THE SYMBOLISM OF COLORS
“Dive into the fascinating world of colors, where each shade tells a story, awakens emotions and influences our daily lives.
From the soothing blue of the oceans to the passionate red of the sunset, these vibrant shades span cultures and eras, resonating with our souls.
Discover how these colors, with their mystical origins and deep meanings, enrich our world, inspiring everything from interior design to our spiritual well-being.
Written by Lionel Pradeau
Collapsible content
Reading time
About 18 min
THE ART OF LIVING IN COLOR!
The colors that surround us have much more than a purely aesthetic appeal. They are inspiring and always reveal virtues that are unique to us. We all have our own opinions about colors, but we now know that the human brain reacts to colors and the vibrations that influence each of them on us, consciously or unconsciously. The principles of color therapy emphasize the interaction of colors with different parts of our body.
This ancestral language allows us to better understand our emotions and moods in contemporary society. We distinguish 7 colors or 7 chakras to speak of "color therapy" or "chromotherapy."
Knowing the vibratory dimension of light radiation thanks to recent discoveries in quantum physics, this has proven to us that the human body, being composed of electromagnetic frequencies, is a field of condensed light, and in fact thanks to chromotherapy, we can consider that each color which has a wavelength has an effect on the organism by triggering intracellular photo-biochemical reactions.
Color perception tests can lead to the establishment of a psycho-emotional profile, but before talking to you about colors and their contemporary symbolism, here is some information on ancestral knowledge.
"Let's take a look"!
Identity Card of the Colors
First of all, color is simply a shade.
Then we can express ourselves on its intensity, this is what we call saturation; it is either saturated i.e. bright or dull i.e. desaturated.
Then we talk about value which is an indication of comparison; we talk about light or dark of one color to another.
Finally, we express a color by its temperature; we speak of warm colors or cold colors. This notion allows us to perceive feelings as well as landscapes.
To conclude this quick presentation of what color is in general, we can say that each of the colors described below varies from one culture to another and always engages us very emotionally towards extrapolations that make us "fall" for this or that object...
TURQUOISE, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Turquoise is a calming color, often associated with tropical waters and clear skies. This unique hue combines the qualities of blue and green, creating a sense of calm and rejuvenation. Turquoise evokes serenity, emotional balance, and purification. It is frequently used to promote clear communication and creative thinking, aiding self-expression and spiritual growth. In the context of wellness, turquoise encourages regeneration and relaxation, balancing the energies of the body and mind.
Origins through the Ages
Turquoise has been revered across many ancient cultures for its protective and healing properties. In ancient Egypt, it was considered a sacred stone, symbolizing protection and healing, and was often used in the jewelry of pharaohs. Native Americans saw turquoise as a bridge between earth and heaven, a stone of great spiritual value that brought wisdom and protection. In Persia, it was used as a talisman against misfortune and to attract good fortune. Throughout the ages, turquoise has been a symbol of eternity, health, and deep spirituality.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Turquoise is a popular color in modern design, particularly in spaces dedicated to wellness and relaxation. In yoga products, it is frequently chosen for mats, cushions, and accessories, due to its association with tranquility and harmony. Turquoise also finds its place in interior design, where it is used to bring a touch of freshness and brightness. This color is ideal for creating relaxing atmospheres in bedrooms, bathrooms, and meditation spaces, where it can be combined with neutral or natural tones for a calming and balancing effect.
GREEN, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Green is the color of nature and life. It embodies harmony, balance, and renewal. Representing growth, it is often associated with fertility, freshness, and life energy. Green is a soothing color that evokes stability and calm, allowing the mind to center itself and the body to revitalize. In the context of wellness and yoga, green is the color of the heart chakra, symbolizing unconditional love, healing, and compassion.
Origins through the Ages
Since ancient times, green has been revered for its deep connection with nature. In ancient Egypt, it represented regeneration and eternal life, often associated with the god Osiris, a symbol of rebirth. In the Middle Ages, green embodied luck and hope, a color worn by knights seeking success in their endeavors. In Chinese tradition, green is linked to the east, spring, and the vitality of wood, a fundamental element in the cycle of life. Throughout the ages, green has always been perceived as a force of life, a color that restores and renews.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Green occupies a prominent place in contemporary design, particularly in the fields of wellness and interior design. In yoga-related products, green mats, cushions, and accessories not only appeal visually; they create an environment conducive to relaxation and healing. Green, used in meditation spaces or yoga studios, strengthens the connection to nature and encourages a serene atmosphere. In interior design, green is often used to bring a touch of nature indoors, creating spaces that soothe and revitalize.
OCEANIC BLUE, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Blue is the quintessential color of tranquility and rest. Associated with the sky and oceans, it evokes infinity, depth, and immensity. This color inspires confidence, serenity, and stability, while calming the mind and body. Blue is also known for its positive effects on blood pressure, as well as its antispasmodic properties that promote the release of tension. In the context of wellness and yoga, blue is a color that aids deep meditation, facilitating introspection and openness to sincere communication.
Origins through the Ages
Throughout the ages, blue has been a color of prestige, often associated with the divine and sacred. In ancient Egypt, it was obtained from precious stones such as lapis lazuli and symbolized divine protection and wisdom. During the Middle Ages, blue gained prominence, particularly in religious art where it was used to depict the Virgin Mary, embodying purity and faith. In ancient China, blue was associated with immortality and imperial authority. Blue also became the color of nobility and royalty in Europe, thanks to its high cost and rarity, conferring elevated status on those who wore it.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Blue is widely used in contemporary design to create spaces of calm and relaxation. In yoga and wellness products, shades of blue are often favored for rugs, meditation accessories, and clothing, as they enhance feelings of inner peace and security. In interior design, blue is a versatile color, used to visually enlarge a space or to create a serene and refreshing atmosphere. Light hues like sky blue evoke lightness and openness, while deeper blues like navy blue bring a touch of elegance and sophistication, transforming an interior into a haven of peace.
PURPLE, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Purple is a color deeply linked to spirituality, meditation, and introspection. It embodies nobility of spirit, wisdom, and elegance, while evoking feelings of mystery and enchantment. This color, often associated with dreams and imagination, inspires a deep connection with the inner world, facilitating meditation and the exploration of spiritual dimensions. Purple is also a calming color that can relieve stress and promote a state of calm and serenity, particularly useful in yoga and relaxation practices.
Origins through the Ages
Throughout the ages, purple has been a color of prestige, reserved for royalty and elites due to the scarcity of pigments to produce it. In ancient times, it symbolized power and wealth, and the Romans used it for imperial vestments. In medieval Europe, purple was also the color of liturgical vestments, representing penance and spirituality. In Eastern culture, purple is associated with nobility and prosperity. It has always been perceived as a transcendental color, connecting the material and spiritual, and continues to symbolize dignity and wisdom across cultures.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Purple is a powerful color in interior design, used to create luxurious and soothing atmospheres. In the context of wellness, this color is ideal for spaces dedicated to meditation and relaxation, bringing a touch of mystery and sophistication. yoga mat and other accessories in purple are often chosen to encourage a deep meditative state and strengthen spiritual energy. In interior design, purple can transform a room into a sanctuary of peace, especially when combined with natural elements and soft textures, creating a space conducive to relaxation and reflection.
PARMA LAVENDER, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Parma lavender is a delicate color that immediately evokes softness, serenity, and calm. Inspired by the eponymous plant, this shade embodies a sense of peace and relaxation, reminiscent of vast lavender fields swaying in the wind. Parma lavender is often associated with purity and simplicity, while also suggesting a deep connection with nature. This color soothes the mind, promoting meditation and well-being, and is ideal for creating an environment of relaxation and tranquility.
Origins through the Ages
Parma lavender draws its essence from the lavender plant, which has been used since ancient times for its healing and soothing properties. In the Mediterranean, lavender has always been revered for its captivating fragrance and therapeutic virtues, symbolizing purity and peace. In medieval Europe, lavender was considered a protective herb, used in rituals to ward off evil spirits. Parma lavender, as a color, has become over time a symbol of refinement and delicacy, often associated with aristocracy and understated elegance.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Parma lavender is a popular color in interior design for its ability to transform a space into a haven of peace. In the wellness and yoga fields, this shade is frequently used for rugs, cushions, and other accessories to create a calming and comforting atmosphere. Parma lavender is also perfect for bedrooms and relaxation areas, where it evokes tranquility and restful sleep. Combined with neutral tones or natural textures, this color can bring a touch of freshness and lightness, while maintaining a sense of understated elegance.
PINK, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Pink is a soft and soothing color, symbolizing tenderness, love, and femininity. It embodies purity of emotion, compassion, and gentleness, evoking feelings of security and kindness. Associated with childhood and innocence, pink inspires notions of simple happiness and delicacy. It is a color that invites an open heart, the expression of love in all its forms, and empathy. In the context of wellness and yoga, pink promotes a serene environment, conducive to meditation and relaxation, supporting positive emotions and an overall sense of inner peace.
Origins through the Ages
Over the centuries, pink has evolved into a symbol of femininity and romance. In art and fashion, it has been used to express elegance and softness, particularly in 18th-century France, where it was highly prized at the royal court. In Asia, pink is often associated with youth, spring, and new life, symbolizing renewal and fleeting beauty. Pink also holds an important place in cultural and spiritual rituals, representing compassion and divine love. Over time, this color has become universally recognized as a symbol of affection and tenderness.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Pink is widely used in interior design to create warm and comforting spaces. In yoga and wellness products, pink is often chosen for its calming effects, whether for rugs, cushions, or accessories, encouraging relaxation and comfort. In interior design, pink can be used to soften a room, adding a touch of romance and delicacy. Subtle shades of pink, such as dusty pink or blush, are particularly effective at creating a soft and welcoming ambiance, while brighter pinks can energize a space and bring joy.
RED, ITS SYMBOLISM
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Red is an intense color that symbolizes passion, energy, and vitality. Associated with love and life force, this powerful hue evokes deep and sometimes conflicting emotions. It embodies warmth, boldness, and courage, while also being able to represent danger, anger, or determination. Burgundy red, darker and more sophisticated than bright red, adds a dimension of luxury and elegance, reinforcing its appeal in contexts where intensity and depth of feeling are valued. In the context of wellness and yoga, red can stimulate motivation and vital energy, creating an atmosphere of dynamism and inner strength.
Origins through the Ages
Red has always been a color of great significance across cultures and eras. In ancient times, it symbolized blood, life, and power, used in rituals to invoke protection and strength. In the Middle Ages, burgundy red was associated with nobility and the clergy, a shade reserved for the rich and powerful due to the complexity of its manufacture. In Asia, red is traditionally a color of happiness, luck, and celebration. Burgundy red, with its richness and depth, has over time become a symbol of refinement and status, often associated with material wealth and suppressed passion.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Burgundy red is a bold and elegant color in interior design, bringing warmth and character to any space. In yoga and wellness products, this shade is used to encourage energy and focus, while adding a touch of luxury and sophistication. In interior design, burgundy red can be used to create dramatic accents or to anchor a room with a sense of comfort and intimacy. Paired with rich materials like dark wood or velvet, it can transform a space into a warm and welcoming place, while maintaining an atmosphere of distinction and prestige.
ORANGE CORAL, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Coral orange is a vibrant and warm color, symbolizing energy, vitality, and youth. This hue, located between orange and pink, embodies a sense of joie de vivre and positivity. It evokes creativity, enthusiasm, and optimism, bringing with it a dynamic and stimulating atmosphere. Coral orange is often associated with passion and pleasure, while also being a symbol of warmth and conviviality. In the context of wellness and yoga, this color can be used to revitalize the spirit, promote enthusiasm, and encourage a joyful approach to life.
Origins through the Ages
Coral has been revered since ancient times, not only for its beauty but also for its protective properties. In Mediterranean cultures, coral was considered a powerful talisman against evil, and its use was reflected in jewelry and amulets. Orange, as a color, has often been associated with the sun, warmth, and prosperity, playing a central role in festivals and celebrations. Over time, orange coral has become a symbol of luxury and refinement, valued in fashion and decoration for its distinctive brilliance and timeless appeal.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Coral orange is a bold color in interior design, often used to bring a touch of liveliness and warmth to a space. In yoga and wellness products, this shade is chosen for its invigorating effects and to encourage a joyful and energetic atmosphere. In interior design, coral orange can be used as an accent to energize a room, complementing neutral tones or contrasting with cooler colors. This color is ideal for spaces that require an injection of positivity and creativity, creating welcoming and vibrant environments.
YELLOW, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Yellow is the color of the sun, symbolizing energy, positivity, and clarity. It radiates warmth and evokes light, optimism, and joy. Associated with the intellect and awakening consciousness, yellow stimulates creativity and imagination, encouraging communication and social interaction. In the context of wellness and yoga, yellow promotes focus and enthusiasm, creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. It is a dynamic color that revitalizes the mind and brightens the atmosphere.
Origins through the Ages
Yellow has always been a significant color throughout history. In ancient times, it was associated with sun gods and divinity, representing divine light and wisdom. In ancient Egypt, yellow was used to represent gold, a symbol of eternity and purity. During the Renaissance, yellow became a popular color in royal gardens and works of art, symbolizing joy and prosperity. In Asia, it is considered an imperial color, embodying power, light, and spiritual enlightenment. Yellow, as the color of intellect and vitality, has survived through the ages, illuminating our world with its beneficial light.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Yellow is widely used in interior design for its ability to brighten and visually expand a space. In yoga and wellness products, this color is chosen for its ability to energize and stimulate, bringing a sense of liveliness and positivity. In interior design, yellow can be used to create bright accents that warm and energize a space, whether in a kitchen, living room, or workspace. Paired with neutral or softer tones, it can bring cheerfulness and optimism to the environment, making yellow an ideal color for spaces where creativity and communication are essential.
BEIGE, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Beige is the color of simplicity, naturalness, and understated elegance. It evokes softness, warmth, and neutrality, while also conveying a sense of comfort and serenity. This hue, often associated with earth and natural elements, embodies a timeless and calming aesthetic. Beige is a versatile color that blends harmoniously with almost any other color, creating a visual balance that soothes the mind and the environment. In the context of wellness and yoga, beige can help establish an atmosphere of calm, promoting relaxation and introspection.
Origins through the Ages
Historically, beige has been used for its natural and organic qualities, reminiscent of raw materials like linen, sand, and wood. In ancient cultures, this color symbolized humility, simplicity, and connection to the earth. In art and design, beige has often been chosen for its stabilizing properties and its association with purity and clarity. Throughout the centuries, this color has maintained its place as a favorite hue for creating serene and balanced environments, blending seamlessly into a variety of styles and periods.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Beige is a fundamental color in interior design, particularly prized for its ability to create welcoming and relaxing spaces. In yoga and wellness products, beige is often used for rugs, cushions, and accessories, due to its association with naturalness and comfort. In interior design, beige brings a sense of warmth and harmony, pairing perfectly with brighter or darker shades to create balanced contrasts. This color is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and meditation spaces, where it contributes to a calming and natural ambiance.
BLACK, ITS SYMBOLISM, ITS ORIGINS AND ITS INTEGRATION INTO DESIGN & DECORATION
THE INSPIRATIONS OF THIS COLOR
The Meaning of Color
Black is a powerful color, often associated with elegance, sophistication, and mystery. It represents infinity, space, and timelessness, evoking a depth that absorbs light and captures attention. Black is also a symbol of strength, resilience, and gravitas, often used to convey a sense of seriousness and authority. In the context of wellness and yoga, black can aid concentration and introspection, creating an environment conducive to meditation and inner exploration. It is a color that invites one to center oneself and find balance in calm and sobriety.
Origins through the Ages
Throughout the ages, black has been a color laden with symbolism, often associated with power and mystery. In ancient Egypt, black represented the afterlife and rebirth, while in Greece and Rome, it was associated with mourning and gravity. During the Middle Ages, black took on religious connotations, being the color of monastic vestments symbolizing humility and renunciation of worldly pleasures. However, beginning with the Renaissance, black began to embody elegance and power, appearing in the attire of nobles and authority figures. Today, it continues to symbolize sophistication, modernity, and authority.
The Integration of this Color in Design and Interior Decoration
Black is a classic and timeless choice in interior design, used to create elegant and dramatic spaces. In yoga and wellness products, black is often chosen for its understated and refined appearance, whether for rugs, clothing, or accessories. In interior design, black can be used to add depth and contrast, creating sophisticated and soothing ambiances. Paired with natural materials or bold pops of color, black can structure a space while making it both modern and timeless. It's a color that transcends fashion, always bringing a touch of class and distinction.
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Valentine's Bio
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VALENTINE
1994, Reunion Island, Mauritius, a Life carried by the Indian Ocean and Yoga
Since childhood, this intrepid traveler has traveled the globe, leaving her footprints on beaches around the world.Passionate about surfing, scuba diving and sailing, she has made the oceans her playground and source of inspiration.
The freedom of the waves, the serenity of the ocean depths and the wind in his sails have punctuated his journey, always guided by a quest for connection with nature.
It was through her explorations that yoga became more than a practice for her – it was a way of life.
Between early morning surf sessions and meditative sunsets, she found in yoga a perfect balance of strength, flow and self-awareness.
Today, she combines her passion for water sports with teaching yoga and is part of the Yogaterrae team, here in France, in the South West and often remotely :)
This adventurer is a true source of inspiration for anyone who aspires to live in harmony with their body and nature.
Through her stories of incredible experiences, she invites everyone to open up to a world where every wave, every breath and every posture is a celebration of life.
