ASMR = Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. Peek at this: What is ASMR?
From what I understand thus far, it is a pleasurable, calming, tingly feeling you get in your scalp/head/etc. when you listen to certain quiet soothing sounds (or from close personal touching). Some examples are soft whispering, package crinkling, stirring sand, and gentle tinkling of glass. My first reaction to learning about it was a sense of bafflement, but as I watched a few videos on it, it made perfect sense.
I have a Tazo jar filled with acrylic seashells and water that I like to tip up and down to listen to the delicate chiming sounds it makes. I love quiet wind chimes, the sound of rain, the sound of an object sliding smoothly across a flat surface, my sweetheart speaking softly in my ear, and being gently petted (cats have it made!).
Something odd that I really enjoy is watching videos of people completing adorable candy kits from Japan (or other Asian countries, of course). My favorite ones have no talking and show lots of steps to create very detailed candy creations that usually look like mini versions of real foods. I could watch videos of this all day. (I don't, but I could!) As I searched for more information about ASMR, I saw that some people recommended these very same videos. (Ah! I get it!) ^o^ The following video has slower, exaggerated motions to emphasize the sounds made by the packaging and stirring.
What do you think? Did you enjoy watching it or did it bore you or irritate you? If you liked it, you might find that ASMR videos can help you feel calmer when you are feeling anxious. I am happy to have learned of this soothing phenomenon (and am curious about the tingly feeling that can be achieved) and will continue to research more about ASMR.
Do you have certain sounds or sensations that calm you? Leave a comment to share your suggestions! ^_^
