What Does ASMR Stand For?
AMSR stands for "Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response,” and it’s something that’s really captured imaginations and taken the internet by storm. But, what is it? In this article we’ll check out the ASMR definition, delve into the world of ASMR videos, and show you some of the best ASMR video examples from YouTube.
What is an ASMR Video? ASMR Definition + Best 2024 YouTube Examples
Understanding ASMR: What is the ASMR Definition
Before we check out some ASMR videos, you need to know what is. We already know the definition of ASMR, and essentially, it’s a sensory phenomenon characterised by a tingling sensation that starts at the head and travels down the spine – it’s been described as ‘low-grade euphoria’! People who experience ASMR often say it’s a relaxing and pleasurable feeling, like a gentle tingling or shiver washes over them.
The triggers – auditory or visual - for ASMR can vary from person to person, but common ones include whispering, tapping, scratching, crinkling sounds, eating, and watching someone perform delicate, repetitive tasks. ASMR enthusiasts seek out triggers through ASMR videos to cause these pleasant sensations.
What are ASMR Videos?
Now we know what ASMR stands for and the ASMR definition, we can look at what exactly is ASMR video? Well, it’s a carefully crafted audio-visual experience designed to provoke ASMR sensations in viewers. These videos are created by video makers known as ASMRtists, who use a variety of triggers and techniques to stimulate ASMR in their audience. Here’s an overview of what ASMR videos typically feature, and some great YouTube examples of ASMR videos.
1. Whispering and Soft-Spoken Speech
One of the most common triggers in ASMR videos is the use of soft-spoken voices or whispering. ASMRtists speak gently and soothingly, often in a close-up, intimate way, which can trigger a tingling sensation in listeners. ASMR Glow is the channel featured above and has almost 2 million subscribers. She whispers, and in this video, includes a variety of different languages, flipping from side to side of a stereo mic so that you can hear the sound moving around from ear to ear.
2. Tapping and Crinkling Sounds
ASMR videos frequently include the sounds of tapping, scratching, or crinkling made by tapping on objects, scrunching paper, or running fingers over textured surfaces. These sounds are supposed to have a calming effect. In the featured video, WhistpersRed ASMR uses objects like a shower cap, an eye mask, and tissue paper.
3. Personal Attention Roleplays
Many ASMR videos feature role-play where the ASMRtist pretends to provide personal attention or care to the audience. This could be things like haircuts, massages, or medical examinations, all done in a soft and gentle way. Gentle Whispering ASMR – the channel you can see in the video featured above – does all sorts of ASMR, but in this video she goes through a variety of steps like brushing hair and playing with a diffuser to create a variety of sounds and visual stimuli.
4. Repetitive Movements
Repetitive actions, like brushing or combing hair, folding towels, or tracing patterns with fingers, can induce ASMR in some viewers. The predictability and rhythm of these movements are supposed to be relaxing and many people who enjoy ASMR like to view and listen to these to help them sleep or de-stress. Gibi ASMR featured in the video above has almost 5 million subscribers, and here can be seen acting out previous requests and suggestions for visual repetitive movements. An example of this is repeating the same sentence and words while making a related, repeated gesture with hands.
5. Binaural Recording
Binaural means listening to two tones with slightly different frequencies, which gives you a sort of 3D stereo sound. Some ASMRtists use binaural microphones, which capture those sounds and make viewers and listeners feel as though they’re in the room with the host, which is supposed to enhance the ASMR sensation. Nanou ASMR is our featured video above and combines touching and stroking the microphone with whispering.
6. Eating (also known as Mukbang)
Eating specific ASMR video is sort of its own genre and is often referred to as Mukbang. Mukbang originated in South Korea and involves people eating large quantities of food while interacting with their audience. Over time, it’s evolved into a specific niche within ASMR, attracting viewers who enjoy the sensory experience of hearing and sometimes even seeing someone eat. Popular examples are the crispy texture of fried chicken, the sound of noodles being slurped, or the rustle of unwrapping sweets. Sounds of crunching, chewing, slurping, and sipping are all things people have found to be pleasant, though personally I can’t think of much worse!
How Does ASMR Work?
Only some people experience ASMR and it’s not entirely clear why that is… yet. Studies have been and are being, done, but current research certainly shows that there’s something going on in the brain when stimuli like we’ve mentioned, is provided.
ASMR is believed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, and that may be down to the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and pain relief. Additionally, the brain's reward centre may be stimulated during ASMR experiences, helping with those pleasurable sensations. It’s all a little complicated, but hey a huge amount of people enjoy and are benefitting from ASMR, and that’s the main thing.
Why Do People Watch ASMR Videos?
We’ve touched on this already but really it’s down to ASMR being effective for stress relief and reducing anxiety. When you think about how fast-paced life can be, particularly with our constant connections online, then it makes sense that people increasingly looking for ways to de-stress and find an escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s a sort of digital self-care, and as most people have a mobile device and the internet, it’s an easy and free thing for many people to access.
For some, ASMR also brings a sense of connection. The soothing and intimate nature of ASMR videos can create a feeling of closeness between the viewer and the ASMRtist, which can help with loneliness and isolation. It’s also apparently useful as an aid to help you sleep!
ASMR is quite versatile. With a range of triggers and role-plays available, there's something for everyone, whether it's the gentle whispering of a favourite ASMRtist, the satisfying sounds of tapping, or the tingles induced by personal attention roleplays, ASMR caters to all sorts of preferences.
How to Experience or Create ASMR: Tutorial Steps and Tips
If you're new to the world of ASMR or haven't yet experienced the tingling sensations it offers, or maybe you want to create your own ASMR videos, then here are some tips on each to help you get started:
How to Experience ASMR
1. Find the Right Triggers
Discovering ASMR triggers is trial and error, but you can start with exploring different types of ASMR videos and figure out what triggers the tingling sensation for you. Common ones include whispering, tapping, and personal attention role plays.
2. Use Quality Headphones
To get the most out of ASMR you need to immerse yourself in it, so invest in a good pair of headphones. Many ASMRtists use binaural recording techniques, so you’ll need headphones that can reproduce spatial audio accurately.
3. Create a Relaxing Environment
Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed while watching ASMR videos. Dim the lights, get cosy, and focus your attention on the video.
4. Stay Open-Minded
ASMR videos come in various styles and themes. Don't be afraid to explore different genres and ASMRtists until you find something you like. What works as a trigger for one person might not work for another.
5. Practice Relaxation Techniques
ASMR can be great for relaxation and stress relief. Combine ASMR videos with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation for an even more soothing experience.
What are ASMR Videos? How to Make Your Own ASMR Video
1. Equipment and Setup
High-quality audio is crucial for ASMR videos so make sure you have a good microphone, preferably a binaural one that captures sound in 3D. Popular options include the Blue from Yeti, Rode NT1, or 3Dio Free Space Pro II.
While audio quality is essential, it’s wise to enhance the visual aspect of your videos where you can so a decent DSLR camera or even a good smartphone with a high-resolution camera should help you do that. Add a tripod to make sure your footage is stable. Shaky visuals aren’t very relaxing!
Remember to use soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows and keep your background clutter free with gentle colours or scenery.
2. ASMR Triggers and Themes
Experiment with tapping, scratching, whispering, personal attention role-plays, or any other sounds or actions that trigger your own ASMR. Plan out what you want to do by creating a theme or scenario.
3. Recording Your ASMR Video
Put your microphone close to your mouth or the source of the sounds you're creating and experiment with positions to achieve the best audio quality. With your camera, choose angles that offer a clear view of your actions and trigger objects and make sure that your hands and face (if they’re on camera) are well-lit and in focus.
- Speak Softly. If your video includes narration or instructions, speak gently and slowly, keeping in mind that ASMR is about creating a soothing atmosphere.
- Minimise background noise, or better still, eliminate it! Record in a quiet environment or use noise reduction software during editing to keep the sound as clean as possible.
4. Consistency and Patience
Building an audience and gaining recognition as an ASMRtist takes time, just as it does with anything. Be consistent in your content creation and keep working on your techniques, looking to successful producers for inspiration.
5. Respect ASMR Guidelines and Ethics
It’s important to always stick to ethical guidelines and respect viewers' boundaries. ASMR can be quite a personal and intimate experience and there’s no quicker way to annoy an established audience than to cross those lines.
Envato Elements
If you’d love to make videos, check out Envato Elements where you can find all sorts of useful bits and pieces for one monthly subscription, including music, stock video, and even ASMR related content, like this great illustration of Mukbang.
ASMR Video 3D Character Illustration
And if you love free video templates, then there are usually some up for grabs, along with other great resources, every month.
Check out Envato Elements free files.
Conclusion
ASMR videos have evolved into a rich and diverse genre of online content, offering people a unique and pleasurable sensory experience – and maybe even cutting some stress too! With the help of talented ASMRtists on platforms like YouTube, you can explore a wide range of triggers to find what resonates with you. If you're looking for relaxation, stress relief, or that sought-after tingling sensation down your spine, ASMR videos might just be for you. Grab your headphones, find a quiet spot, and start listening!
About This Page
This page was written by Marie Gardiner. Marie is a writer, author, and photographer. It was edited by Gonzalo Angulo. Gonzalo is an editor, writer and illustrator.
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