Color therapy

Color Therapy

Color Therapy (pronounced: kuh-lur ther-uh-pee), also known as Chromotherapy or Color Healing, is a type of Alternative Medicine that uses color and light to balance the energy in the body. The practice is rooted in ancient Ayurvedic Medicine, where it is believed that different colors can have different impacts on our physical and emotional health.

Etymology

The term "Color Therapy" is derived from the English words "color" (from the Latin color) and "therapy" (from the Greek therapeia meaning "healing").

Concept

Color Therapy is based on the idea that colors create electrical impulses in our brains that stimulate hormonal and biochemical processes in our body; these processes either calm or stimulate us. Color therapists believe that each color corresponds to a specific area of the body and health concern, and that by using the appropriate color, one can promote healing and well-being.

For example, red is believed to stimulate the body and mind and to increase circulation. Yellow, on the other hand, is thought to stimulate the nerves and purify the body. Blue is believed to soothe illnesses and treat pain, while green is thought to harmonize and provide a neutral, positive calming effect.

Related Terms

Chromotherapy: Another term for Color Therapy, derived from the Greek words chroma (color) and therapy (healing).
Ayurvedic Medicine: A holistic, healing science from India, over 5,000 years old, which includes the use of color therapy.
Alternative Medicine: Practices claimed to have the healing effects of medicine but are not based on evidence gathered using the scientific method.

Criticism

While some people report positive effects from Color Therapy, it is not widely accepted in the mainstream medical community. Critics argue that there is a lack of empirical evidence and scientific research to support the claims made by color therapists. However, it is generally considered a safe practice when used alongside traditional medical treatments.