Colour is derived from light. Without light, growth cannot take place and life could not exist.

In a work of art, the artist recognises three primary colours; each with a different wavelength. The artist combines these colours to form secondary and tertiary colours, and do further combinations to add beauty to her piece of work.

Different colours affect each one of us differently, so it is for us to assess the effects of basic colours upon ourselves. Just stand at a vantage point anywhere on Mother Earth and view the splendour of colours around you - from the earth to the sky.

During the sunlight, the sea gives dark and light hues of blue, yet when you take up the water in your hand, it is clear, not blue. In the skies, we see a different sunset or sunrise, all one of a kind; yet, the rainbow is always the same.

Colours do play on our emotions, as we would say, 'I am feeling blue' when we are low in spirit; 'I am green with envy' or 'I saw red' when angry. Culturally, we dress our little baby boys in blue and girls in pink, and our widows in black.

Colour in the use of diseases is called chromo-therapy. Here are some colour uses:

Red - an exciting colour for energy when one feels fatigued. It also stirs the senses of passion, gives vitality, stimulates strength, joy and happiness, as well as provides warmth. This is the most sought after colour at Christmas time.

The negative part of red is that it can bring out anger and fear. This colour is most disturbing for persons suffering from mental problems and neuroses. This colour is used for persons having a severe case of depression.

Orange - this is a combination of red and yellow and therefore contains the nature of both. Orange stimulates creativity, self-confidence and ideas. Excessive exposure to orange can produce nervousness and restless behaviour. It is interesting that the fruits and vegetables that are orange in colour are highly nutritious antioxidants.

Yellow - this is a joyous colour bringing out wisdom understanding and insight. This colour represents peace, and reflections. Yellow adds to stress for flight or fight. Nurseries painted with this colour cause children to cry more often and allergies to flare up.

Green - this colour depicts nature, soothing, peaceful and has great healing powers. Green soothes pains and re-charge the spirit when depressed. Dark green can be depressing.; lime green is thought to have a sedative effect. When an individual is surrounded with green, allergic reaction to foods is reduced.

Blue - is very calming as a bath in blue water for persons suffering from hypertension and also lowers body temperature. Soft blue clothes provide the greatest protection against the sun's rays in the tropics.

Violet - elevates the spirit to a higher consciousness, and is associated with productivity and prosperity. This colour controls irritability and reduces hunger. It is said that the power of meditation is 10 times greater under the violet light falling through the stained glass window of a quiet church.