Ayurvedic Color Therapy

With all the natural methods of healing such as diet, aromatherapy, and meditation, not many people are aware of the healing that can take place through the use of simple colors. It is an inexpensive and safe method that can be added to any healing and meditation regimen. The best part about it is anybody, young or old, can use it.

Color of Ayurveda

According to Ayurvedic Science, vibratory energy from colors have the ability to create balances within the mind and body. Every basic color has certain properties that pave the way for a change in mood, sensation, mental health, and stability. Because of this it is important to base our exposure to these colors on our doshas and tolerance.

To learn more about doshas and find your dosha type, take this quiz before continuing [2,3] .  

Below I have included color therapy and explanations of the intention of each color . Relax and take the time to explore the different healing properties and emotions associated with each color.

Red

This color is one that is considered to be warm and stimulating. It is related to our blood and can stimulate circulation and heal disorders of the circulatory system. It energizes nerves tissues and bone marrow. Red can also represent passion. 

Doshas: Relieves Vata & reduces  excess Kapha. 

If overexposed, may aggravate Pitta.

Orange

Like red, orange also has a warming property. It stimulates and energizes reproductive organs to enhance desires. Paradoxically, it turns sensual desires into extreme consciousness for those practicing celibacy. It also has antibacterial effects. 

Doshas: Balances Vata & Kapha; 

May aggravate Pitta

Yellow

The color yellow is known in Ayurveda to stimulate understanding and deeper knowledge. This color is often used in prayer and meditation. It is also associated with decongestion of moist membranes. Antibacterial properties are also present.

Doshas: Relieves Vata & Kapha

Green

The color of most things in nature, green, gives off a feeling of freshness. It is a soothing color and brings bouts of happiness to the spirits. With its calming effects, green is pacifying to the mind, body, and soul and also has properties of ulcer healing and tissue growth. 

 Doshas: Relieves Pitta

May aggravate Vata & Kapha

Blue

Cooling is the word that best describes this color. When thinking of blue, things like ice, water, and sky comes to mind. Blue is the color of consciousness. Its healing effects remain effective in the correction of liver disorders.

Doshas: Relieves Pitta

May aggravate Vata and Kapha

Purple

This color brings forth awakening and awareness. It may open the doors of perception and create opportunities for increased light into the soul and mind. Purple is an understanding color that promotes emotions of ambition and power. 

Doshas: Relieve excess Pitta and Kapha

May relieve Vata

Gold & Silver

Gold resembles sun and warmth.

Dosha: Beneficial for Vata & Kapha

Silver is associated with the moon and is cooling.

Dosha: Soothes Pitta

Eat the Rainbow

Not only is it important to look at these colors to promote healing, it is also important to eat foods that are naturally of these colors as well. Avoid foods with additives and food coloring and consume foods that grow these colors naturally. Studies show that colorful foods are usually most full of antioxidants and disease fighting nutrients.

References

[1] Balch, J., Balch R. Y., & Stengler, M. (2016). Prescription for natural cures  (3rd ed.). Nashville: Turner Publisher Company.

[2] Lad, V. (1998). The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies (1st ed.). New York: Random House.

[3] Ayurvedic Body Type: Find Your Dosha. (2017). Doctoroz.com. Retrieved 2 February 2017, from http://www.doctoroz.com/quiz/ayurvedic-body-type-find-your-dosha?quiz=true