ASMR is a new trend that many people use to help them sleep, but could it help you? Let’s find out!
What is ASMR?
“Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a tingling sensation that usually begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. A pleasant form of paresthesia, it has been compared with auditory-tactile synesthesia and may overlap with frisson.” (Wikipedia.org)
What does that mean? ASMR is the positive feeling you get when listening to certain sounds. Of course, the sounds that invoke a positive response in one person are not always the same sounds that others will enjoy. The sounds that help some sleep, for example, would keep others awake.
On YouTube, @caringwhispersASMR records herself in several different simulated situations, such as the eye doctor’s office. With 33,100 subscribers, she is clearly reaching many people who find the sounds helpful when trying to relax.
What Sounds Cause ASMR?
Any sound could technically lead to a response, but according to Nebraska Medicine, the most popular sounds seem to be:
- Talking softly or moving slowly
- Tapping or typing
- Close personal attention or eye contact
- Massage, hair brushing, or haircuts
- Humming or chewing
- Light patterns
- Slowly turning a page or folding paper
- Scratching, crisp, or squishing sounds
- Squishing or crunching sounds
- Applying makeup to the face
How Does ASMR Work?
To feel ASMR, users watch a video and focus on the noises created during the video. The expected response starts with a tingling sensation in the crown of the head. One study completed on ASMR registered a reduced heart rate and “increased skin conductance” (meaning skin sensitivity).
The response is extremely pleasant and helps many people relax enough to sleep more easily.
Is ASMR A Form Of Meditation?
Yes! According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Meditation is a practice that involves focusing or clearing your mind using a combination of mental and physical techniques.” The purpose of meditation is to relieve stress, increase focus, and calm the mind. ASMR has similar benefits.
How Can You Experience ASMR?
Easy! There are thousands of videos promising the responses you want. Knowing which sounds appeal to you will speed up the process. We recommend removing all other distractions, choosing a time when you will not be interrupted, and ensuring you are in a comfortable setting. Finding the sounds that work for you may take some practice, but the end result could be worth it.
If you have trouble sleeping and ASMR is not your path, reach out now. We can set you up with a sleep study to diagnose the true cause of your complaint.
