of existence. Brown has a beneficial effect on people who are tired of the frantic pace of life and the diversity of the modern city.
  • - the most unusual of flowers. On the one hand, it would seem that this is not color at all, but its absence. On the other hand, physics tells us that white color is obtained from a combination of all the colors of the spectrum. One way or another, this color is perceived by humans as cold emptiness. It can create a feeling of cleanliness and freshness, but its abundance creates an urgent need for color.
  • - a gloomy color, a symbol of denial and rejection of the beauty of the world, and sometimes of life. Often this color awakens deep, irrational fears in people.
  • Gray is the most dull and “colorless” color; it creates an atmosphere of boredom and hopelessness.

Despite the fact that the psycho-emotional component is the main one, it is not worth focusing only on it. Our perception of color is influenced by many factors, including various associations and cultural, religious and political symbolism accepted in society.

Color associations


Association example. What do you see and feel when you look at the picture?

As already mentioned, colors in our minds are strongly associated with similarly colored objects, so they evoke associations with them:

  • the color orange is associated with orange;
  • yellow - with lemon;
  • brown - with earth or bread;
  • red - with blood, etc.

These strong, stable connections cause a very interesting effect, called synesthesia in psychology. It manifests itself when, under the influence of one stimulus, in our case color, another sensation arises. For example:

  • the lemon-yellow color, associated with lemon, gives many people the impression of a sour taste and even causes increased salivation;
  • snowy white evokes a feeling of cold;
  • red and orange appear hot due to their association with fire.

Cultural associations are even more diverse, which are sometimes even more significant for people than the psychophysiological effects of flowers.

  • Thus, black in European culture is not only a symbol of darkness and death, but also a symbol of elegance and aristocracy. The formation of this perception was influenced by the decades-long fashion for black tailcoats and frock coats among respectable men.
  • Green symbolizes the rebirth of nature and life, as it is associated with young spring foliage.
  • But the symbolism of yellow in European culture is not at all cheerful, since for several centuries yellow flags were raised by ships infected with the plague.
  • In Russia before the revolution, a “yellow ticket” was issued to public women, and a psychiatric hospital was called a “yellow house.”
  • The color red in Russian culture is not only the color of aggression and struggle, but also a color symbol of national identity, which has very ancient roots in Slavic paganism.

Of course, despite the persistence of traditions, color symbolism changes, but it remains in fashion. After all, color code is an important part of human culture.

How do we see colors, and how does our color perception differ from animals? Find out from the video.

Coloristics

Color is the property of light to cause a certain visual sensation in accordance with the spectral composition of the reflected or emitted radiation. Light of different wavelengths excites different color sensations; Radiations from 380 to 470 nm are violet and blue, from 470 to 500 nm - blue-green, from 500 to 560 nm - green, from 560 to 590 nm - yellow-orange, from 590 to 760 nm - red. However, the color of complex radiation is not uniquely determined by its spectral composition.

  • Hue(color) - name of the color (red, blue,...).
  • Intensity- level of color concentration (predominance of one or another tone).
  • Depth- the degree of brightness or dullness of the color tonality.
  • Lightness- degree of whiteness (% presence of white and light gray tones in the color).
  • Saturation- % presence of dark gray and black tones.
  • Brightness- a characteristic of luminous bodies, equal to the ratio of the intensity of light in any direction to the area of ​​​​the projection of the luminous surface onto a plane perpendicular to this direction.
  • Contrast- the ratio of the difference in brightness of the object and background to their sum.

Color is a qualitative characteristic of electromagnetic radiation in the optical range, determined on the basis of the emerging physiological visual sensation of color. Color depends primarily on the spectrum.
The sensation of color occurs in the sensitive cells of the retina of a person or other animal - the cones. There are three types of cones - “red”, “green” and “blue”, respectively, each color sensation is represented as the sum of the sensations of these three colors.

Color affects a person’s physiological processes and his psychological state. Knowing the characteristics of each color, you can form a certain image, evoke certain emotions and associations.

Red

Red color (compensating green) is the most active. This is a rich, heavy, hot, bright color. It symbolizes passionate love, power, fire, war. Light shades of red are stimulating, dark shades give solidity. Red color corresponds to the planet Mars.

For the Chinese, red is a symbol of good luck, happiness, nobility, and for the Indians it represents life and action.

Stimulates, supplies very strong, but quite rough energy. Promotes activity, confidence, friendliness. In large quantities it can provoke rage and anger.

Physiology: stimulates the nervous system, releases adrenaline, improves blood circulation, increases the number of red cells in the blood, increases sexuality and sexual desire.
Psychology: gives a sense of security, confidence in the future, helps to cope with troubles easier. Forms a leader.

Orange

Orange color (compensating for blue, cyan) is low-saturated, warm, light, sexy. It has a stimulating effect. Orange color stimulates the emotional sphere, creates a feeling of well-being and fun. It symbolizes pleasure, celebration, nobility. Orange color corresponds to Mercury.

Releases emotions, raises self-esteem, teaches forgiveness. An excellent antidepressant, promotes a good mood. Pastel shades (apricot, peach) restore nervous energy.

Physiology: located between the red and yellow colors of the spectrum, therefore it has the properties of these two colors. Gives energy like red and promotes thought process like yellow.
Psychology: clears unpleasant feelings, helps to accept negative events in life (for example, a breakup or the loss of a loved one), helps to forgive another person, let go of an insoluble situation. If you are at a dead end and afraid of changes that will open up new horizons in life, turn to the color orange.

Yellow

Yellow color (compensating purple) is warm, light, bright, flowing, joyful. It evokes pleasant sensations and symbolizes movement, joy and fun. Yellow color promotes the activation of mental activity. Yellow - remains in memory for a long time. But in combination with other colors it can evoke opposite emotions. For example, greenish-yellow and gray-yellow shades personify envy, falsehood and have a repulsive effect. Yellow color corresponds to the Sun.

In Brazil, this color is a symbol of despair, and in combination with purple it is a symbol of illness; among Syrian Muslims it is a symbol of death. In China, on the contrary, yellow is very popular as it is a symbol of empire and splendor. For Russian people, yellow is a sign of separation and betrayal.

A joyful, stimulating color. It is associated with intelligence and expressiveness. It increases concentration, organizes, improves memory, and promotes fair and quick decision making.
Yellow helps you accept new ideas and other people's points of view. This is the color of optimism.

Physiology: treats the digestive system well and ensures its functioning. Mainly affects the flow of bile, which plays a role in the absorption and digestion of fats. Improves memory.
Psychology: sets feelings in motion, frees from negativity, which undermines self-confidence. Makes it easier to accept new ideas and accept different points of view. It promotes better self-organization and concentration of thought. For children: increases cognitive interest. Can be used for children's rooms, but in limited quantities, otherwise children will not be able to sleep peacefully.

Green

Green color (compensating for red) is rich, calm, fresh, gentle, calming, lively. It has a calming effect. It symbolizes peace, tranquility, love, salvation. Green color corresponds to the planet Venus.
Green is a popular color in Mexico, Australia, Ireland and Egypt. In China, green symbolizes luxurious life and youth; in India - peace and hope.

Life, growth, harmony. It unites us with nature and helps us be closer to each other.

Physiology: helps with negative conditions: imbalance, anger, rudeness, stiffness in emotions and feelings.
Psychology: when you lack green, you are deprived of harmony. Not recommended if you need to make quick decisions, as green is relaxing.

Blue

Blue color (compensating orange) is slightly saturated, light, airy, cool, calm, slightly passive. It symbolizes purity, intelligence, constancy and tenderness. If there is too much blue, it can cause laziness and apathy.

For the Chinese, blue is one of the mourning colors; in India - a symbol of truthfulness; in Brazil it is a symbol of sadness.

Blue is considered the color of creativity and is recommended for classrooms or offices. The turquoise hue promotes communication.

Physiology: helps with insomnia, helps you fall asleep, as it has a relaxing effect. Has an astringent and anti-inflammatory effect.
Psychology: helps with negative mental states: shyness, fear of speaking, bad relationships.
With the help of blue, you can detach yourself from the outside world and, left alone with your thoughts, contemplate and reflect calmly. When engaging in meditative practices, it is useful to light a blue candle or a blue lamp. Promotes creativity.

Blue

The blue color (compensating for the orange) is very rich and very cool. It is heavy, strict, mysterious, pure. The first feeling it evokes is a feeling of wariness. The blue color symbolizes the universe, space and corresponds to the planet Jupiter.

Calming color. It promotes physical and mental relaxation, creates an atmosphere of security and trust.

Physiology: treats deafness, cataracts, bleeding, insomnia. Is an anesthetic. Helps with sore throats and rheumatism. Affects the endocrine system.
Psychology: develops mental abilities. Clears thinking, frees you from worries and fears, allows you to hear your inner voice and make the right decision (intuition). With indigo it is easier to move to more subtle levels of consciousness. Not recommended for people prone to seasonal depression.

Violet

Violet color (compensating yellow) is rich, cold, heavy, calm, mysterious. It symbolizes wisdom, maturity, higher intelligence. Violet color is easily suppressed by other colors, but violet color itself is deep and expressive. It gives clothes a solemn and luxurious look. In large quantities, the color purple causes melancholy. Corresponds to the planet Uranus.

Associated with artistry, great ideas, intuition and mysticism. It promotes inspiration, compassion, sensitivity.

A majestic color that has always been present in the clothing of kings and clergy. This is the color of inspiration, which is characteristic of healers and creative individuals. It will help you learn to accept everything that happens to you with a calm heart, calm your soul and nourish it with the energy of inspiration. Purple unites the body and mind, material needs with the needs of the soul. People with a predominance of violet color in their aura make skilled healers, and if they are creative, their works are distinguished by their naturalness and language that is understandable to everyone. Violet balances the two ends of the spectrum, and also balances the masculine and feminine energies in the human body.

Physiology: treats physiological diseases: concussion, epilepsy, neuralgia, multiple sclerosis. Not recommended for people with severe mental illness and alcoholism.
Psychology: helps with negative mental states: neurosis, loss of faith, despair, loss of self-esteem.

Tones:

Black-: motivated use of force, creation, learning, ability to foresight, meaningfulness, hidden treasures, destructiveness, use of force as a manifestation of weakness and selfishness, suppression, depression, emptiness, abstinence, restrictions. Black hides what he has. A person who prefers it seeks to hide his inner world from others. Black symbolizes the end. Every evening we are happy to return to the night to recuperate. But it is he who gives rise to everything new. Life begins with the unknown. Black is able to control the situation thanks to secret knowledge. Black seeks to maintain his power by any means necessary. On the other hand, this person feels the need for external control.
Power, sexuality, complexity, formality, elegance, richness, mystery, fear, evil, anonymity, discontent, depth, style, sadness, remorse, anger, underground, good techno color, mourning, death (Western cultures).

White- intactness, completeness, dedication, unity, lightness, revealing the hidden and false, isolation, sterility, numbness, disappointment, stiffness, boredom. The main quality of white is equality. White color seeks justice. He is impartial. White color symbolizes innocence. This is the color of a real bride, a girl who has not yet known passion. White is characterized by a certain density. Holding a transparent crystal in your hands, you see the Radiance in front of you. When you pick up a white cotton sheet, you can't see anything through it. White is one step below the impeccable purity of Radiance. White contains all the colors of the spectrum equally, being the result of their mixing. Therefore, white can be used to create certain combinations. All colors in white are equal. In mythology, white serves as a symbol of unity. White seeks justice. The white wig on the judge's head indicates his impartiality. White is a spiritual guardian. If white is present, then everything will be fine. A doctor in a white coat snatches a man from the jaws of death.
Reverence, purity, simplicity, peace, humility, precision, innocence, youth, birth, winter, snow, good, sterility, marriage (Western cultures), death (Eastern cultures), cold, clinical, sterile.

Grey- safety, reliability, intelligence, sedate, modesty, dignity, completeness, firm, conservative, practical, old age, sadness.

Grey, black and white(tones) - are the connecting link for colors. They have no effect. They are a background for flowers and increase the intensity of the color nearby, and when added, they increase the lightness (light gray, white) or saturation (dark gray, black) of the color.

Psychological effects of color

When talking about the psychological impact of color, it is important to take into account the fact that different societies have different points of view. Even independent research results on the effects of color sometimes bear the imprint of belonging to a particular cultural group of people whose opinions have been formed over the centuries.

The symbolic meaning of flowers has developed among certain peoples over the centuries. Take, for example, black and white colors. In the West, black is perceived as a serious, dramatic, and sometimes sad color. When using black color in decoration, warnings are often heard about its depressing effect. Traditionally, black is the color of mourning. White color, on the contrary, is associated with purity, peacefulness, and optimism. Therefore, wedding dresses in Western countries are traditionally white. It would never occur to anyone to wear white clothes to a funeral ceremony, or for a bride to attend a wedding in a black dress. However, in some Eastern countries, white, and not black, is the color of mourning.

Each color has its own magical power. It’s not just that a wedding dress should be white, because it is a symbol of purity. The roses we give to our loved ones should be red. Each color has its own magical symbol. We encourage you to read about primary colors and what they mean.

Magic of color

White

Divine color. Symbol of light, purity and truth. In most countries (European countries, China, Egypt, etc.) white is the color of mourning clothes. White robes were used to initiate the deceased into a new life.
This is the color of joy and celebration.
Controversial symbol. Combining light and life on the one hand, and old age, blindness and death on the other. In China, white was associated with both treachery and purity. The Scandinavian goddess of death Hel, who lives in the icy (white) world of death Hel, has a deathly white face.
Everyone knows the expression “white crow,” but what is a “white elephant”? This expression came to us from ancient Siam. To get rid of an unwanted courtier, the King of Siam gave him a large white elephant. The cost of feeding the animal quickly ruined the courtier, and it was impossible to get rid of the royal gift. Since then, a large, impressive, but useless acquisition has been called a “white elephant.” “Lily-colored liver” (“white liver”) - the expression comes from the belief that the liver of cowards has no blood. “Show a white feather” - show cowardice. The expression comes from cockfighting. Red and black roosters have been observed to rip feathers from the tails of the more cowardly white roosters.
Interestingly, the word “candidate” comes from the Latin “candidus” (“dazzling white”).
White dove - symbolizes peace, the Holy Spirit.
White eggs - creation.
White flag - voluntary surrender, truce.
White is the color of cleansing from sins, baptism and communion, the holidays of Christmas, Easter and Ascension.
In alchemy, white is associated with mercury.

Blue

Blue, like white, is a divine color. Blue is associated with Jupiter, Juno, Amon-Ra, Vishnu and other gods.
In China, blue is a symbol of Tao. The Sacred Path, the principle of existence.
Like white, blue is the color of truth, fidelity, chastity and justice in the Christian tradition.
Light blue color is a symbol of the incomprehensible and wonderful.

Yellow

The symbolism of yellow largely depends on its tone. Warm yellow tones are a symbol of an unbreakable marriage, and cold yellow tones are a symbol of adultery (the color of cuckolds in France).
Yellow is the color of gold, a symbol of the sun and divine power.
In Greek mythology, yellow is the color of Apollo. In China, yellow is the color of the emperor. During the Qing Dynasty, only the emperor had the right to wear yellow clothes.
In addition, yellow is the color of betrayal, jealousy, cowardice, and lies. In some European countries, the doors of the houses of criminals and traitors were smeared with yellow. Judas and Cain are usually depicted with yellow beards. During World War II, in Nazi-occupied countries, Jews were required to wear yellow “bands of shame.” Yellow color was chosen by Gautama Buddha as a symbol of humility.
Yellow is the color of illness. A yellow cross was placed on plague houses. A yellow flag on board the ship indicated that there were infectious patients on board. Now the yellow flag is raised when they want to say that there are no sick people on the ship (when entering a foreign port).
In football and in traffic rules, yellow is a warning.

Brown

Color and all its shades (the color of earth) are preferred by those who have firmly and confidently stood on their feet. People who have a soft spot for him value traditions and family. When he is unpleasant, it speaks of pride and selfishness, that this person is secretive and has difficulty being frank.

Red

The color red symbolizes blood, fire, anger, war, revolution, strength and courage. In addition, red is the color of life. Prehistoric man sprinkled blood on the object he wanted to revive.
In ancient Rome, the color red symbolized divinity. It is the color of the nobility, patricians and emperors of Rome. A symbol of supreme power, which later passed to the cardinals. After victory, Roman generals painted their faces (in honor of Mars) red.
The Red Ensign has been in use in the British Navy since the 17th century and symbolizes a "challenge to battle."
The red flag was used during the Paris Commune of 1817, in our country during the uprising of 1905, the revolution of 1917 and the next few decades. The term "Reds" is often used to refer to communists.
Red is the color of anarchy. Supporters of the Italian national leader Giuseppe Garibaldi (1807-1882) were called “red shirts” because they wore red shirts as a sign of disobedience to the authorities.
The red rose is a symbol of love and beauty. The expression “red calendar day” comes from the custom of marking saints’ days and other church dates with red ink.
This color is used to warn of danger (for example, road signs).
The area where the brothels are located is called the “red light” area, since these are the lights that used to hang in front of such establishments.

Orange

The favorite color of people with intuition and passionate dreamers. According to heraldry, this color also means hypocrisy and pretense. In heraldry - the color of meanness and betrayal.

Pink

The favorite color of sensible and distrustful people who think for a long time before making any decision. It is also a neutral color favored by those who are afraid to make a statement too loudly. If you don’t like this color, then this is an indicator of an impulsive, frivolous character.

Blue

The color of the sky and sea, a symbol of height and depth. Constancy, loyalty, justice, perfection and peace.
In ancient Egypt, blue was used to represent truth. Blue is the color of Zeus (Jupiter) and Hera (Juno).
The Order of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry of the British Crown, wears a wide blue ribbon. The order was founded in 1348 by Edward III.
Blue is the color of royalty and noble birth.
The expression "blue blood" for people of high birth originated from the belief that the veins of Spanish aristocrats were "bler" than those of common people.
The expression “bluestocking” in relation to a learned lady dates back to the 15th century, when a society of men and women engaged in the study of science gathered in Venice, blue stockings being their distinctive attribute of clothing. This custom was adopted by Parisian intellectuals in the 1590s. The term itself originated in England in 1750.
Blue is the color of the British Conservative Party.
In Christianity, blue symbolizes sincerity, prudence and piety.

Violet

The color speaks of very great emotionality, sensitivity, high spirituality and delicacy. When it is unpleasant, it is a sign of a developed sense of duty, a desire to live only in the present. This is a typical color of harmoniously developed people.

Black

Black is a symbol of night, death, repentance, sin, silence and emptiness. Since black absorbs all other colors, it also expresses denial and despair, is the opposition to white, and denotes a negative principle. In the Christian tradition, black symbolizes grief, mourning and mourning.
The custom of wearing black as a sign of grief and at funerals arose out of prejudice. People believed that in this case the spirit of the deceased could not recognize them and therefore harm them. The veil on the face was intended to confuse the demons and prevent them from dragging another soul to hell.
The custom of wearing a black bandage on the left sleeve as a sign of grief dates back to chivalric times, when the lady of the heart would put a bandage on the arm of a knight as a sign that he served her. Later, the bandage became a sign of fidelity to the departed wife.
In Japan, black is the color of joy.
In a British court, squares of black cloth were torn by the judge when pronouncing the death sentence. The Black Death is the name of the bubonic plague epidemic that killed approximately 25,000,000 people in Europe alone in 1348.

The information was collected, for objectivity, from various sources.
Sources of information: www.rosdesign.com, www.colorzony.ru, www.rassion.ru, www.wikipedia.org, www.astroguide.ru