Orange can be a very strong and energetic colour. Like yellow and red, it can be very attention-grabbing, People often describe the colour orange as bright, happy, and uplifting. In some cases, however, it can seem too bright and overwhelming. Much like purple, orange tends to be a controversial colour. People tend to either love it or hate it.
Orange Colour and its Psychology
How does orange make you feel? Do you associate orange with certain qualities or situations? It is important to remember that the symbolism and associations of the colour orange are not universal. Cultural differences often play a role in how people relate to colour. The way we see orange used in the environment plays a major role in how we feel about it. If you associate the colour with pleasant autumn evenings spent with family and friends, then you will likely have strong positive associations with the colour.
Orange Is Energetic – Orange is often described as an energetic colour. It may call to mind feelings of enthusiasm and excitement. Because orange is a high-energy colour, many sports teams use orange in their uniforms, mascots, and branding.
A 2018 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that orange was seen as an exciting colour that could increase energy levels and make it more difficult to engage in difficult tasks such as study in.
Another study found that the colour orange was associated with feelings of playfulness and vibrancy. Orange Is Attention-Getting – One study found that orange is considered a highly stimulating but friendly colour. It is an attention-grabbing colour that tends to stand out visually, which is why it is often used for traffic signs and advertising.
Research has shown that longer-wavelength colours such as orange and red tend to induce higher levels of arousal.
Orange Is Happy – People also commonly describe the colour orange as bright, happy, and joyful. Orange is the colour of bright sunsets and fruits like oranges and tangerines, so many people might associate the colour with the beauty of the setting sun or the refreshing taste of citrus.
Research also suggests that consumers respond to the colour orange in a number of different ways. It is perceived as a playful, friendly colour when used in consumer marketing and products. Shoppers also tend to associate it with more inexpensive products.
Orange Is Spiritual – The colour orange is often associated with spiritual practices including meditation and compassion. In Southeast Asia, Buddhist monks wear orange robes that symbolize simplicity and letting go of materialism. The tradition dates back thousands of years to the time of Buddha. Robes were often made using bits of unwanted cloth that were then dyed using vegetable matter and spices such as turmeric and saffron. Today, the garments are often referred to as saffron robes.
Orange colour: The Sacral Chakra, which is located 2 or 3 inches below the navel is represented by orange colour. This chakra is said to be associated with reproduction, kidneys, adrenals and pleasure. The chakra is the mind-body chakra.