If you’ve been on any social media platform for the last few years, you’ve most likely come across autonomous sensory meridian response videos aka ASMR videos. They’ve been showing up more and more on Instagram, TikTok, and as dedicated YouTube channels and shows. Big brands are also jumping on the bandwagon with special ads and campaigns, like IKEA with their 25-minute “Where Life Happens” commercial.
When you search ASMR and why so many people are hooked on it, there isn’t much research available. One peer-reviewed study from Swansea University in the U.K. came up with the theory that ASMR might be linked to synesthesia — a neurological condition in which something meant to stimulate one sense stimulates multiple senses at once.
Although there is little research on ASMR itself, the experience is psychedelic in that many people undergo a temporary altered state of consciousness induced, not by a substance or hallucinogen, but by absorbing sounds the brain processes in specific, pleasant ways.
Just how tripping on psilocybin or kambo can be deeply rewarding, everyday sounds can also produce satisfying states of being and feeling.
Not everyone benefits from ASMR in the same way, in fact, some might not feel anything at all and others may be completely put off by the concept entirely.
However, data shows YouTube searches for ASMR are growing exponentially. Interest in ASMR has more than tripled since 2016. Clearly, there’s a market for ASMR, which is why so many influencers and major brands are capitalizing on making soft sounds for the masses.
Dove Chocolate, KFC, Swedish Beer maker, Norrland Guld Ljus, are among several companies leveraging the sensorial experience of ASMR. And it doesn’t stop there. W magazine worked with Gal Gadot, Emily Ratajkowski, and Aubrey Plaza on a major campaign where each did ASMR videos.
More recently, music artists have begun implementing ASMR into their songs, music videos, and entire records. YouTuber Gibi, who has more than three million subscribers on her ASMR channel, was asked by Billie Eilish’s team to do a sensory cover of her album.
Since YouTube is a growing industry, with some users making six figures a year solely from ASMR content, we felt it was right to share a few with you.
!Trigger Warning: ASMR Content Ahead!
So, if you’re into it, we’ve gathered five videos worth watching this October. Let us know which ones you liked and if you think ASMR is psychedelic. We’d love to hear your thoughts and theories.
Gibi ASMR
Youtuber Gibi shows us her Halloween decor, from mugs to blankets, and while in full costume!
VisualSounds1 ASMR
Part one of a Halloween series, this YouTuber is in makeup and costume as she plays a character in her very own show.
We’re featuring this user again because this video is Halloween-themed but has its own concept. In it, the YouTuber acts as a Halloween shop owner who talks to someone visiting the shop. She leaves moments of silence for those who want to play along and talk back, creating a very interactive vibe.
Batala’s ASMR
A random video featuring Halloween content, like spooky stories, Halloween words and more. She also mixes in a lot of sounds in between thoughts that are “guaranteed” to cause brain tingles!
Bluewhisper
User Bluewhisper takes us on a visual and sensory-filled journey through her vintage Halloween shop.
ALB in Whisperland ASMR
Flip through a Halloween magazine for fun ideas on decorations, hosting and more.
Natasha Whispers ASMR
In this video, Natasha whispers through her “dramatic fall look” or Halloween makeup tutorial.
ASMR Weekly
This video has no host and is mainly created to be used as background noise. The background photo in the video never changes but is slightly animated here and there as sounds of the night creep in and out. Perfect to have on while hosting!
