ASMR is taking the internet by storm. From crunchy slime to eating shows, many viewers enjoy listening to sounds that trigger a tingling-like sensation. On the other hand, others find ASMR to be a hypothetical way to reduce stress or they even perceive it as irritating.
ASMR is uncommonly known as Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. In response to a sound, the body experiences a satisfying tingling sensation throughout the body. For example, food chewing, unique speech patterns or crunchy sounds can trigger a sensation that puts the listener in a euphoric state. Due to this effect, ASMR videos and channels garner millions of views by posting specific types of sounds. SAS-ASMR, a well-known eating channel on YouTube, gathers millions of views on videos that focus on the chewing of different types of food. Her most popular video titled “ASMR HONEYCOMB (Extremely STICKY SATISFYING EATING SOUNDS) NO TALKING” has 27 million views and 270 thousand likes. While the popularity of these videos is partially due to sharing on social media platforms, it is also because the videos effectively put the listener at ease.
A major misconception of ASMR is that it is only effective for one category of people. However, everyone is triggered by different sounds. For example, one person might be triggered by the sounds of sticky objects while crunchy sounds are more effective for another. Many that claim ASMR is not effective may have simply not found the right match for them. With that being said, ASMR does not guarantee effective results for everyone. Some people experience Misophonia, the hypersensitivity of specific sounds. As a result, ASMR produced by certain objects may irritate and disturb rather than cause relaxation.
Although ASMR may seem like another absurd trend on the internet, it has scientifically proven benefit of calming the listener. Studies show that out of a pool of people, those that listened to ASMR generally had a lower heart rate and experienced positive emotions.
The effects of ASMR are extremely different for everyone. Some may feel more unstable after listening to AMSR videos while others are put at ease. In spite of the fact that ASMR can reduce stress, it is not a long-term solution to prolonged stress or anxiety. Serious issues require professional attention and legitimate care in order to ensure a full recovery. Nevertheless, watching ASMR videos on a variety of social media platforms appeals to many people around the world.
Article by Moco Student staff writer Ellen Zhang of Churchill High School