As the stigma behind mental illness slowly dissipates throughout western society, a wider variety of solutions become illuminated. One medicine that is lesser known in Western Society is Color Therapy. Let’s look into the science behind color therapy, its benefits drawbacks, and how you can start!

Color therapy, also known as chromotherapy, is a type of alternative medicine that uses colors to treat various physical and mental conditions. The idea behind color therapy is that each color has different effects on the human body and mind, and that by using specific colors, one can improve their health or mood. While there is no scientific evidence to support the claims made by proponents of color therapy, some people believe that it can be helpful for conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even pain relief. There are several ways in which colors can be used for therapy:

One common method is through light therapy, where colored lights are shone on the body or into the eyes. This type of therapy is sometimes used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a condition characterized by low energy levels and depressed moods during winter months when there is less natural sunlight available. Light boxes emitting different colors of light are also sometimes used in businesses or schools to help create a more positive environment.

Another way of using color for therapy is through art therapy, where patients express themselves through painting or drawing. This can be helpful for those who have difficulty communicating their feelings verbally. Color choice may also be significant in art therapy; for example, someone who is feeling sad may choose to use blue tones while someone who wants to feel more energized may choose yellow or orange hues.

Some people also believe that wearing certain colors or eating foods with particular colors can have therapeutic benefits. For instance, it is thought that green leafy vegetables can help improve mental clarity because of their chlorophyll content (which gives plants their green pigment). Red fruits and vegetables are often said to boost energy levels due to their high concentration of antioxidants and vitamins A & C. And finally, purple foods like grapes and eggplants are believed by some to promote calmness and relaxation due to their ability to soothe the nervous system.

Despite its popularity, there are several potential risks associated with color therapy. These include:

1. Allergies and skin reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when exposed to certain colors. This is more likely if you have sensitive skin or if you are using artificial lights during treatment.
2. Eye damage: staring at bright lights for extended periods of time can cause damage to your eyesight. It is important to take breaks during treatment and to avoid looking directly at the light source.
3. Seizures: In rare cases, exposure to flashing lights during color therapy has been linked with seizures in people who are predisposed to them. If you have a history of seizures, it is important to speak with your doctor before undergoing treatment.

If you are considering color therapy, it is important that you spend enough time searching for the right therapist. What does “the right therapist” mean? Well, you should make sure they are well-versed in color therapy and how it works. You should spend some time getting to know the therapist before committing to the process also, to make sure you trust them.

Here are some more tips on how to choose the right color therapist:

1. Define Your Needs. The first step in choosing a therapist is to identify your needs. Are you seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, or another issue? Once you have identified your needs, you can begin researching therapists who specialize in those areas.
2. Consider Your Preferences There are many different types of therapists and each one has their own unique approach. Some therapies are more traditional while others are more alternative. Consider what type of approach you prefer and look for therapists who use that type of approach. You may also want to consider things like location, availability, cost, etc. when making your decision.
3. Research Therapists in Your Area. Once you have defined your needs and considered your preferences, it’s time to start researching therapists in your area. A good place to start is by asking family and friends if they know of any recommended therapists. You can also search online directories or contact your insurance company for a list of covered providers in your area. When researching potential therapists, be sure to read reviews and check out their website or social media presence to get a better sense of who they are as a person and how they practice therapy. After narrowing down your options, reach out to each therapist directly via email or phone call to ask any additional questions and schedule an initial consultation appointment. This will give you an opportunity meet the therapist face-to-face, learn more about their practice style, and determine if they seem like a good fit for you.
4. Make Sure They Accept Your Insurance. If cost is a concern for you, make sure to verify that the therapist accepts your insurance coverage before scheduling an appointment.

The process of selecting a color therapist is similar to selecting any therapist, but it’s important to also do you research on this type of therapy and not only the therapist.

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