Orange is found in Egyptian wall and tomb paintings. Medieval artists used it for coloring manuscripts. The pigments came from the stones Realgar and Orpiment which were important trade items. Many cultures used the stones to create poison for arrows because they contain arsenic and are highly toxic!
It has spiritual connotations as well. In Confucianism, orange is the color of transformation. In Hinduism and Buddhism, it is the color of illumination, the highest state of perfection.
There are many hues of orange: tangerine, pumpkin, apricot, marigold, rust peach, vermillion, coral, melon, mango, salmon, goldenrod, burnt orange, terracotta, sunset and dark orange. Darker oranges offer a sense of comfort; some are spicy, some are earthy. Lighter oranges are soothing and healthy.
Negative Attributes Associated with Orange
Frivolous, Lack of Seriousness, Flamboyant, Loud, Crass, Low Class, Lack of Intellectual Values, Bad Taste, Superficial, Insincere, Dependent, Over-Bearing, Self-Indulgent, Unsociable, Exhibitionist, Overly Proud, Abrasive, Pessimistic, Inexpensive and Danger.
Positive Attributes Associated with Orange
Extroverted, Social, Gregarious, Jovial, Joyful, Exuberant, Youthful, Cheerful, Adaptable, Adventurous, Daring, Risk-Taking, Energetic, Creative, Constructive, Happy, Exciting, Optimistic, Positive Outlook, Enthusiastic, Self-Confident, Independent, Flamboyant, Sensual, Uninhibited, Unconventional, Agreeable, and Informal.
Interpreting or Utilizing Orange
- Ted Andrews in his book “Nature Speak” (pgs. 49/50) offers insight into the meaning of orange colors.
“Orange is often found among flowers, insects, birds and reptile kingdoms. Its appearance most often reflects that new energy, new creativity and joy are at hand. Now is the time to balance your worries and recoup your energies.
Orange moves us to act. It is a time to seek out new activities, especially if they are ones, we will find enjoyable. You’ll have the energy and time to pursue creative activities if initiated now.
Questions to ask if orange appears, “Is someone being overly sensitive? Are we allowing emotions to get out of control? Do we need to be a bit more protective of our emotions?”
- Orange is associated with the Sacral or “Svadhisthana” chakra, where we process emotions and experience intimacy. Physically, Svadhisthana governs the health of the reproductive organs, kidneys, bowels, spleen, adrenals, and immune system. It’s also associated with genital or fertility problems, rigidity, isolation, hip or joint issues, and dehydration.
- Orange is the official color for The National Infertility Association which recommends eating orange-colored fruits and vegetables. They provide anti-antioxidants that may help with infertility issues, delay ovarian aging and improve overall reproductive health. High levels of vitamin C and potassium in oranges are used by the adrenal glands to produce cortisol which helps manage stress and prevent fatigue. Oranges provide additional antioxidants that protect cells, support immune function, aid spleen health and reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
- (Consult your doctor for medical advice and dietary support.)
- Orange is the color of the SOUTHEAST direction on the medicine wheel. It is considered the place of “Self – Identity”. There are three questions that form the foundations of self-identity. Answering them helps you choose your company and path more wisely.
- WHO are you, who do you wish to become?
- WHAT are you, what do you wish to pursue?
- With WHOM and HOW do you wish to share your gifts?
- Orange is a great color to use during tough economic times. It’s bright and cheery, motivating us to look on the bright side of life. It assists in recovering from grief and bouncing back from disappointments.
Incorporate more orange color into your life by eating orange fruits and vegetables, wearing orange clothing, drinking from an orange-colored glass, planting orange flowers or using them in a wreath or flower arrangement, adding orange accent pillows or artwork, or even just writing with an orange-colored pen.
Thanks for reading! If you’re interested in a color focused sound healing session, contact wholeharmonichealing@gmail.com
