Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a subjective sensory-emotional phenomenon characterised by a tingling sensation, often beginning at the scalp and radiating along the neck or spine, typically accompanied by feelings of relaxation and calm.
This experience is elicited by specific stimuli, which are commonly auditory or visual in nature. Examples of such stimuli include whispering, certain sounds, or attentive, repetitive actions.
Despite the growing interest in ASMR and the increasing number of scientific studies on the subject, the phenomenon remains only very partially understood. The occurrence of the phenomenon is not universal, and individual susceptibility varies.
Note on the video: Many of the findings mentioned in the video are the subject of active research.
Further Reading
- A good start: Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASMR
- One of the earliest papers on ASMR [Open-Access]: https://peerj.com/articles/851/
- A scientific review paper on ASMR [Paywall]: https://doi.org/10.1037/cns0000368