Chromotherapy aka colour therapy is a holistic school of thought based on Ayurvedic principles — India’s 5,000-year-old traditional medicine practice. Colour therapy states that each colour has healing energies and can induce sleep, stimulate creativity, emotions, creative thought and awaken the mind. To the average person this may seem a bit woo-woo; however, seasoned interior designers and decorators know that certain colours better suit bedrooms, kitchens and common areas.

Interior decorator Eroleen Anderson-Powell recently had the task of redecorating a Norbrook home. She was thoughtful with the choice of colours and pieces used to inject character in the home. By the time she was finished the property became a “Norbrook retreat”. Anderson-Powell took Style Observer (SO) on a tour of said retreat and we spotted the uses of chromotherapy.

White

Soft shades of white were used in the master bedroom, kitchen, living area, dining room and den. White is associated with peace and tranquillity. It helps to clear the mind and refreshes the soul — perfect for creating a retreat that encourages the occupants to recharge, relax and, of course, sleep.

Black

Black was used sparingly and added a bit of personality to the rooms in which it was used. It was found in accent pieces, electronics, artwork and on cabinetry hardware. Black is said to create the space for reflection (part of a good bedtime routine) and inner searching.

Yellow

Anderson-Powell opted for subtle yellows that were used sparingly and only as accents. Pale yellow invokes positivity and spiritual moods — exactly what you need for a Zen-like retreat.

Grey

Fun fact: grey is a principal colour in Nordic design and emanates calm. On an emotional level, it alleviates tension and anxiety — what else could you ask for when needing a good night’s sleep? In the Norbrook retreat grey was used in bedding, artwork and accent pieces.

Blue

Chromotherapy advocates posit that “blue is the most calming and peaceful colour to use in your home”. The colour is said to relax the mind, encourage deep breathing and slow down the body — three key ingredients needed for restorative sleep.

Brown

Used in the Norbrook retreat solely in furniture and cabinetry, the colour is said to stabilise overexcited states. It “calms and grounds emotions”; in other words, brown brings us back to earth. Calm states and relaxation promote solid sleep.

Colour has a significant impact on our emotional states and brain activity. Roman philosopher Marcus Aurelius said: “The soul becomes dyed with the colour of its thoughts.” The colours in our homes can impact the way we sleep and the quality of sleep that we get each night. Like Anderson-Powell, opt for soft whites (that includes ivory), gentle yellow, soft blues, browns, greys and a smidge of black to create a home retreat that will allow you to go from 100 to 0 and get a great night’s sleep, every night.