When I say I am going to bed, that doesn’t mean I will be asleep in the next few minutes. It just means I will be spending the next thirty minutes shuffling between different ASMR videos to find that one special tingle-inducing roleplay ASMR which will lull me to sleep in twenty more minutes.
ASMR was a term coined in 2010. It refers to Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. While the science behind why and how ASMR happens to individuals is still being probed, its effects on its audience cannot be neglected. But what exactly is ASMR? Does everyone have it?
What Is ASMR?
Simply put, ASMR is a sensation that some people get when they watch and/or hear what is considered a ‘triggering’ video or when they participate in specific activities. The intensity and triggers of ASMR can differ from person to person. Of course, it is also important to note that not everyone experiences an ASMR. But even those who do have varied experiences with some overlapping causes and effects. A typical effect of ASMR is a tingling sensation that originates somewhere in your head and travels down to your spine.
While this may sound absurd or fake, it is infact real and actually very pleasant. Not everyone might get the same amount of ‘tingles’. For some, it is extremely rare to experience this sensation but they are still able to enjoy ASMR owing to its relaxing properties. Therefore, to take part in this pleasurable activity, you don’t need to be someone possessing ‘tingle sensitivity’, you can just stay for the relaxing and calming sounds.
How do you know if you have an ASMR?
Just try to remember: do you have a pleasant sensation running through your body when you get a haircut, or when someone whispers something to you, or when someone brushes your hair or traces their fingers gently on your skin? If your answer is yes, then there is a possibility that you might have an ASMR. You must not shy away from it but experiment: watch ASMR videos and try to find a trigger that sends tingles in your body.
A Good Night’s Sleep
If you visit Youtube and try to search for ASMR videos, you will find that a majority of these cater to getting the viewer ready for a good night’s sleep. Many people who suffer from sleeping disorders or anxiety are able to calm themselves down while watching these videos. Many ASMR videos cater specifically to this. These are usually titled along the lines of “Top 10 Triggers For Sleeping” or “ASMR For People Who Badly NEED Sleep.”
Even if not for sleeping, ASMR can help you calm down when you feel stressed. Many ASMRtists (or ASMR artists) create videos with positive affirmations that can uplift your mood. But if you’re looking for fun, then there are plenty of roleplay ASMR videos which are not only hilarious but also incredibly immersive.
But can watching ASMR videos solve your sleep or anxiety issues? No.
ASMR cannot act as a viable substitute for severe sleep or anxiety issues. These videos are not your prescriptions. If you’re facing actual problems with sleeping, you must consult with a doctor. ASMRtists do not claim to help you solve your problems they just try to create a relaxing environment.
Is ASMR A Fetish?
Many people believe that ASMR is something sexual. I wouldn’t blame them for having this misconception because the discussions around ASMR can appear to be dubious while actually being completely innocent. To clear the air, I would like to tell you that ASMR is not supposed to be sexual. ASMRtists never try to create an atmosphere for sexual arousal, they only focus on relaxation. While there are some people who claim that they get sexually aroused by watching ASMR, their number is pretty limited. Rest assured, ASMRtists’ intention was never sexual, what people chose to use ASMR for is out of their control.
Finding Good ASMR
You can find ASMR videos easily on YouTube. There are broadly two types of ASMR videos: roleplays and trigger-based. Roleplays are fun and immersive and usually involve a lot of talking. Some of the common videos are about getting your makeup done, visiting a doctor, dentist or even getting a haircut. Trigger-based videos are not immersive but can be helpful when you are not trying to focus on the story but just want to listen to your specific trigger(s). Some common triggers are brushing, tapping, tracing, crinkling paper, etc.
As the ASMR community expands, ASMRtists are attempting newer things to stay on top. Some ASMRtists like Atmosphere, WhisperAudios ASMR, Moonlight Cottage ASMR, etc. feature recurring characters with progressing storylines in their ASMR videos which makes them not only ASMRtists but also give them the traits of storytellers and artists. They have elevated ASMR into not just a tingling sensation but an art form with a lot of potential.
So, should you indulge in ASMR?
Why not? There is no harm in trying to find what gives you pleasure in life. ASMR does not hurt anyone and can be a euphoric experience. It is, however, advisable to not continuously listen to ASMR since it might give you ASMR immunity, disabling you from enjoying those triggers again. Therefore, while you should take breaks while engaging in the ASMR community, there is no real harm coming your way if you are an ASMR lover.
Happy tingles!