The colours surrounding you affect your mood, performance and energy levels. It is important to choose a colour that helps you focus and sets you in the right mood to work or to relax. The year gone by has been anxiety-ridden and chaotic. We saw individuals embracing soothing greens and blues, dusty pinks, neutral shades and timeless white for their house colour as home became the epicentre for work, play and studies. Since this phenomenon is probably here to stay for much longer, we are going to see these shades more than ever.

One of the most important factors in influencing peoples’ choice of food is its appearance and colour. The Romans were one of the first humans to recognise the fact that people "eat with their eyes." It has been found that eighty percent of all impressions are made by one’s eyesight. Therefore, colour has a great impact on the appeal of different foods. Did you know that red is actually an appetite-stimulating colour? Interestingly, people find red-coloured foods to be the most appealing. Red activates your appetite so much that it is often used not only in restaurant logos but also on menus, tablecloths and napkins. It is so powerful that it can promote thoughts that involve meals and can make a person’s stomach grumble when presented in a dining atmosphere. Fascinating, isn’t it?

Labradorite

Wondering what this beautiful object is? It is a gemstone known as Labradorite, a Feldspar mineral, which is often called "Rainbow Moonstone.” A stone of transformation, Labradorite is a useful companion through change, known to impart strength to the wearer. It is believed to protect the aura and ground spiritual energies. Labradorite is also considered a gemstone used to get rid of fears and insecurities, strengthening faith in oneself. It activates the imagination and calms a restless mind. Associated with the throat chakra, it is a gemstone of expression. Wear it to see the results for yourself!

Beryl

The green object that you are looking at is called Beryl. It is a precious gemstone found in igneous and metamorphic rocks around the world. It has served as a minor ore of beryllium, and colour varieties of the mineral are among the world's most popular gemstones. Interestingly, this gemstone is believed to have the power to keep evil spirits away, promoting happiness and love. It is also believed to cure laziness, protect travellers from danger, and maintain youthfulness. Taking inspiration from the green colour of this particular gemstone, you can opt for a luxury design interior paint for your favourite walls.

Rhetus periander

This stunning butterfly is called the Rhetus Periander, belonging to the family Riodinidae. You can find it in South America and Central America, in major parts of Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. It is known for its short palpi, and for having a beautiful blue sheen across the upper surface of its wings. Since it is not uncommon to derive inspiration from things that we see in nature, we recommend that you opt for a blue shade like ENERGIZED BLUE from Berger’s Colour Catalogue that is the closest match to the butterfly as the exterior house paint of your house – an ode to this beautiful creature.

African grey parrot

The parrot you are looking at is known as African grey parrot. As the name suggests, it has a grey body with striking reddish tail feathers. Believed to be the most intelligent of the parrot species, the African grey parrot has the ability to talk and mimic many words and phrases, making it a fun companion for humans. It can be affectionate, but, like other large parrots, is considered a high maintenance pet. It also prefers a routine schedule and requires a substantial amount of time with its owners. Interesting creature, isn’t it?