What is ASMR?

Why is ASMR still so popular?

If you’re a content creator, then you are probably familiar with the growing popularity of ASMR. Millions of people have latched on to this trend—watching YouTube and TikTok videos of someone whispering into a camera. It sounds pretty simple, right? Yet people are completely mesmerized by this phenomenon because of the sensation and stimulation these videos provide.

The reason ASMR has become an increasingly popular video format is that the experience can provide great relaxation and stress relief. In fact, studies showed that people who experienced ASMR had reduced heart rates while watching the videos. It has also been suggested that ASMR could help relieve chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

How is ASMR explored in video creation?

Many creators enjoy making ASMR videos because it’s a new and fresh creative outlet. It keeps things interesting as video makers can play around with different sounds to maximize relaxation. They do this by speaking with a calm voice and making tapping sounds into an ASMR microphone.

Interestingly, ASMR videos are not all made intentionally. As an avid TikTok creator and user, I’ve come across several videos that were not labeled as ASMR or intentionally created that way. Sometimes video makers use high-quality microphones and speak softly, and their content comes across as ASMR accidentally.

There is definitely an art to ASMR, because in my experience, I have found some videos soothing, and others distracting. If created well, I can attest to experiencing a very unique sensory experience—providing what I refer to as “warm fuzzies.”

Read more on how to effectively include ASMR in your videos.

Stock footage inspiration. Visual ASMR. 3D, CGI, Seamless, Satisfying. You can also find ASMR sound effects suggestions that go perfectly with this image.

What is ASMR?

If you’re not familiar with the ASMR meaning, then let’s get back to the basics. This popular acronym stands for autonomous sensory meridian response. Simply put, ASMR refers to the term for the sensation people feel while watching stimulating videos. Many people describe the feeling as “tingles” that run down your head and spine. It can be a very relaxing and soothing experience. “Sleep ASMR” videos are also very popular because they can help make people fall asleep!

How do you know if you are “sensitive” to ASMR?

ASMR is definitely not for everyone and everyone experiences it differently. People are triggered by different things, and for some, ASMR even provides a sexual turn-on. But, no two human brains are alike, so the experience can greatly vary from person to person.

In the next section, we’ll highlight some of the triggers that can evoke a sensory response.

What triggers ASMR?

People get the feeling of ASMR from a variety of triggers. For most, the experience seems to be in response to situations that involve the senses—sight, touch, or sound. The intensity varies from person to person.

The following are some examples of ASMR triggers:

• Talking softly or whispering (on or off of an ASMR microphone)
• Moving slowly
• Tapping on an object or typing on a computer
• Being in a close personal space with someone or gaining eye contact
• Massaging, hair brushing, and even getting haircuts
• Humming or chewing on foods
• Seeing different light patterns
• Turning a page slowly or folding paper
• Scratching or squishing sounds
• Applying face makeup

Intentional vs Unintentional ASMR

ASMR sounds can actually be both intentional and unintentional. Whether purposefully created or not, these sounds can make your “brain tingle.”

Intentional ASMR

Intentional ASMR is created for the purpose of relaxation and enjoyment. These sounds might include hair brushing or massaging and are accomplished through repetitive and coordinated sounds or movement.

Unintentional ASMR

This one refers to sounds or actions that are made unconsciously. This could include a number of daily tasks such as folding laundry, cooking, eating, typing on the computer, and brushing your teeth. Even unintentional ASMR can be relaxing just by its nature.

Pro tip: If you’re seeking a specific type of ASMR, simply type it in the search bar on YouTube or TikTok. Some of the most popular ASMR types include Sleep ASMR, Eating ASMR, Food ASMR, and Visual ASMR.

 

Cutting, Knife, Green Pepper, Vegetable, part of the Guacamole story by Gabriel Bucaturu, spiced up with vegetable cutting SFX

Why you should add ASMR sounds to your videos

As a creator, adding ASMR sounds like ASMR foley sound effects to your videos can greatly enhance the overall experience for the viewer. When you combine auditory and visual effects in a video, your audience feels like they are “one” with the content. When your senses are activated, the video feels more realistic, almost like you are in the same room as the creator.

How to create/edit ASMR videos and enhance ASMR sound effects

Creating an ASMR video is not as difficult as you may think. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Decide what you want to film – Consider starting with popular triggers such as whispering, eating, and fingernail tapping (that one typically performs quite well!)
2. Prep the room – Make sure your room is soundproof and an interior room is best (for more, refer to the next section where we discuss essential equipment)
3. Practice sounds/speaking – Test your microphone and practice speaking on different sides and then listen back to your voice to make sure there aren’t any pops or cracks
4. Record your video – Speak in a low voice and pay attention to how you look and sound
5. Edit your video – Upload your footage into a video editor, then trim, adjust sound, and add any other components such as a voiceover, music, or royalty-free sound effects

Did you know that you can use Artlist’s catalog of sound effects and music to improve and enhance ASMR? Here are a few examples of what you can find in SFX packs that Artlist provides for ASMR videos:

 

 

Tingle away to the sound of Artlist’s complete ASMR sounds collection.

Essential equipment to capture ASMR sounds

To most effectively capture ASMR sounds in your videos, you’ll want to invest in the following essential equipment:

• A quiet room – This is probably the most important thing you need. It’s crucial that you can record your videos in a room with no background noise—so your audience can hear all of the video details and be fully immersed in the experience
• A microphone – Before you begin, you’ll need to invest in a high-quality microphone, but it doesn’t need to be very expensive. In fact, a standard USB microphone will suffice. The Blue Microphones Snowball comes highly recommended and retails for just $50 USD
• Headphones – This is also an important component and you’ll want something that delivers high-quality sound but isn’t too bulky. Noise-canceling headphones are a great option because they block out external noise so you can better focus
• A laptop or computer – Again, this doesn’t have to be expensive, but just needs to have a strong enough processor and enough RAM (memory) to run programs
• Software – There are many options to choose from, and I’ve personally used Audacity software for voice recording in the past and have been very happy with it
• Camera or phone – You’ll also need something to film with and a phone will work fine. Personally, I use my iPhone to create TikTok videos with ease
• Lighting – Having good lighting is also very important when creating videos. Natural light is an option, along with studio light, and even ring lights (my personal favorite)
• Editing software – There are many free and inexpensive options out there, one being Adobe Premiere Pro

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can expect to see continued growth in ASMR, as individuals and creators alike are experiencing positive benefits. ASMR is certainly unique, and may not be appreciated by all, but it has proven to be therapeutic for many—while easing the symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and more.

If you haven’t watched an ASMR video, give it a whirl and see what you think. You never know, you may find yourself immersed in calming relaxation!