What the ASMR?

Some of us may have only heard about Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) and some of us may have experienced it. The physical feeling of a tingling sensation that can start in the scalp and move down the spine, goosebumps, hair raising feeling similar to static, or a combination of relaxation and excitement at the same time.

Per experts, these feelings aren’t triggered in everyone. Those who do experience it can be triggered by slow movements on the body, light touches, specific crisp sounds or even whispering. Each of us is different. So, our triggers and physical responses may vary from each other. Regardless of how each of us responds, some mental health professionals believe that any response combats feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.

Something like watching videos the depict scalp scratching, mukbangs, interaction with slimly or sticky things, or microphone manipulation to get varying sounds are all forms of ASMR. That sound stimulates the body and a portion our brain that triggers various feelings.

Some believe there is a biological science behind it. Others believe it’s purely about ASMR forcing us to be present and fully focussed on what we’re hearing or feeling. This focus moves us away from the thoughts and feelings that cause the stress, anxiety or depression. Simply put, it shifts our focus from “the bad” to “the good”. And, this shift helps to release the good chemicals in our bodies that ultimately make us feel better.

ASMR came about in 2010. Despite being considered a form of anecdotal therapy, there is still a lot to learn about it. So, it shouldn’t be used as a replacement for existing therapies or be considered an official treatment for trauma symptoms.

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