“We are all now connected by the internet, like neurons in the giant brain.”
This Stephen Hawking’s statement opens doors to several possibilities of connectivity through different mediums. If he had been born and said it during the Viking’s time, people have made him a Seer for making such an accurate affirmation. Because different trends come into the world of the internet, and people go crazy for them, like the ASMR, which not only connects people through entertainment but even has an impact on the human body.
ASMR videos have become quite a trend over the past years, hitting many brains and souls by providing a calming effect. While some people still think that ASMR content is only a new branch of entertainment, others believe that such videos offer tranquility and a sense of relaxation. So, what really is ASMR? What does ASMR stand for in videos? Today, you will learn its meaning, working, types, and all other important information.
Table of Contents
What Does ASMR Stand for in Videos?
ASMR stands for “Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response.” ASMR is the short form that defines a static-like goosebumps or tingling sensation in response to particular visual stimuli or audio. These sensations are spread all over the body, starting from the skull and down to the spine and limbs. Some people even reported that they feel pleasant due to ASMR sensations, which allow them to sleep peacefully and stay calm during the day.
What is Really Going Behind the ASMR in Videos?
Not everyone feels the same tingling sensations when they watch ASMR content, so the effect varies from person to person. Also, there is no scientific evidence of ASMR. Therefore, all the understanding about this trend is based on people’s experiences on the internet.
However, according to some qualitative studies, ASMR videos have a different level of vocals, lighting, and/or music that triggers neurons. As a result, viewers feel amazed, relaxed, and even intimidated by it. To prove it, Peer J published a study in 2015 that unveiled that ASMR can enhance mood and improve pain symptoms with the help of common triggers, such as crisp sounds, slow movements, personal attention, and whispering. But again, this study is also based on user experience rather than rational facts.
If you dig deep, you will find the people who watch such content get ASMR feelings from different triggers. Some savor mundane activities, like stirring a bowl full of soup, while others savor role-plays where ASMRtists whisper and pay personal attention.
The feelings that develop by watching ASMR aren’t sensual. Although some viewers are erotically triggered by the way ASMRtists perform and the type of clothing they wear, the ASMR experience only provides relaxation. It has nothing to do with intimacy or similar feelings.
9 Popular Types of ASMR in Videos
Here are some common ASMR video types that are popular over the internet.
1. Scratching
This is a controversial category of ASMR trigger. Although famous, some people may perceive it in the wrong way. In this type of ASMR video, the performer scratches plastic, metal, or any other objects directly in front of the microphone. This gives a calming and tingling sensation, and many people even get excited by watching scratching videos.
2. Whispering
Whispering is one of the most watched ASMR triggers. In these ASMR videos, the ASMRtist whispers gently, which results in relaxation and calmness.
3. Blowing
Blowing sound has effects similar to whispering. It resembles a gentle and soft wind, and people say it helps them sleep well at night.
4. Tapping
Tapping is also like scratching. However, it involves nail ASMRtists nails to tap different surfaces, such as wood and glass.
5. Chewing
Chewing ASMR videos have both hate and love equally. This category also includes a subcategory called the “Mukbang,” where artists film themselves while eating food in large quantities. However, the main focus of this ASMR video type is the sounds produced from the mouth, whether gulpy and soft or crispy and loud.
6. Page Turning
Page turning has been one of the most popular triggers, according to research made in 2015. It involves light, crinkling sounds that books, magazines, and newspapers make. These soft noises provide soothing symptoms to overcome anxiety and offer calmness.
7. Hair Play
The idea of hair play is taken from the real life. Think of times when you played with your hair or allowed someone else to do it; you would have definitely felt soothing. Hair play ASMR makes sense that listening and watching it can kindle a similar response.
8. Ear Brushing
One of the ASMR video types is also ear brushing. These videos are made using makeup brushes. The sounds are extremely calming, whether a big Kabuki design or a tiny eyeshadow brush.
9. Massage
Watching a person massaging another person results in ASMR tingles – whether it’s an oil back or head massage.
Best Platforms to Watch ASMR Videos
Some of the famous platforms to watch or upload ASMR video content are:
a. YouTube
YouTube is one of the biggest platforms for ASMR videos, with numerous ASMRtists specializing in different ASMR styles and triggers.
b. TikTok
Only a few people know what is ASMR on TikTok. However, this platform has a stable ASMR community with many interesting videos in different categories, especially massage and tapping ASMR.
c. Instagram
While Instagram is used for photo sharing, it also has a number of ASMR performers who share their content regularly.
d. Twitch
If you want to watch live ASMR videos, you can visit Twitch for real-time ASMR content.
Conclusion
What does ASMR stand for in videos? This is a common question asked by many people who don’t know what goes behind the ASMR. You may have noticed some ASMR videos online if you’re into social media. Many of these videos produce ASMR-provoking sounds that provide relaxation and satisfaction to viewers. There are different types of ASMR videos, such as scratching, whispering, mukbang, and more. You can watch these videos on various platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, and even Instagram.
FAQs
Q1. What is the point of ASMR videos?
ASMR videos have simulatory content that helps people to relax and fall asleep.
Q2. Is it OK to watch ASMR?
It is fine to watch ASMR videos. However, if these videos begin to interfere with your daily routine or they have made you dependent, it is wise to see a therapist or qualified physician.
Q3. Are ASMR videos healthy?
Many people report that by watching ASMR videos, they feel calm and have an improvement in mood swings.
Q4. Who invented ASMR?
Jennifer Allen coined the term and concept of ASMR videos in 2010.
