How Can Color Effect Brain Activity

Color can influence activity within the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) in the thalamus and subsequently impact mood through a process known as color psychology. Different colors can evoke distinct emotional responses, which may be linked to the specific patterns of neural activity within the brain.

Research suggests that the LGN is involved in processing color information, as it receives signals from the retinal cones that are sensitive to different wavelengths of light, corresponding to different colors. These signals are then relayed to the visual cortex for further analysis and interpretation. The LGN’s involvement in processing color information highlights its role in shaping our perception of the visual world, including the emotional responses triggered by different colors.

Certain colors have been associated with specific emotional states. For example, warm colors such as red and yellow are often linked to feelings of energy, warmth, and even arousal, while cool colors like blue and green tend to evoke a sense of calmness, relaxation, and tranquility. These emotional associations can have a direct impact on mood and may influence psychological states such as stress levels, anxiety, and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the effects of color on mood can be utilized in various environments, such as interior design, marketing, and therapy. For instance, using certain colors in interior spaces or work environments can create a more stimulating or calming atmosphere, potentially affecting individuals’ productivity and emotional states. Similarly, in therapeutic settings, specific colors might be used to create a more soothing and conducive environment for relaxation and emotional healing.

How Can Light Direction on the Pupil Effect the Brain 

The direction of light entering the pupil can have an impact on brain activity through the process of light-induced changes in the central nervous system. Light is a critical environmental stimulus that influences various physiological processes, including the regulation of circadian rhythms, mood, and cognitive performance.

Light direction affects the activation of specialized photoreceptor cells in the retina known as intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). These cells are sensitive to specific wavelengths of light and play a crucial role in transmitting information about light exposure to various regions of the brain, particularly the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus.

The SCN serves as the central pacemaker for the body’s circadian rhythm, regulating the sleep-wake cycle and coordinating various biological processes. Light exposure, especially in the morning, helps synchronize the body’s internal clock to the external day-night cycle, promoting alertness and cognitive function during the day and facilitating restful sleep at night.

Furthermore, light direction can influence the production of neurotransmitters and hormones, such as serotonin and melatonin, which are involved in regulating mood and sleep-wake patterns. Exposure to natural light, particularly in the morning, can enhance mood, cognitive performance, and overall well-being by promoting the release of serotonin and suppressing melatonin production, thereby supporting wakefulness and mental alertness.

How Can Eye Pupil Position Effect Brain Function

The position of the pupil can have an impact on the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, specifically the parasympathetic and sympathetic branches, which are responsible for regulating various involuntary bodily functions.

The size of the pupil is controlled by the iris, a circular muscle that adjusts the size of the pupil in response to changes in light intensity and other stimuli. The parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems play a crucial role in controlling the size of the pupil, a process known as pupillary light reflex.

When the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, it causes the pupils to constrict (or become smaller), a response known as miosis. This occurs in well-lit environments or when focusing on nearby objects. In contrast, activation of the sympathetic nervous system leads to pupil dilation (or enlargement), a response known as mydriasis. This happens in low-light conditions, during moments of emotional arousal, or in response to the body’s “fight or flight” reaction.

The position of the pupil and its corresponding changes in size can therefore serve as an indicator of the current state of the autonomic nervous system. Observing changes in pupil size can provide insights into an individual’s physiological and psychological arousal levels, as well as their overall state of alertness and emotional response.

How Can Flicker Rate Effect Brain Function

Controlled and well-modulated flicker rates, especially in the context of therapeutic applications such as certain forms of visual stimulation or neurofeedback, may have beneficial effects on brain function. Research suggests that specific flicker frequencies, when applied under controlled conditions, can influence brainwave patterns and potentially promote cognitive enhancement, relaxation, or other desired neurological responses.

 

 

How do Colors Effect in our Brain Function?

Far Red: Unlocking the Power of the Insula

Far Red visual stimulation, a crucial element in the ETT process, has shown remarkable correlations with specific brain functions, particularly those associated with the insula. Nestled within the cerebral cortex, the insula plays a pivotal role in cognitive responses, emotional perception, and body awareness (Ogden et al., 2006). It processes information related to physical pain, body temperature, and visceral sensations (Craig, 2003), making it a key player in trauma-related studies, where heightened insula activity has been observed during trauma arousal (Rauch et al., 1996).

The insula is also linked to experiences of dissociation, a common occurrence in trauma (Lanius, 2006). Coupled with the posterior parietal lobe, it contributes to our perception of our own bodies (Berlucci and Aglioti, 1997). These functions align closely with the reported effects of far red stimulation, particularly the sense of embodiment that clients consistently describe. Therefore, far red visual stimulation can effectively activate and engage the functions of the insula, potentially offering therapeutic benefits.

Additionally, far red stimulation has been associated with a secondary brain site, the right angular gyrus, which plays a crucial role in experiences related to perceived detachment from one’s own body, such as out-of-body experiences (Blanke et al., 2002). These experiences are often intertwined with shock, a common element in trauma. By stimulating the right angular gyrus, far red may help restore a sense of embodiment, which is frequently disrupted in cases of trauma.

This multifaceted influence of far red can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes. For instance, individuals suffering from somatic dissociation, where emotions are inaccessible due to bodily numbness, can benefit from far red viewing as it rekindles their sense of embodiment. When individuals regain the ability to perceive their bodily experiences, their responsiveness to therapeutic interventions significantly improves. Far red stimulation has even been successful in transforming flashback memories, allowing individuals to reintegrate their traumatic experiences within their own bodies and process the associated emotions to completion. In cases where shock and trauma have disrupted the perception of embodiment, far red may hold the key to restoration.

The Psychology of Red: A Journey through Passion

In the realm of color psychology, red reigns as the embodiment of passion. This vibrant hue, often associated with intense emotions, traverses a profound journey across various phases of stimulation.

Phase one of red stimulation sometimes manifests as an absence of passion, akin to anhedonia or boredom, signifying the primitive parasympathetic phase. However, as we delve into phase two, a different narrative unfolds. Here, red stimulation can lead to aberrant sexual behavior, frenetic experiences marked by intensity, aimlessness, and a host of similar sensations, often symbolizing the misalignment of passion. Yet, as we progress to phase three, we encounter the ultimate realization of passion—a state where passion is harmonious, sexuality is fulfilled, and one’s life purpose becomes the guiding force, channeling energy into appropriate outlets. This enthralling psycho-emotional theme has captivated storytellers across generations, inspiring countless narratives in literature, cinema, and various forms of human expression, for taming and harnessing passion remains one of life’s paramount challenges.

Delving into the neural underpinnings of the color red, we find a profound correlation with the basal ganglia or basal nuclei, primarily responsible for processing the range of wavelengths that the human eye perceives as “red.” This correlation stems from meticulous SPECT brain scans, revealing significant pre and post changes within the basal ganglia following substantial red stimulation. Situated at the base of the forebrain, the basal ganglia maintains strong connections with key brain regions, including the thalamus and cerebral cortex. Its intricate composition comprises the nucleus accumbens, caudate putamen, globus pallidus, and the subthalamic nucleus, each contributing to the multifaceted experiences associated with red stimulation.

The profound intricacies of red stimulation defy a one-size-fits-all description, making it challenging to encapsulate all possible experiences within a single quadrant. Instead, the descriptors within each quadrant capture the diverse array of possibilities that emerge during each phase of the journey. For instance, the continuum of psycho-emotional themes related to far red unfolds with its unique set of nuances, reflecting the rich tapestry of experiences within the realm of color psychology.

Red-Orange: Removing Fatigue and Increasing Empathy

Red-orange, a captivating hue, instigates a distinctive array of responses, diverging significantly from those triggered by either red or orange stimulation. In phase one, the manifestation of red-orange is characterized by an exceptional level of restriction, inhibition, and an overarching sense of “frozenness.” Individuals entrenched in this state often adopt the role of unwavering adherents, akin to the archetypal “good soldier.” Transitioning to phase two, a transformation unfolds, unmasking emotions of guilt, shame, and an overwhelming burden of responsibility towards others, society, or employment. This phase resonates profoundly with psychologists and therapists, often encountering what Charles Figley aptly describes as “compassion fatigue.” In Porges’s second phase, red-orange elicits overt rigidity, amplifying the sensation of excessive responsibility. However, upon reaching the third phase guided by red-orange, individuals embrace experiences characterized by playfulness, creativity, and the liberation from inhibition. These three phases may manifest in any order and within distinct “internal psychological facets,” each residing in a distinct phase. Nevertheless, the conventional progression typically comprises phase one, followed by phase two, culminating in phase three.

The spectral wavelengths embodying the red-orange spectrum exhibit a strong correlation with the functions of the temperoparietal juncture, in conjunction with the prefrontal cortex situated in the right hemisphere of the brain. These cerebral functions not only align with the observed reactions to red-orange visual stimulation but also intersect with the mirror neuron system and the amygdala, contributing to a comprehensive sensory experience (Likhtik, Pelletier, Paz, and Pare’, 2005). The right inferior cortex and the temperoparietal junction, in conjunction with the posterior temporal cortex, play a pivotal role in the perception of self in relation to others. These neural mechanisms empower individuals to perceive the demarcation between one’s own identity and that of others or to blend their identity with another entity (Decety and Meyer, 2008).

The applications of visual stimulation by red-orange are multifarious. Instances of guilt, shame, or an excessive sense of responsibility often stem from distortions in self-perception intertwined with external evaluations. The overabundance or deficit in empathy is also intricately linked to the temperoparietal junction. Harnessing red-orange visual stimulation in tandem with adept guidance can amplify transformations in these domains. Red-orange stimulation possesses the potential to alleviate a myriad of consequential emotions, encompassing anger, sadness, fear, frequently arising from a deficiency in distinguishing oneself from others.

Within the intricate neural landscape, the basal ganglia emerges as the epicenter of red-orange functions, regulating shifts in emotions and movements, refining motor skills, curtailing undesirable motor actions, modulating anxiety thresholds, heightening motivation, and overseeing sensations of pleasure and ecstasy. Red-orange visual stimulation holds the potential to modulate these functions, contingent on its integration with an individual’s specific challenges. This adaptability extends across a spectrum of domains, encompassing movement disorders, sexual dynamics, and motivational enigmas. For instance, the application of red-orange stimulation, coupled with meticulous processing, can mitigate various movement impairments, including restless legs syndrome and Parkinson’s disease, offering relief and an enhanced quality of life.

Blue-Green: The Color of Wholeness

The world of blue-green stimulation beckons with a spectrum of experiences, each contributing to a profound sense of “wholeness.” Let’s embark on a journey through these emotional dimensions as they unfurl along a continuous spectrum.

In its most subtle form, blue-green engenders a sense of emotional detachment, often accompanied by a heightened intellectual disposition—individuals may appear “lost in their thoughts.” Emotions lie flat, and logical expressions devoid of affect are the norm in this initial phase.

Phase two takes us on the opposite trajectory. Here, emotional expression becomes prominent, yet it defies logic. People exhibit labile affect, and their emotional sensitivity soars. This phase is marked by heightened emotional responses, quite distinct from the rational demeanor of phase one.

And then, we venture into phase three, where a harmonious union of emotions and cognition unfolds. Here, emotions and thoughts align, creating emotionally appropriate expressions. Individuals often appear even-tempered and at peace during this phase.

The overarching journey provoked by blue-green stimulation is a transformative one, guiding individuals towards a sense of equilibrium and emotional completeness.

The wavelengths of light associated with the color green tend to activate functions that align with the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, which in turn projects to the pituitary gland and has connections to the dorsal vagal complex (DVC). The DVC, encompassing the motor nucleus of the solitary tract and the area postrema, orchestrates intraneuronal communication within this network. This complex system, as elucidated by Porges, comes into play when the body seeks to conserve energy during perceived oxygen loss in lower animals. Similarly, this physiological response manifests when humans experience a perceived loss of affectionate sources. The DVC influences the heart and bronchial function.

The paraventricular nucleus produces neuropeptides, oxytocin and vasopressin, known to affect the DVC. Oxytocin is associated with pleasurable feelings experienced during feeding, breastfeeding, sexual climax, and affectionate touch—often described as sensations of the emotional heart. Vasopressin, conversely, is linked to physical experiences resulting from the absence or loss of affectionate connections. The interplay between the paraventricular nucleus and the DVC encompasses the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems, yielding far-reaching effects on visceral, cardiac, and bronchial functions. Symptoms such as nausea, colitis, and ulcerative colitis can arise in response to the sudden loss of affectionate sources.

Additionally, in the realm of affection, Helen Fisher’s extensive research on individuals deeply in love reveals that the caudate nucleus stands as the primary brain site activated during this intense experience. The caudate nucleus, associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder and dopamine proliferation, becomes intensely active during these passionate encounters, marking a distinctive chapter in the emotional journey.

This exploration of blue-green illumination not only encompasses emotional transformation but also unveils the intricate interplay of brain regions and neuropeptides that underscore these profound shifts in human experience.

Blue: The Color of Communication

The color blue holds sway over our responses, particularly those entangled with verbal and auditory domains and their interconnected emotions. As we navigate this spectrum, we encounter various phases, each unveiling distinct facets of human experience.

In the initial parasympathetic phase, blue casts a shroud of verbal inhibition. This manifests as muteness, shyness, or the struggle to find words for effective communication. A peculiar “talk-don’t talk” conflict may ensue, elevating both motives and rendering communication on specific matters a paralyzing ordeal. Some individuals become so inattentive that auditory messages simply do not register. This phase presents an absence of hearing, listening, or the capacity to absorb auditory input.

As the journey through blue stimulation unfolds, phase two unfurls. Here, verbalization assumes the role of a defense mechanism, often expressed through garrulousness. Alternatively, some individuals may embrace unbridled verbal abuse or unrestrained verbal outpourings. Hyperacusis, characterized by extreme sensitivity to the faintest sounds, emerges as a third manifestation of the blue phase.

Further exploration of blue stimulation guides individuals toward a healthier, more balanced expression of communication. Empathic listening capacity is enhanced, and the ability to articulate thoughts, feelings, and opinions flourishes in the modern parasympathetic phase.

It’s worth noting that scientific trials have raised concerns about potential side effects and hazards associated with exposure to specific colors, particularly blue light. Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to blue light may contribute to ocular damage, possibly playing a role in age-related macular degeneration and retinal injuries.

However, when psychological processing of underlying issues and emotions takes place, these physical symptoms often dissipate. For example, individuals who report discomfort and tension under fluorescent lights may find their symptoms diminish when asked to explore relationships that may have triggered these feelings of distress. The fluorescent lights, initially seen as the culprits, merely acted as catalysts for surfacing unresolved emotions. Therefore, the hazards associated with colored light exposure often dissolve when these underlying issues are appropriately addressed through processing.

The brain regions correlated with blue wavelengths are notably intricate and diverse compared to other colors. This complexity arises from blue’s influence on language and verbal expression, functions that involve a multitude of brain sites. One groundbreaking study observed the effects of light exposure on mood states, revealing enhanced functional connectivity between voice areas, the amygdala, and the hypothalamus under blue illumination during emotional processing. This underscores the profound influence of light, particularly its spectral quality, on emotional brain processing.

Moreover, blue’s influence extends to the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, the biological clock regulating circadian rhythms and impacting hormonal and metabolic functions. Blue light has been shown to exert four times more influence on circadian rhythms, as evidenced by melatonin secretion, compared to other color ranges.

The intricate interplay between emotional processing, our biological clock, verbal expression, and our relationship with external light hints at a profound web of connections that shape our metabolic regulation, perhaps echoing through the thyroid and parathyroid functions situated in the throat region.

Yellow:

Yellow, a color that taps into the spectrum of emotions, is closely intertwined with one’s sense of empowerment in the world. It traverses a continuum of experiences, each shedding light on an individual’s perceived power and emotional state.

In the primitive, parasympathetic phase, yellow often mirrors feelings of emotional paralysis, powerlessness, or sheer hopelessness. This phase unveils itself through a profound sense of helplessness, leaving individuals immobilized and incapable of discerning an escape from distressing situations. They frequently describe themselves as trapped, anxious, and bereft of the ability to improve their circumstances. However, with the right dosage of yellow stimulation and open dialogues about emotions, individuals typically transition into a highly charged realm of rage or anger. Surprisingly, while red has traditionally been associated with anger, yellow emerges as a more potent catalyst for inciting anger. This phase unleashes expressions of frustration, often embodying the fight response in the fight-or-flight mechanism. When phase two is nurtured and enhanced through yellow stimulation, a sense of calmness prevails. This calmness, marked by feelings of empowerment and hopefulness, allows individuals to perceive options in situations once viewed as utterly bleak.

The range of wavelengths within the yellow spectrum predominantly correlates with the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of the brain. Dysfunctional early bonding can lead to psychopathological outcomes by disrupting the orbitofrontal cortex—a convergence zone that interfaces lower subcortical brain areas generating emotional states with higher cortical regions regulating these states. This cortex receives sensory information from the environment and internal signals from the subcortical reticular formation, granting it the power to regulate emotions. Its internal connections to the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus and the head ganglion of the autonomic nervous system enable control over autonomic responses linked to emotional experiences.

Yellow’s impact extends to a wide array of emotions, including feelings of helplessness, overwhelm, powerlessness, or a perceived loss of control. These emotions typically respond to suitable yellow stimulation. However, this emotional cluster often culminates in anger, or more intensely, in rage. Uncontrolled rage involves various brain mechanisms, including a loss of empathy at the temperoparietal juncture and a disconnection between the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex and the ventro lateral prefrontal cortex. Many emotions leading to perceived loss of control can trigger rage, where the ventro medial prefrontal cortex surpasses its capacity to function unless the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex collaborates to regain control. Yellow wavelengths, paired with appropriate verbal expression and attachment-based interpersonal guidance, appear to re-establish neural congruency.

In numerous cases, the habitual disengagement of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from the ventro medial prefrontal cortex activates dysfunction automatically when perceived threats arise. Processes that involve shifting attention can enhance the impact of yellow wavelengths, aiding in breaking free from these ingrained patterns. While conventional wisdom often links the color red with anger, empirical observations consistently reveal that the yellow range of wavelengths resonates more intensely with anger and expedites its progression to resolution. Yellow stimulation appears to empower individuals to transition from being dominated by uncontrolled emotions to accessing awareness of cognitive choices regarding thoughts or behaviors during intense emotional experiences.

Yellow-Green: Color of Paralysis

Yellow-green, a captivating hue, elicits a fusion of distinctive psycho-emotional states, each revealing a unique facet of human experience. As we embark on this journey through the realms of yellow-green, we encounter a continuum of emotions that unravel its complexity.

In phase one, individuals find themselves ensnared in emotional conflict—a state of frozen perplexity. This inner turmoil presents a heightened struggle, leading to emotional stagnation and an impasse in moving forward. Unlike the somber experience associated with the color red, yellow-green infuses a sense of bewilderment. With yellow-green stimulation, the introverted conflict transforms into extroverted emotions, surfacing as anger, sadness, and a love-hate relationship—an adversarial perspective takes root. In this context, the phrase “green with envy” aptly encapsulates phase two, as it fosters emotions of hate and revulsion. However, when subjected to further yellow-green stimulation accompanied by appropriate processing, phase three unfolds as a harmonious experience marked by compatibility and friendliness—an overall more accepting disposition. This tranquil amiability can be simplistically regarded as peace.

The brain regions associated with yellow-green visual stimulation appear to overlap with those activated by both yellow and green. In both cases, the hypothalamus plays a pivotal role, orchestrating visceral responses that range from tension to relaxation based on the individual’s reaction to the stimulation. The orbitofrontal cortex, a key player in the brain’s response to yellow-green stimulation, contributes to the overall emotional regulation. Dysregulation of these functions often leads to emotional turmoil, rendering individuals emotionally adrift. The spectrum of yellow-green wavelengths holds the potential to resonate with these emotional states and facilitate their progression towards resolution.

Green: The Color of Action and Affection

Green is often associated with feelings of affection and love. During the initial phase related to the color green, one might experience a sense of emptiness rather than outright sadness. This feeling can be akin to a state of despondency, detachment, and emotional numbness, much like the emotional emptiness observed in the first phase of far red. Interestingly, progress in the first phase of green can often lead to improvements in the first phase of far red. In the second phase of the emotional journey related to green, we are more likely to encounter expressions of sadness, loneliness, or loss, which may prompt tears. With continued exposure to green stimuli and supportive interactions, the third phase emerges, characterized by feelings of joyfulness, a sense of being nurtured, or a desire to nurture others. Affection finds fulfillment in this third phase, leading to a secure and autonomous way of operating in both the world and in relationships.

The range of green light wavelengths shares functional similarities with the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, which connects to the pituitary gland and has ties to the dorsal vagal complex (DVC). The DVC encompasses the motor nucleus of the solitary tract, the area postrema, and the intraneuronal communication between these structures, with its primary role being to conserve energy by shutting down the system when a perceived lack of oxygen occurs in lower animals. In humans, a similar systemic response occurs when they experience a loss of affectionate connections. The DVC has an impact on the heart and bronchi. The paraventricular nucleus produces neuropeptides like oxytocin and vasopressin, which influence the DVC. Oxytocin is linked to pleasurable feelings experienced after feeding, during breastfeeding, during sexual climax, and during affectionate touch, all considered emotional heart feelings. Vasopressin is associated with physical sensations resulting from the absence or loss of affectionate experiences. The interaction between the paraventricular nucleus and the DVC involves the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems. Green wavelengths, when coupled with appropriate psychological interaction related to affection-related symptoms, can modify the functions of the paraventricular nucleus. Symptoms like nausea, colitis, and ulcerative colitis may arise in response to the sudden loss of affectionate sources.

Additionally, Helen Fisher’s research on individuals experiencing intense romantic love has revealed that the caudate nucleus is the primary brain region activated during this state. The caudate nucleus is also associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder and the release of dopamine. The activation associated with being “madly” in love is intensely stimulating.

Orange, on the other hand, primarily relates to self-perception. In the initial phase, individuals may describe themselves as invisible, lost, or devoid of identity. Some might experience a fragmented sense of self, leading to significant confusion about their identity. Alternatively, individuals might feel psychologically “frozen” in a state of unworthiness. With sufficient exposure to orange stimuli and psychological processing, a more expressive but still negative self-perception emerges in the second phase, characterized by feelings of rejection, self-hatred, or rebellion. Phase two experiences are considerably more emotionally charged than phase one. Finally, with continued exposure to orange and effective processing, positive self-perceptions may surface, manifesting as confidence or independence. This potentiated self-perception aligns with the concept of individuation proposed by Carl Jung.

Wavelengths of light within the orange spectrum are closely related to the functions of the prefrontal cortex, primarily the right prefrontal cortex. Scientific research confirms that certain visual stimuli activate the ventral lateral prefrontal cortex, with orange wavelengths being particularly associated with this function. Functions such as self-face recognition, self-evaluation, and autobiographical memory, which activate the right prefrontal cortex, also correspond to proper orange visual stimulation. Activating the right prefrontal cortex has significant implications, as it often involves retrieving autobiographical memories to identify and address underlying psychological issues. Appropriate use of orange visual stimulation, coupled with optimal interactive processes, can help repair self-perception problems, particularly when previous experiences have damaged one’s self-evaluation.

Indigo: The Color of the Inner World

Indigo, the color of deep contemplation, unfurls a tapestry of issues interwoven with cognitive functions and the pursuit of understanding. As we traverse this color spectrum, distinct phases emerge, each casting light on different aspects of human experience.

In the initial phase, individuals find themselves ensnared by a profound inability to think, often experiencing mental blankness. Alternatively, some grapple with the relentless grip of obsessive and repetitive thoughts. Avoidance, denial, and a reluctance to confront certain issues effectively immobilize individuals in this initial stage.

Advancing through indigo stimulation, a transition unfolds. Disorganized thought processes take root, marked by active indecisiveness that may dominate one’s cognitive landscape. This second phase ushers in a shift toward overly confrontational thinking, replacing the avoidance strategies of the prior phase.

With continued indigo stimulation and the willingness to face one’s most formidable challenges, the third phase dawns. Clarity emerges as cognitive functions attain their zenith, fostering profound discernment and an optimal capacity for vision and understanding.

The brain site that appears to resonate with the functions associated with the indigo wavelength range is the hippocampus, nestled in the medial region of the temporal lobe. The hippocampus shoulders the critical role of memory formation, storage, and retrieval, particularly within declarative memory—memories accessible to consciousness and expressible through language.

Scientific exploration has shown that trauma can inflict damage upon hippocampal cells, while neurogenesis of these cells has been linked to healing. Given its interconnectedness with the amygdala and cortex, the hippocampus’s functions may manifest as consequences rather than causes of many symptoms.

Indigo holds a plethora of applications, particularly when aiming to influence the hippocampus. It has been observed to restore short-term memory in cases where functional memory loss hinders learning. Cognitive dysfunctions resulting from trauma often necessitate addressing the trauma first, after which memory restoration becomes feasible. However, indigo stimulation may also prove effective in cases of memory loss due to conditions like stroke, brain injury, or even unconscious denial defenses.

The enigmatic realms of indigo offer profound insights into our cognitive faculties and capacity for understanding, shedding light on the intricate interplay between color, memory, and healing.

Purple/ Violet: he Color of Trust and the Gateway to The Spiritual

The color violet, often associated with trust, presents a psycho-emotional continuum. In its initial phase, it can manifest as paranoia, representing an extreme form of mistrust. This phase may include unconventional spiritual beliefs and a sense of impending doom. Phase two exhibits a softer mistrust, characterized by suspicion and emotional attachment to unbeneficial positions. Phase three signifies a return to trust, openness to other perspectives, and gratitude for the present.

The cingulate system, comprising the cingulate cortex and gyrus, shares functional similarities with violet wavelengths. It plays a vital role in various functions, including attention-shifting, cognitive flexibility, idea transition, recognizing options, adapting to circumstances, and fostering cooperation. Dysregulation of these functions can lead to worry, obsessions, compulsions, oppositional behavior, or unresolved emotions. While violet visual stimulation is associated with these functions, it’s crucial to understand that addressing these tendencies typically involves multiple facets of brain activity, with violet stimulation serving as just one aspect.

Orange: Color of Perception

Orange, a color that evokes a spectrum of emotions, primarily delves into the profound realm of self-perception. This exploration unfolds across distinct phases, each offering a unique perspective on one’s identity.

In phase one of orange stimulation, individuals often describe themselves as invisible, lost, or devoid of a discernible identity. This phase may manifest as a fragmented sense of self, where identity is so fractured that confusion prevails. Alternatively, some may experience phase one as a psychological “freeze,” characterized by overwhelming feelings of unworthiness. However, with sustained orange stimulation accompanied by effective psychological processing, a more expressive yet still negative phase emerges. Phase two ushers in emotions like rejection, self-hatred, or even rebellion, infusing heightened emotional intensity compared to phase one. Finally, through continued orange stimulation and optimized processing, positive self-perceptions come to the forefront. These perceptions often manifest as confidence, independence, or even align with the Jungian concept of individuation—a potentiated self-perception.

The wavelengths of light within the orange spectrum intricately link with the functions of the prefrontal cortex, particularly the right prefrontal cortex, as validated by scientific research. Specific forms of visual stimulation activate the ventral lateral prefrontal cortex, with orange wavelengths closely aligning with this function. Functions such as self-identification, self-evaluation, and autobiographical memory—all attributed to the right prefrontal cortex—are also activated through appropriate orange visual stimulation.

The implications of activating the right prefrontal cortex are vast. Retrieving autobiographical memories often proves essential for identifying and addressing the root causes of various psychological symptoms. The judicious use of orange visual stimulation can effectively address self-perception issues. By stimulating the right prefrontal cortex in conjunction with well-structured interactive processes, individuals can rebuild their self-esteem, even in cases where previous experiences have inflicted damage on their self-evaluation.

White: The Color of Grounding

White, although the least utilized color in this framework, can wield significant influence, albeit with somewhat inconsistent outcomes. As the amalgamation of all colors, white tends to produce less precise effects. Nevertheless, it can hold power in specific contexts. In its initial phase, white may induce feelings of fragmentation, psychological incongruity, and a draining sensation. Transitioning into phase two, the initial fragmented state transforms into active scatteredness, marked by contradictory expressions and a thwarted urge to address personal issues. Phase three often culminates in a harmonious alignment of diverse aspects, resulting in a sense of upliftment or inspiration.

Magenta:

Magenta, being a fusion of wavelengths from both the blue-violet and red ends of the spectrum, possesses a unique blend of qualities related to these colors. Its multifaceted nature sets it apart from either end of the spectrum. In the primitive parasympathetic phase, magenta can evoke experiences devoid of emotion. Transitioning to the second phase, it tends to trigger heightened emotional responses in general. However, in its modern parasympathetic phase, magenta promotes feelings of safety and trust, accompanied by a constructive sense of pleasure across a wide range of emotional states.

Color Methods:

In Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), color is used to activate certain emotions and their corresponding somatic associations. Here are some ways in which color is thought to have meaning and effects on emotions in ETT therapy:

Color Visualization: ETT therapy often incorporates color visualization techniques. Clients may be guided to visualize specific colors associated with desired emotional states or to process and transform challenging emotions. For example, visualizing calming blue or soothing green can help reduce anxiety or promote relaxation.

Color Breathing: ETT may utilize color breathing exercises where clients focus on specific colors while engaging in deep breathing. This technique aims to enhance emotional regulation and create a shift in emotional states by connecting the breath with the symbolic qualities of the chosen colors.

Color Anchoring: Colors can be used as anchors to link positive emotions or desired states to specific visual cues. By associating a particular color with a desired emotional state during therapy, clients can later use that color as a visual cue to access and activate the associated emotion outside of therapy sessions.

Color Exposure: ETT may involve exposure to specific colors in the environment to influence emotions. This can include utilizing colored lighting or using color filters to create a desired emotional atmosphere during therapy sessions.

Color Association and Meaning-Making: ETT may explore clients’ personal associations and meanings attached to different colors. The therapist and client collaboratively explore the client’s subjective experiences and emotions related to specific colors, allowing for deeper self-reflection and understanding.