There are lots of reasons why you should make ASMR videos. Some people use them for stress relief, some for sleep, and others for relaxing and unwinding. While the exact reasons why do people like ASMR are still being studied, it is clear that it can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being.
Whether you’re helping someone with insomnia or are interested in trying something new, continue reading to learn all about ASMR.
What’s the Point of ASMR?
If you’re unfamiliar with ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response), it’s a growing genre of videos designed to trigger a tingling sensation in the scalp and neck. These videos, usually very relaxing, have exploded in popularity over the past few years.
While it has been around for decades, it’s only recently become a mainstream phenomenon. YouTube recently announced that there are over a million channels from the genre on its platform. This is great news for people who enjoy ASMR content—and it also means that there are plenty of opportunities for new creators to get into the game.
Practical Applications
ASMR serves practical purposes for many individuals. Its primary point lies in providing relaxation and stress relief. ASMR content, especially videos designed for relaxation or sleep, can help people unwind after a long day, manage stress, and promote a sense of calmness. It’s like a soothing audiovisual tool that can be easily accessed to alleviate tension and anxiety.
- Better Sleep: One of the significant points of ASMR is its role as a sleep aid. Many people struggle with sleep-related issues, such as insomnia or difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts. ASMR content, particularly those with gentle whispers and calming visuals, can create a serene atmosphere conducive to sleep. By helping individuals relax and quiet their minds, ASMR contributes to improved sleep quality.
- Emotional Comfort: ASMR can provide emotional comfort and support. The personal attention roleplays often found in ASMR videos make viewers feel cared for and nurtured, which can be particularly meaningful during challenging or stressful times. For some, watching ASMR content is a way to self-soothe and find solace in moments of distress.
- Artistic Expression: ASMR is not just about relaxation; it’s also a form of artistic expression. ASMR creators carefully craft their content to provide unique and enjoyable experiences for their viewers. They experiment with various triggers and scenarios, demonstrating their creativity and dedication to their craft. ASMR has become a platform for artists to express themselves and connect with their audience through sensory experiences.
Why Do People Like ASMR?
There are many reasons why people watch ASMR videos. Some people enjoy the sensation of tingling and relaxation that comes with watching videos, while others use them as a way to unwind at the end of a stressful day.
Many people find that these videos help them fall asleep faster or enjoy using them in bed as they drift off to sleep. Here are the reason why do people like ASMR:
- Sensory Pleasure and Relaxation: ASMR triggers a unique sensory experience characterized by a tingling sensation, often beginning in the scalp and traveling down the spine. This physical response is accompanied by a deep sense of relaxation. Many people find this sensation pleasurable and seek out ASMR content as a way to unwind and de-stress after a long day. It can be likened to a soothing massage for the mind.
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: ASMR has gained recognition as a natural stress-relief tool. The slow, deliberate pacing of ASMR videos, coupled with gentle sounds and visuals, can calm the nervous system. Watching ASMR content can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with anxiety or high levels of stress. It provides a moment of respite from the demands of daily life.
- Sleep Aid: ASMR is often used as a sleep aid. Many people struggle with insomnia or have difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts. ASMR content, especially those designed for bedtime, can lull viewers into a state of relaxation, making it easier to drift off to sleep. The soothing sounds and whispered voices can create a peaceful environment conducive to rest.
- Emotional Comfort: ASMR can provide emotional comfort to individuals. The personal attention roleplays often found in ASMR videos can make viewers feel cared for and nurtured. This can be especially meaningful for those who may be going through challenging times or feeling isolated.
- Community and Connection: ASMR has given rise to a thriving online community of creators and viewers. Enthusiasts often discuss their favorite ASMR artists and triggers with others, creating a sense of belonging. The ability to connect with like-minded individuals who share an appreciation for ASMR can enhance the overall experience and provide a feeling of community.
- Variety and Personalization: ASMR offers a wide variety of triggers and experiences. Different people are responsive to different ASMR triggers, such as whispering, tapping, scratching, or personal attention scenarios. This diversity allows individuals to personalize their ASMR experiences, finding content that resonates most with them.
- Cultural and Individual Factors: Cultural backgrounds and personal experiences can also play a role in why people like ASMR. For example, certain sounds or triggers may hold cultural significance, and individuals may be drawn to ASMR content that aligns with their cultural or personal preferences.
- Creative Expression: ASMR creators often view their content as a form of creative expression. They carefully craft their videos to provide unique and enjoyable experiences for their viewers. This creativity and dedication to producing high-quality content can enhance the appeal of ASMR.
Is ASMR Weird?
While ASMR may have faced misconceptions and varying perceptions in the past, it is gradually gaining recognition and acceptance as a legitimate form of relaxation and stress relief.
ASMR should not be considered weird, but rather as a personal preference that offers comfort and relaxation to those who appreciate its unique sensory experiences.
ASMR vs. Fetishization
One common misconception is that ASMR is a form of fetishization or has a sexual undertone. However, it’s essential to differentiate between ASMR and fetishization. ASMR, at its core, is a non-sexual sensory experience.
It aims to induce relaxation and tingling sensations in response to specific triggers like soft-spoken voices or tapping sounds. The focus of ASMR is on comfort and calmness rather than sexual arousal.
While there may be some overlap in content, particularly due to the intimate nature of personal attention roleplays, it’s crucial to recognize that ASMR as a whole is not inherently sexual.
ASMR and Everyday Life
Another misconception is that ASMR is something unusual or disconnected from everyday life. In reality, ASMR can be integrated seamlessly into daily routines. Many individuals use ASMR videos as a tool for relaxation, stress relief, or to help them sleep better.
It’s not much different from other forms of relaxation, like listening to soothing music or practicing mindfulness. ASMR content creators often aim to provide viewers with a comforting and familiar experience, making it a part of their everyday lives.
Public Awareness and Acceptance
ASMR has gained increasing public awareness and acceptance over the years. As more people discover ASMR and its benefits, it becomes less stigmatized. Popular media outlets have covered ASMR, and many celebrities and influencers openly discuss their appreciation for ASMR content.
This growing awareness and acceptance indicate that ASMR is becoming more mainstream and less “weird” in the eyes of the public.
Varied Perceptions
Opinions about ASMR can vary widely. Some people may find ASMR weird or uncomfortable due to a lack of familiarity with the phenomenon. This perception is often rooted in misunderstanding or a lack of exposure.
However, as more individuals explore ASMR and understand its therapeutic and relaxing aspects, their opinions may evolve. It’s essential to respect diverse opinions and recognize that what may seem unusual to one person is a source of comfort and relaxation for another.
What Do ASMR Triggers Look Like?
ASMR triggers can be auditory or visual stimuli. They can be a whisper, tapping, crinkling, brushing, and more—anything that causes you to experience the tingles in your head and scalp.
You may have noticed that some ASMR videos use visuals while others feature only sounds. Remember to treat the visuals as icing on your cake. Focus on your auditory triggers, which are the main drivers for getting the sensation.
Also, note that ASMR is a personal experience. What works for one person might not work for another, and vice versa. The more you explore the genre, the more likely you will find what works best for you and your audience.
Why Make ASMR videos?
As the popularity of ASMR grows, it’s increasingly common to see videos on YouTube and elsewhere that aim to relax or soothe viewers. Many people find these videos very relaxing and can be a good way to unwind after a stressful day.
It is also compared to the feeling of aesthetic chills we experience when moved by something beautiful. Although it has been around since at least 2007, it wasn’t until recently that researchers began studying it in earnest. Over the past two years, over 100 scientific papers have been published on the phenomenon, and some scientists believe there could be some therapeutic benefits from ASMR.
If you are interested in trying your hand at creating ASMR videos, read our article about how-to-make-asmr-videos . With the right information and some practice, you can become a successful YouTuber with a channel of your own.
Finding ASMR content creators for inspiration
It might come as a surprise that many ASMR artists are women. Many have found success by starting their own YouTube channels, where they share tips for relaxation and sleep. These videos may involve whispering about anything from makeup to how to make oatmeal.
ASMR artists come from all walks of life—many were already in other professions before creating and sharing ASMR content. Some work full-time as life coaches or counselors; others are stay-at-home moms who want something creative to do with their time outside of raising children; and some have been very successful in careers like graphic design or digital marketing before deciding to branch out into this strange new world of whispering softly into microphones for strangers online.
Wearing headphones, the ASMR artist creates a soundscape of crinkling paper or tapping on glass that has something in common with the sounds of nails gently clicking on a chalkboard for some people. But for others, it’s simply a relaxing sensation that can help them fall asleep at night or reduce their stress levels during the day.
Join in on the fun!
ASMR videos can help you relax, unwind, and feel at peace. If you’re dealing with anxiety or insomnia or want to improve your quality of life, give it a go. If the idea sounds appealing but seems too weird, we encourage you to try it anyway. Experiencing something new and leading people to share that experience with you can be quite fulfilling!
Interested in learning more? Gank has got you covered! We have more articles on ASMR for you to read and once you’re ready, we’re excited to have you on our platform to begin your content creator!
