Green is good for mood

If you feel a jolt of energy by wearing a festive green outfit or seem relaxed after sipping green beer this St. Patrick’s Day, don’t be surprised. Studies show color can influence your mood, behavior and stress levels. Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone Color Institute, has these tips:

At home. Create a more serene space by using green instead of neutrals on walls or furniture. “It’s like taking a walk in the woods, and wherever you use it in the home, it will have that effect,” Eiseman says. “Bringing some fresh green into the atmosphere is a great way of tying your mind to the fact that there is beauty in nature, and that’s a very calming aspect of what green is all about.”

At work. Increase your motivation by placing a piece of green glass, a globe or artwork featuring a nature scene in your workspace. “Our productivity increases when we feel good about our surroundings.” Eiseman says. “As long as it’s something you surround yourself with and that your eye can linger on for awhile, it will imbue you with a sense of what that color means.”

At meals. Encourage healthy eating by serving food on green dishes.