Discover the Secrets of Color Therapy

Some people seem to have a knack for decorating. At least that's what you think. But the heart of a home is the people who live in it, and the best-decorated homes reflect their personality. We've all heard about the effect color has on our moods. But there are so many options, where do you begin? Answer: Yourself. You provide the inspiration, and use your home as a canvas for your life. Here are some ideas to get you started. 1. Think of your wall color as therapy. Start with the largest rooms, and pull colors from patterns in your existing favorite pieces. Colors that are next to each other on the color wheel can create calm and balance, great for a bedroom. Use opposites for a dramatic eye-catching contrast in the dining or living room. Next, work on the smaller rooms, using shades that complement the other rooms. If you have large windows, don't use colors that will distract from the view. By choosing colors that you see outside, you can enhance the beauty of nature and coordinate your interior with it. Try to create continuity with the outside and your house will flow much better. 2. You literally need to look no further than your nose to find the best colors for your home. Look good in warm colors? Open your closet and choose a few items from your wardrobe. Then go shopping for a rug, or some throw pillows. A couch in your best color would look great on you. But don't forget to balance a warm room with some cool tones - candles, knick-knacks, small pictures - to keep a room from becoming overbearing. 3. Think back to your favorite vacation. You don't have to relegate those memories to a photo album. Were you inspired by the blues of the ocean? The pinkish-orange of a sunset? Use those colors for your largest furniture pieces or wall hangings and recapture the feeling every time you enter the room. Make it your own paradise at home, and add photos and souvenirs of the trip to personalize it. No one can decorate your home as uniquely as you can. Don't be afraid to use color as much as you can and go with whatever colors make you look good and feel great.