10 Calming Colors to Soothe and Relax You

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David Em

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Whether painting a room or choosing a wallpaper, calming colors put you at ease. Learn about the best colors that’ll soothe and relax you.

Paint swatches.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Color theory is the art and science of colors. It explains how and why you perceive colors the way you do.

Colors like red and yellow bring warmth, passion, and excitement. A color like blue is calm and trustworthy.

If you want to create a soothing environment, use calming colors.

The best choices and the hex color codes are as follows.

1. Blue

Examples of calming blue colors.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Blue is the number one choice among calming colors. It relaxes you because it represents the sea and sky.

It’s a serene color that’ll put you at ease.

The best part is that you can choose between light or dark blue. Both will help you relax and unwind.

2. Green

Examples of calming green colors.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Green offers a relaxing effect because it represents nature.

It reminds you of being around plants, at a park, or in the forest.

Green gives you a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature.

It creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Light and dark green work best for soothing effects. Avoid bright green, as it can be more reinvigorating.

3. Beige

Examples of beige calming colors.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Beige is a soft and neutral color. It has a soothing effect and is gentle on your eyes.

Beige offers a warm tone and pairs well with any color.

You can choose between a light beige or a darker one closer to tan.

4. Gray

Examples of calming gray colors.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Gray is a calming color because it’s not too light or dark.

Light gray makes a room feel gentle and airy, while dark gray feels relaxing and soothing.

Gray is also a color that represents stability or balance. So, it gives you comfort and puts you at ease.

5. White

Examples of white and off-white colors.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

White is pure, clean, and fresh. If you have a lot on your mind, being in a white room can clear it and give you clarity.

You can also choose an off-white color if you don’t want bright white.

It’s an excellent option because it offers positive and airy vibes.

6. Blush

Examples of blush as a calming color.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Blush is soft and gentle, but it also evokes warmth and intimacy.

It’s a beautiful color and pairs well with gray and green.

While blush has a hint of red, it’s not energizing. The soft tones make it soothing and relaxing.

7. Lavender

Examples of calming lavender shades.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

A lavender color palette ranges from hints of grays to blues. It’s a soft color that soothes your mind and body.

It also reminds you of the lavender plant and its relaxing scent.

Since it’s a shade of purple, lavender also represents royalty and elegance. So, it gives you luxury and comfort.

8. Pastel Yellow

Examples of pastel yellow shades.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Bright yellow gives you energy and excitement. Pastel yellow is the ideal choice for a calming and happy vibe.

It’s gentle on your eyes and soothes your mind. It also gives off a clean feeling.

9. Taupe

Examples of calming taupe shades.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Taupe is a blend of gray, brown, and pink or purple. It’s a neutral and earthy color.

Taupe is soothing, relaxing, and tranquil. It’ll make you feel serene, and it creates a peaceful ambiance.

Taupe reminds you of nature, like sand, stones, and tree trunks. It also offers feelings of stability and safety.

10. Teal

Examples of calming teal shades.
Photo by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

Teal is a combination of blue and green. It’s a refreshing and relaxing color that reminds you of the ocean.

It has a calming effect on your mind and adds the perfect touch of serenity.

You’ll also find that teal relieves stress. So, use it if life gets overwhelming or you need a sanctuary.

Frequently asked questions about calming colors

What’s the most calming color for a room?

Blue is the most calming color for a room. It has a relaxing effect and creates a peaceful sanctuary. Light and dark blues represent the sky and water. They’ll put you at ease when you step into the room.

What’s the color of peace?

White is the color of peace and purity. But blue represents being at peace and tranquility.

What color helps you sleep?

While blue is a calm color, it’s not ideal as lighting for sleep. Red and amber are the best colors for sleep lighting because they’re warm and soothing. Red light doesn’t suppress melatonin. You’ll be able to fall asleep fast and have restorative rest.

Final thoughts

Calming colors soothe you and help you relax. Blue, green, and light colors have a healing effect.

Use them by painting walls or putting them as your phone’s wallpaper. It gives you a serene and peaceful vibe.

Related: Calming Activities to Relax

Featured image by David Em/Relaxation Hero.

David Em.

David Em

David Em is the Founder of Relaxation Hero. He created this site to provide tips and resources to help you relax. Outside of Relaxation Hero, David is the CEO of Everyone Media Group. He also enjoys hiking, running, and traveling.