You might be one of those people who obsess about ASMR videos on TikTok and YouTube. You enjoy the almost tickling effect it has on you when someone taps their nails on the table or whispers very softly when speaking on a microphone, well, experts claim that there is a reason why this happens.
What is ASMR?
According to the medical information hub, Healthline, Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), is a sensation experienced by people when exposed to certain stimuli such as sounds, visuals, or close contact. It is described as a tingling sensation or a calm feeling. The publication mentions that researchers believe that ASMR may be influenced by brain responses to certain stimuli, such as whistles, tapping, scratching, slow hand movements, repetitive tasks, and close personal attention.
“When the participants felt the classic tingling sensation, their brains showed activity in the areas that control emotion and empathy as well as areas associated with social engagement and related activities (grooming, for example). ASMR may cause the brain to release certain neurohormones. People report feeling sleepy, comforted, and relaxed with ASMR and that the neurohormones dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins are closely associated with these feelings.”
How it feels
The WebMD states that ASMR is sometimes referred to as a “brain orgasm,” explaining that the shivery sensation (often referred to as “chills”) that you receive from an emotional event, such as listening to a lovely piece of music, is different from the tingling sensation that ASMR induces. According to experts, where you have it makes a difference between the two.
The above source further explains that “Chills” frequently strike all at once and everywhere, whereas when you experience ASMR, you may feel tingling in your arms and legs in addition to your head and neck. “It may also happen in waves or pulses.”
How does it help?
This is a relaxation technique that has been studied for its potential to help with stress, chronic pain, insomnia, depression, and anxiety, states Nebraska Medicine. While some studies suggest that ASMR can reduce heart rate, there is no empirical evidence that it reliably changes mood or has lasting effects on mental health.
“While there is growing interest in ASMR these days, the fact remains that there are still relatively few scientific studies conducted to date, including studies on the conditions which may trigger an ASMR state. While the experience may include a genuine physiological response, much more scientific research is needed to begin to understand the nature of the ASMR phenomenon.”
Also see: How to practice self forgiveness
