Whispers, sounds with water or the rubbing in the microphone are part of the stimulation caused by the autonomous meridian sensory response (ASMR), an effect that goes beyond a simple auditory tingle. Studies reveal that these soft and repetitive sounds can generate physiological and emotional reactions that contribute to reducing tension and improving concentration.
Consolidated as an increasingly popular complementary therapy, ASMR is transformed into a sense of relaxation that is accompanied by a bodily tingling in response to the stimuli performed by who stars in the video or audio.
The conversation emphasizes that the ASMR “is an ‘answer’, a reaction of the body to one or more stimuli; ‘Meridiana’, which causes a peak of pleasure; ‘sensory’, since it is caused by stimuli such as soft sounds; and ‘autonomous’, because it occurs involuntarily, without the person who experiences it consciously controls it”.
Ximena Fuentes, clinical psychologist, details that the sensory response to pleasure and relaxation begins in the scalp, extends through the neck and column, and causes a sensation of tingling that can even bristle the skin.
This experience is triggered by auditory, visual or tactile stimuli, such as whispers, soft blows, slow movements or simulated attention through roles. With specialized microphones, who apply this therapeutic complement use delicate voices or generate pleasant sounds such as paper crunch, nail rubbing or foam with the microphone, or virtual stimulation that triggers a deeply relaxing sensory experience, the conversation details.
ASMR has earned attention in recent years and, although scientific research is still in initial stages, there is evidence and testimonies that suggest real benefits for many people, sources stand out.
As for experience, National Geographic It details that “it is likely that around 10% to 20% of the world population can experience ASMR.”
ASMR benefits as sensory therapy
Sources highlights that, although it does not replace medical or psychological treatments, ASMR is considered a form of self -care or complementary therapy that helps the regulation of emotions, mainly in times of tension or during the night, when stress has accumulated.
“From a neurological perspective, it has been proposed that it could activate systems related to reward and social linking, similar to those that are activated during interpersonal close experiences,” he explained.
Among the benefits that the expert detailed are:
- Stress relaxation and reduction: Studies have shown that those who experience ASMR have a decrease in their heart rate, which suggests a physiological state of relaxation.
- Improvement of sleep: ASMR helps to reconcile sleep because it reduces anxiety or stress and facilitates the transition to a deep rest.
- Relief of anxiety or depression symptoms: Qualitative surveys and studies suggest that ASMR can temporarily relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression. “It is not a cure or a medical treatment, but a form of evasion through sensory stimuli that can act as an emotional regulator,” says Fuentes.
- Increased concentration: sounds like the Tapping Or soft whispers improve the ability to concentrate, especially during repetitive tasks or that require constant attention.
- Simulation of affection or personal attention: Recreation of couple, friends or family roles within videos can generate a comforting emotional connection, since they evoke feelings of intimacy and care.
The sensory response to the pleasure and relaxation of the ASMR begins in the scalp, extends through the neck and column, and causes a sensation of tingling that can even bristle the skin details experts. (Photo: Free Press / Shuttersock)
Effects of ASMR on the brain and how it is stimulated
The conversation indicates that ASMR stimulation has physiological and emotional effects, since these sounds activate the limbic system, which generates a feeling of relief.
“ASMR stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as oxytocin, associated with the feeling of calm we experience during affectionate physical contact; dopamine, which is related to reward and pleasure; and serotonin and endorphins, which help reduce stress and encourage relaxation,” he adds.
Regarding their cerebral physiological reach, scientists have found a decrease in the activity of Alfa and Theta waves, associated with relaxation and resting state, and an increase in beta waves, related to concentration and alert state, which causes relaxation and greater content collection.