Looking at this colour can increase your optimism
Between the housing crisis, the Trump presidency and the imminent arrival of winter, if you're feeling a little glum then it's likely understandable.
However, Pantone hopes to give the world a much-needed pick-me-up with a new colour called “Natural Optimism” – a light shade of blue which has been created to give people a psychological boost.
Research conducted by British tea brand Twinning’s revealed that 12.8 million Britons don't feel optimistic in their day-to-day-lives. However, the same survey revealed that 56 per cent of people feel more optimistic when they see blue skies and 89 per cent believe that being outdoors makes them feel more optimistic about their lives.
"When you feel optimistic, the feeling is utterly contagious," Vicky Keena, head of brand at Twinings, said. "Optimism has a knock-on effect and when life feels brighter, we're more likely to make positive choices that make us feel good inside and out."
Using this information, Pantone designed the airy blue hue, known as Natural Optimism, to remind people of clear blue skies, blooming flowers and relaxing summer weather.
'While cool in temperature, blues – particularly the softer mid-tone shades – speak to spring and summer when all of nature’s colours are in full bloom,' Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Colour Institute, said.
"Natural Optimism, an airy and weightless blue shade with an undertone of sunny yellow warmth, uniquely conveys this feeling of delight."
How to incorporate Natural Optimism
Make your home’s decor more optimistic by subtly incorporating the mood-boosting blue into your home.
Start small by selecting pieces that can seamlessly fit into the decor you already have, for example, cushions, vases, candles and artwork. Go one step further by experimenting with various shades of blue to add depth.
Alternatively, you could take it one step further by using Natural Optimism (or a similar shade of paint) to create a mood-boosting feature wall to remind yourself of blue skies and summer as the weather gets cooler.
Written by Natalia Didovich. First appeared on Stuff.co.nz.