Though it is mostly subconscious, colours are seen to affect your moods in a variety of ways. Whether it's the colour of a room, the shade of a blouse or the hues of a painting, the mood changes are noticeable when closely observed. Colours have been known to have a psychological effect on moods ranging from tranquility to rage and from clarity to disorientation. People naturally feel more secure when they are surrounded by colours that complement their individual personalities.

The right combination of colours in a house or office can even help reduce stress.

Here are some of the universal associations with the basic colours:

Orange: Revitalizing this is associated with our second chakra. Good for stimulating appetite and deep breathing, in other words the taking in of energy.

Red: The most emotionally intense colour, red stimulates the heart to beat faster and breathing to increase.

White  is associated with light. As such, it is often linked to goodness, innocence, purity and virginity.

Yellow: Energizes. It simulates proper nerve function and assists our endocrine system and liver to function optimally.

Black is the colour of authority and power. Black also implies submission.

Green: The colour of love and our heart chakra (along with pink).

Blue: Restful. Soothing, calm, and can help lower blood pressure and anxiety.

Purple: Relaxing. Encourages sleep and a lower heart rate.

No matter what your favourite colour is, remember it reveals something about your character and your personality. The colour you wear, and the colour you are around all day affects your mood.