Many of us do everything we think we should to create an ideal sleep environment. We know that the temperature and light in the bedroom can affect the ability to sleep well, but did you know that the color of your bedroom can also impact sleep? Color psychology experts say some colors put us at ease, while others make us feel alert, so they don’t belong in the bedroom.
Geoff McKinnen, certified sleep coach at Amerisleep, shares the best and worst bedroom colors for sleep. For the best, shades that reduce stress and soothe the nervous system, like pastels and neutrals, are ideal.
- Blue - It’s one of the best bedroom colors because it’s associated with calm and relaxation. Blue is a non-stimulating color, so when you see it, the body produces more melatonin, a sleep hormone that influences the sleep-wake cycle.
- Yellow - Soft shades of yellow alleviate stress and promote a tranquil environment so you can sleep peacefully. McKinnen notes that brighter yellows boost energy and should be avoided in the bedroom.
- Green - This color is great for relaxation and similar to a blue room, green rooms help us feel calm and peaceful. Go for greens that have blue tones and avoid warm ones with yellow that may cause you to feel more energetic.
- Silver - Choose a matte silver, which induces calm, and not a shiny silver that reflects bright light and could keep you awake.
- Pink - Soft shades of pink can promote a tranquil feeling, but steer clear of pinks with more red that can stimulate the brain and negatively impact sleep.
As for the worst bedroom colors for sleep:
- Bright purple - It can increase energy levels, keeping you alert. If you want a purple bedroom, choose a muted tone, like lavender to boost sleepiness.
- Brown - This gloomy color can increase subconscious feelings of sadness, according to McKinnen, leading to restlessness instead of sleep.
- Red - It’s an invigorating color that research shows can increase brain activity and boost alertness, which is the opposite of what you want when you’re trying to fall asleep.
Source: Nine.com