Many homeowners never consider the implications of their bedroom wall colors — that the wrong color of paint can actually be a deterrent to sleep. Scientific research has proven that color impacts the senses, including sleep patterns. From an influence on thoughts, moods and perception, different colors can trigger a wide range of reactions in different people. So for homeowners who are considering a painting project, it is imperative for them to take into consideration the ways in which their new paint color can influence their overall well-being.
Paint, Sensory Perception & Sleep Cycles
The field of color psychology explains how different colors encourage different moods and feelings. These can range on a spectrum from excitement to happiness to calm depending on the color chosen. The receptors of the brain interact with the eyes to associate meaning with different colors. This interpretation then resonates with the person to create a context surrounding the color. This is important for homeowners because if they are seeking a good night’s sleep, the paint color on their bedroom walls can either encourage restfulness or detract from it. Many homeowners are unaware of the significance of color and may be losing many hours of valuable sleep all because the wrong color is painted on their walls. The following is a list of the top three paint colors for bedrooms that positively affect sleep patterns:
- Blues
Blue is the go-to color of choice for homeowners who seek a good night’s rest. Studies have shown that the color blue actually encourages rest, with the receptors of the brain interacting with this color for a calming experience. The color blue is known to reduce the heart rate for a serene experience. Homeowners can enjoy of variety of blues to include pale blues, warm navies and even brighter shades of turquoise. This color is highly recommended for optimal sleep.
- Yellows
Yellow is the next wall color contender for improving sleep patterns. Yellow is a color that encourages feelings of joy and happiness. It is reminiscent of sunshine and is excellent for bedrooms due to its energizing nature. Yellow is a welcoming color no matter the shade. From bright yellow to muted buttery tones, this is a great color to influence restfulness. One caveat regarding yellow paint is that large amounts of true yellow can negatively impact sleep as it is a stimulating color and has even been shown to stimulate feelings of hunger. The best way to incorporate bright yellow into a bedroom is with an accent wall where the other walls are painted a neutral color to balance out the brightness of the paint.
- Greens
Green is another restful color. Green is a comforting color that has been shown to relax the senses for a very calming effect. Green is a color associated with both stress-relief and comfort. Various shades of green work well in the bedroom especially cooling mints and subdued greens such as sage which are warm and friendly.
Colors to Avoid
Colors such as red, dark gray, purple and orange should largely be avoided if a good night’s sleep is the objective. Red is an active, energetic color. Its intensity encourages excitement and can stimulate movement. It also raises blood pressure and heart rates which can make drifting off to sleep a very difficult task. Dark gray is another color that should be avoided in the bedroom. Studies have shown that people associate dark gray with somber moods and this color is known to evoke feelings of sadness. Purple is another over-stimulating color. Purple is known to increase creativity as well as thinking but it may get in the way of sleep if it is the primary wall color in a bedroom. Finally, orange is a color that should be avoided altogether as a bedroom wall color. Orange is another invigorating color and it releases emotions related to fitness and activity. It is a high-impact, high-energy color that will interfere with sleep patterns and cause restless nights. A residential painter in Essex County can provide further assistance with choosing the perfect bedroom paint color.
Decorating a bedroom goes far beyond picking a favorite paint color with furniture and linens to match. Decorating a bedroom also includes making the right decision regarding a paint color that will encourage restful nights. The right wall color will improve sleep patterns, whereas an over-stimulating color will keep homeowners wide awake. For more information regarding bedroom color schemes and the effect of paint colors on sleep patterns, contact a residential painter in Essex County for additional information.