The Colour Red


RED relates to the BASE chakra situated at the base of the spine
The organs to which this chakra relates are the kidneys and bladder .(The kidneys are formed within the pelvis and here they link with the base chakra energy, although prior to birth they rise to the position in the loins with which we are more familiar). The vertebral column, hips and legs are also areas related to this chakra. The endocrine gland to which this colour relates is the adrenal gland.

On the psycho-spiritual level, this chakra relates to self awareness. That is to say our awareness of ourselves as human beings and our place on earth. It is the area of survival and relates to our basic human instincts of fight or flight. Red gives us courage and strength. The colour relates to stability and security.

Associated problems

Some problems associated with the base chakra are:- constipation, diarrhea, piles, colitis, Crohn's disease, cold fingers and toes, frequency of urination, hypertension (high blood pressure), kidney stones, impotence, problems with hips, legs and feet.

Some Positive and negative aspects of the colour Red

positive aspects of this colour negative aspects of this colour
Courageous Fearful
Pioneering spirit Fear of progress
Leadership qualities Ruthless
Strong willed Brutal/ Aggressive
Confident Domineering
Energetic Resentful
Determined Self pitying
Spontaneous Obstinate
  Quick tempered

Using Red in Colour Therapy

Red is the lowest of the seven colours in the visible spectrum and is known as a "warm" colour. It is stimulating and energising therefore it is helpful for tiredness and lethargy, to stimulate low blood pressure, to boost sluggish circulation. NB Red should not be used on anyone, with hypertension/high blood pressure since this colour increases blood flow. (That is to say as a colour treatment). Pink may be used instead in such cases.

Red, in its most positive sense, is the colour for courage, strength and pioneering spirit. However, in the most negative aspect, it is the colour of anger, violence and brutality and, interestingly, before world war two it was noted that a lot of red was being worn.

Using colours well in the home is a way of creating a balanced environment. Red is energising and excites the emotions, and can stimulate the appetite.(Often used in restaurants). It can be used in any activity area but red needs careful choice of tone and depth and the space in which it is to be used as it can make a space look smaller and can be claustrophobic or oppressive. However, used well, red and its variations, can make a space feel warm and cosy.