On nights when it seems like the universe has agreed not to let you sleep, the only solution at hand is to scour the internet for some helpful advice or something soothing to help you fall asleep. It is very likely that you will come across ASMR videos.
What is ASMR and how does it work?
ASMR is the acronym for a phenomenon known as “Autonomous Meridian Sensory Response”. The ASMR that we know best are the videos of relaxing sounds and images that try to relax, calm anxiety and help falling asleep to the people who see them.
Those who experience the sensations of ASMR describe it as a kind of tingling or tickling that begins on the scalp and extends through the neck and spine to even reach the extremities. This phenomenon has to do with a peculiarity in our nervous system and it occurs especially in people who are sensitive to sensory stimuli. Due to its novelty and the scarcity of resources dedicated to its study, ASMR remains something unknown that generates more questions than answers to science.
This nervous system response is triggered by both visual and auditory stimuli that trigger physical and mental sensations in the person who experiences it. It is true that it is a very personal experience: each one lives it in a very particular way.
There are countless videos with different materials that cause ASMR: contact with rough surfaces, writing with pencil on paper, the sound of scissors cutting hair, videos of people whispering (these are the favourites on the Internet)… the only thing that connects all of them is their ability to produce relaxing sensations.
Does it work for sleeping?
Millions of people choose ASMR as their favorite tool to fall asleep, so it has been shown to work for those who are able to feel this experience.
What is the best way to do this?
- Although it is something very personal that each one lives in their own way, the predisposition to feel is very necessary, since if you start with skepticism, it is less likely to happen.
- It is recommended to listen to the videos with wireless or lightweight headphones, to be able to fall asleep comfortably.
- At bedtime, it is better to use only sounds, since images and colours can hinder falling asleep.
- Opt for the minimum brightness on screens to avoid flashes of light that make it difficult to rest and for a low volume that will not wake you up.