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A seemingly new phenomenon known as ASMR has made its way across the world of social media in recent years. ASMR might spark thoughts of nails tapping gently on microphones, whispering, or even something else entirely. Characterized by soft, repetitive sounds and soothing visuals, ASMR content aims to elicit a calming 'tingling' sensation that many find deeply relaxing. But what exactly is ASMR, and why has it become such an online sensation, captivating millions worldwide?
Curious to learn more about ASMR? Click through now.
ASMR, or autonomous sensory meridian response, is a relaxing sensory and emotional experience that can be triggered by different sights, sounds, or sensations.
ASMR can make people feel relaxed and excited simultaneously. This reaction is paradoxical but usually soothes the individual watching or listening.
Responses associated with ASMR are actually involuntary. Either you are stimulated or you aren't, it can't be forced.
The feelings typically associated with ASMR are likely as old as time. However, before about 2010, the phenomenon didn't have a name. Then came social media and ASMR became a buzzword.
Not everything is answered yet but it's suggested that ASMR triggers specific regions of the brain that are associated with relaxation.
Doctors also say that ASMR can boost your mood and change brain waves. Specifically, your theta waves, which tend to go up during activities of mindfulness such as meditation or prayer, will increase in strength during ASMR.
In a 2018 study, people who experienced ASMR were put in an fMRI machine to witness what areas of the brain were affected. The study found that the areas associated with reward and emotional arousal lit up.
In short, the findings mean that ASMR isn't just "in your head." ASMR has been shown to improve symptoms of chronic pain and reduce heart rate.
To find out if you can experience ASMR it is important to try exposing yourself to it. Focus on different triggers and see which, if any, impacts you and how.
According to researchers, about 10% to 20% of people experience ASMR. Additionally, a 2022 study found that if you are quite anxious then you may enjoy the ASMR experience more.
Yes, certain characteristics could prevent ASMR from occurring or actually trigger a negative response.
ASMR may be overstimulating if you have any or all of the following: misophonia, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or if you're a highly sensitive person.
Certain sounds and sensations will be pleasurable for some and not for others. The aforementioned studies also asked the participants to share their triggers.
There were 13 actions that over 50% of the participants in the study identified as triggers. The top five were: people speaking softly, having their hair played with or brushed, whispering, close personal attention, and getting a haircut.
Some ASMR videos involve the content creator looking into the camera and speaking words of affirmation softly or tending to the viewer in some way.
Clinical ASMR videos usually are shot from the recipient's point of view. It might include seeing a doctor performing a fake exam or an esthetician giving a relaxing facial massage.
The word "effleurage" is a French word that typically comes up in ASMR research. It describes light touch or other common triggers such as being lightly tickled or playing with slime.
A common feature of ASMR is binaural sound. This audio recording technique helps mimic real-life interactions more closely. In short, you will hear different sounds in each ear.
This now multi-million dollar industry can help with anxiety and depression. ASMR can be a great option for those who can't be more active.
The anecdotal evidence says that ASMR helps with improving sleep, boosting mood, relieving pain, improving concentration, and alleviating headaches.
Though it isn't a clinically approved treatment in general, people have raved about its positive effects in relaxing and coping with stress.
Professionals say that they don't see ASMR losing momentum. It's a free, user-friendly, and pleasurable way to access something that's ingrained deeply in us.
The response your brain has to ASMR is very similar to the response it has to affiliative behaviors or activities that make us feel closer to one another. Examples of affiliative behaviors include connecting with friends, family members, or a partner.
ASMR communities can be healing to join as they bring together people with common interests and allow you to connect.
Over time, you may become less sensitive to ASMR stimuli thereby making the triggers less enjoyable or effective.
It is OK and even very effective for some to listen to ASMR each night. You may have to listen to more or different ASMR after some time, but it's not unhealthy to do so.
Yes, you could try whispering to yourself and speaking in a calm voice. Also, try crinkling paper, using rainsticks, or engaging in light tapping.
Sources: (Clevland Clinic) (Psychology Today)
See also: The surprising ways social media can impact your teen
What is ASMR and why is it so popular?
The oddly satisfying trend that took over the internet
LIFESTYLE Phenomenon
A seemingly new phenomenon known as ASMR has made its way across the world of social media in recent years. ASMR might spark thoughts of nails tapping gently on microphones, whispering, or even something else entirely. Characterized by soft, repetitive sounds and soothing visuals, ASMR content aims to elicit a calming 'tingling' sensation that many find deeply relaxing. But what exactly is ASMR, and why has it become such an online sensation, captivating millions worldwide?
Curious to learn more about ASMR? Click through now.