Color Theory // Fall 2015 School Supplies

I feel like now that I am beginning my last year of college I have finally gotten it figured out. And by IT is mean what kind of school supplies I like and need for a successful school year. Which is a bummer because I feel like now that I have it all down I'm almost done with school. Like where was this knowledge 5 years ago? I should just keep on going to school forever. JK let's not do that, Abigail.

A big part of getting ready for school is me planning out what notebooks will be used for what classes and just making sure everything is in its place. Tidying up my best and bookshelves makes me feel in control and gives me confidence that if I can get my books color coded then I can definitely do well in my classes.

Another thing I consider when getting my school supplies together is how it looks. Seeing nice and pretty colors of notebooks and folders and pens can actually help you relax, stay focused, de-stress, or be inspired. It's all about color theory and your personal aesthetics.

Cooler colors like blues, green, and purples will have a calming effect and your brain will interpret them as slowing down your mind and thoughts and give you a sense of calm.

Warmer colors like red, yellow, and orange will make your eyes dance around and your brain will be energized while looking at warmer colors and have a tendency to do things faster.

Most of my notebooks are cooler colors because I know I tend to get stressed out and my thoughts go a mile a minute during the school year so it is nice to give my mind a little color therapy.

Personal preference can also play a role too. Personally I do not like orangey/yellow colors. I don't know why! I also don't like bold or jewel tone colors. My eye would be much happier looking at pastels or ocean blue. They are more pleasing to my eye.

In yoga while meditating some yogis use a Yantra- it is a design or color that is believed to be associated to certain divine traits. You stare at it while meditating to connect to your inner and outer divine. Kinda like a mantra but for your eyes. Incorporating designs and colors that resonate with you in your daily life can be a little reminder to pause and meditate on that quality.

I used Canva to design cover pages for my binders. I made my graphics super simple and minimalist because that is more calming and realizing than a busy and full design. But if you tend to fall asleep or need some motivation during the school year than maybe a busier design would serve you better.

I know not all of my readers are going back to school, but I think these yoga principles applied to design can really apply to everyone and help you find your personal aesthetic.