If you’ve spent any time on the internet, then chances are you’ve come across ASMR videos.
These videos feature people creating different sounds and visual stimuli that are designed to trigger a physical and emotional response in the viewer. While some people may find ASMR videos strange or even unsettling, for others, they’re a powerful tool for relaxation and stress relief.
What is ASMR, Exactly?
“And what are these tingling sensations I’m getting?”
What you’re likely experiencing while watching these videos is ASMR, or Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. These “tingles” are a response certain people get to specific stimuli. These stimuli can be auditory, visual, or even tactile, and can include things like whispering, tapping, or the sound of crinkling paper. In fact, certain sounds have been found to help you sleep.
The popularity of ASMR videos has exploded in recent years, with countless channels on YouTube and other social media platforms dedicated to creating content specifically designed to trigger the ASMR response. These videos can be incredibly diverse, ranging from the sound of someone eating chips to a virtual haircut or even a guided meditation.
Relaxing Benefits of ASMR
While research and documentation for the phenomenon is still limited, a study found that about 81% of its participants observed feelings of relaxation after watching ASMR videos.
Not everyone experiences ASMR, but for those who do, they can come away feeling different benefits, like the following:
- Reduced Stress: Listening to soothing sounds and visual stimuli can be incredibly effective at reducing stress levels. ASMR videos can provide a calming distraction from the worries and anxieties of daily life, helping to promote a sense of relaxation and well-being.
- Improved Sleep: Many people find that listening to ASMR videos before bed can help them fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly throughout the night. The gentle sounds and visual triggers can create a sense of calm that’s conducive to a good night’s rest and improved sleep hygiene.
- Anxiety Relief: For people who struggle with anxiety, ASMR videos can provide a valuable tool for managing symptoms. By creating a sense of relaxation and calm, ASMR videos can help to ease racing thoughts, reduce muscle tension, and promote a more balanced emotional state. However, it’s always encouraged that you seek a mental health professional if you feel like you couldn’t handle your anxiety on your own.
- Encouraging Relaxation Techniques: ASMR videos can also serve as a helpful tool for learning and practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization. By pairing these techniques with soothing sounds and visuals, viewers can enhance their effectiveness and experience even deeper levels of relaxation.
Maximize Rest, Minimize Stress
ASMR videos may not be for everyone, but for those who experience the tingling sensation, they can be a powerful tool for relaxation and stress relief. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, or simply want to explore a new form of media, ASMR videos are worth checking out.
If it’s not for you, that’s no problem. How your body relaxes, responds to stress, and gets better quality sleep can differ from person to person according to their genetic sleep profile. CircleDNA can help reveal this information along with a treasure trove of genetic insights to help you make informed decisions for your health and wellbeing, including how you choose to sleep and recharge.
