Fwd: Green stands as a symbol of life...

Green stands as a symbol of life, growth and harmony. It brings us comfort, relaxation and wellness.

When we think of green, we imagine many of nature's offerings such as forests, trees, grass, olives, apples, lichen, jade and emerald. Green's strong link with nature seems to bring us closer to nature and to one another.

In addition to fostering peace of mind, green seems to balance certain of our physiological functions, among them our heart, lungs and blood circulation. Certain studies even suggest that green promotes deep, slow breathing. Colour therapists use green to cure a number of ailments.

Those who dress in green tend to be careful, inclined to observe rather than act. They also display a humanitarian spirit, enjoy helping others and tend to notice details that others simply overlook.

In decoration, certain nuances of green, such as mint and aqua, are considered refreshing. Apple and lime green are more stimulating and create an atmosphere of joy and lightness, while darker shades such as bottle and olive green can add a touch of calm to a décor. Thanks to its inherent qualities, green, in one of its many nuances, suits any room and brings a welcome touch of nature into our lives.

In the Middle Ages, green was considered the colour of calamity and evil, and was associated with the Devil itself. It symbolized superstition to the point where one avoided dressing in green.

In occidental culture, over time, people gradually dissociated green from evil. It became a symbol of fate and randomness, both positive and negative.

In some circumstances, green is associated with instability, uncertainty and ephemerality, be it in relation to love, hope, youth or games. One need only think of gambling tables that have been green since at least the eighteenth century, billiard tables, ping-pong tables, tennis courts, football and baseball fields. Instability, randomness, victory and defeat all dress in green.

Among green's virtues: a calming effect on the nervous system, a feeling of relaxation, an anti-stress prescription. Green creates a reassuring ambience, a feeling of comfort and a link with nature.

Green evokes nature, health and a number of other thoughts. Some expressions we use attest to the symbolism of green: to give someone the green light (permission), to be green behind the ears (inexperienced), to be green with envy (jealous), to have a green thumb (be to a good gardener).