Using color for stress reduction has been around for decades, maybe centuries. Some experts say red increases energy on one hand, but is more stressful on the other. And there’s a reason why folks seeking relaxation go places to find blue sky, blue oceans, green mountains and white clouds.
But, the truth be told, it’s still an inexact science.
Stressreductionbasics.com suggests there are no good or bad colors; use colors for what you need. For example, a mix of red and blue when you need energy, but avoid the combination when you need to relax, unless it’s the hue nature uses when making one of her brilliant sunsets. And we’ve all heard that orange and burgundy enhances appetite, which accounts for the motifs of a number of restaurants.
Jami Lin, owner of a couple of private companies, Feng-Shui Design  and Color Alchemy offered some hints about using color to de-stress your holidays. Keep in mind this is not scientifically validated:
– Decorate for the holidays with green candles, table cloths, and ornaments to support harmony with family and friends. Feature green accent pillows and other emerald accessories to help keep that peaceful feeling throughout the year.
– Instead of traditional red accents, which may cause impatience, use blue (green’s partner) for more natural inspiration. Just like the color of a crisp, springtime sky, add blue silk flowers, bows, or ornaments for more tranquility.
– Think ecology and green energy when creating your gifts to be responsible for the environment at the same time.
– Since red excites and energizes, fill a red container with cookies to sweeten the most seasoned sourpuss.
– Orange inspires play and spontaneity, so make a small,  whimsical orange-flower arrangement to brighten a work-aholic’s desk.
– Yellow commands confidence, so bead a yellow bracelet with special charms for timid children, friends, or co-workers.
– Green lovingly nurtures, so try a gift of an IOU with the gift of quality time. Show up with a picnic basket and head off to sit beneath a wise, old tree.
– Blue clears the mind and is thought provoking. Make a gift of your favorite water and sky picture (that you took yourself) in a frame.
– Indigo inspires insight, so make a make a gift card for an evening walk in the country to count shooting stars.
– Violet quiets and deepens inner peace. Sew an eye pillow in luxurious purple fabric filled with dried lavender.
– Wear blue to keep your thoughts clear.