ASMR has taken the digital world by storm. Characterized by a tingling sensation that starts from the scalp and moves down the spine, ASMR is akin to a brain massage, offering feelings of relaxation and tranquility to those who experience it.
Some liken it to the chills felt while listening to an awe-inspiring piece of music or the gentle touch of a feather on the skin. However, not everyone can readily tap into this sensory experience.
Whether you’re new to the world of ASMR or a long-time fan seeking to heighten your sensations, this post will look into various techniques on how to get ASMR tingles.
10 Simple Techniques That Will Give You ASMR Tingles
1. Find your triggers
ASMR is a highly individualized experience, with different triggers eliciting the sought-after tingling sensation in different people. Common triggers include:
i. Soft speaking
The mellifluous tone of someone speaking softly can be deeply soothing. For some, it is the nuanced inflections and gentle cadence in the speaker’s voice that triggers ASMR.
ii. Gentle sounds
Sounds like crinkling paper, tapping on a wooden surface, or the rustling of leaves can be oddly satisfying. Such ambient noises, when focused upon, can induce ASMR in many.
iii. Personal attention
Ever felt a shiver down your spine when someone played with your hair or gave you a gentle massage? Personal attention scenarios, like hair brushing or spa treatments, can evoke ASMR, as they create a sense of being cared for.
iv. Role-playing
ASMR role-playing videos create scenarios where the viewer feels like they’re receiving direct, personal attention. This could be in the form of a mock doctor’s visit, a salon session, or any other imaginative setting.
v. Visual triggers
Sometimes, it’s not about sound. Watching someone methodically fold clothes or craft an artwork with precision can stimulate ASMR.
vi. Tactile triggers
Gentle touch, strokes, or vibrations on the skin can sometimes send waves of relaxation and tingles for those receptive to tactile ASMR.
2. Experiment with different types of ASMR content
The internet is brimming with a plethora of ASMR content in various formats. Videos are common, where creators, often called ASMRtists, craft scenarios to trigger ASMR. However, there are audio recordings for those who prefer to close their eyes and focus on the sound and even images that visually induce relaxation. You can pinpoint what resonates with you the most by exploring these various types.
3. Create your own ASMR triggers
The beauty of ASMR is that it is deeply personal. If popular triggers don’t work for you, consider creating content tailored to your preferences. Recording a favorite sound, taking pictures of a serene setting, or even narrating a calming story can help you discover your unique triggers.
4. Be patient
ASMR is not a guaranteed experience for everyone; even for those who can feel it, it might not happen every time. Patience is essential. It’s possible that you need to try different triggers, settings, or even times of the day before you find your ASMR sweet spot.
5. Relax and focus
For many, ASMR is as much about the mindset as it is about the triggers. Being in a calm environment and relaxed mind can enhance the experience. Finding a quiet, comfortable place where you can concentrate solely on the ASMR content, free from distractions is beneficial. Deep breaths, meditative techniques, or even dim lighting can also set the perfect ambiance for an ASMR session.
6. Listen to your body
Your body has an innate ability to communicate its needs, comfort, and discomfort. While ASMR is predominantly a relaxing experience for many, not every trigger or style will work with everyone. Some sounds or visuals might cause discomfort or even elicit negative emotions in certain individuals.
It’s important to remain attuned to how you feel. If a particular sound or scenario causes unease or anxiety, it’s a clear sign that it’s not the right fit for you. ASMR is about relaxation and pleasure, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. Always prioritize your well-being, and don’t pressurize yourself into liking a specific trigger because it’s popular or others find it calming.
7. Try listening to ASMR with headphones
Headphones can significantly amplify the ASMR experience. They block out external noises and allow you to immerse yourself fully in the auditory landscape of the ASMR content. The binaural recording, a popular technique in the ASMR community, is designed to mimic the way humans naturally hear and can create a three-dimensional auditory experience when listened to with headphones.
8. Find an ASMR artist that you like
ASMR artists, often referred to as ASMRtists, bring their unique style, voice, and personality to the content they create. While the triggers might remain somewhat consistent across creators, the presentation varies. Some may have a more calming voice, while others excel in creating intricate role-playing scenarios. The backdrop, video quality, and even the pace at which they conduct the triggers can all influence your ASMR experience.
9. Watch or listen to ASMR in a comfortable position
The physical environment plays a crucial role in enhancing the ASMR experience. Whether lounging on your favorite chair or snuggling up in bed, being comfortable can make a significant difference. When the body is relaxed, the mind is more receptive to the stimuli it receives.
10. Take breaks
Just like any other sensory experience, overexposure to ASMR can lead to desensitization. If you find that your favorite triggers are no longer eliciting the tingles they once did, or if you’re feeling frustrated trying to achieve the sensation, it might be time for a break. Give your senses some time to reset. This pause helps restore the ASMR sensations and ensures that you approach each session with a fresh mindset.
Why don't I feel tingles from ASMR?
Not everyone experiences the tingling sensation associated with ASMR, and this phenomenon is not entirely understood. Several factors might influence your response, including individual differences in brain chemistry, sensory perception, and even past experiences. It’s also possible that you haven’t yet found the specific trigger or ASMRtist that resonates with you. While many people find ASMR relaxing and tingling, everyone’s sensory and emotional responses vary, and what works for one person might not necessarily work for another.
Conclusion
Harnessing the tingling sensations of ASMR can be an entrancing journey into the depths of relaxation and calmness. Understanding your triggers, curating the right environment, and remaining patient can unlock an exquisite world of sensory delight.
Everyone’s ASMR experience is unique, and finding what resonates with you is essential. As you explore the myriad of techniques and tips provided, may you find your path to deeper relaxation and, ultimately, those electrifying ASMR tingles.
