Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR): a flow-like mental state.
Emma L Barratt, Nick J Davis
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Depression Meditation |
| Keywords | Asmr Chronic pain Flow state Misophonia Synaesthesia Synesthesia |
| Key points | The authors identify common ASMR triggers (whispering, personal attention, crisp sounds, slow movements) and report that respondents experienced relaxation and well-being plus temporary improvements in depression and chronic pain. They suggest a possible link between ASMR and synaesthesia, noting a 5.9% synaesthesia prevalence in the sample, and propose that flow may be necessary to achieve ASMR because more effective triggers were associated with heightened flow state. |
Abstract
Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a previously unstudied sensory phenomenon, in which individuals experience a tingling, static-like sensation across the scalp, back of the neck and at times further areas in response to specific triggering audio and visual stimuli. This sensation is widely reported to be accompanied by feelings of relaxation and well-being. The current study identifies several common triggers used to achieve ASMR, including whispering, personal attention, crisp sounds and slow movements. Data obtained also illustrates temporary improvements in symptoms of depression and chronic pain in those who engage in ASMR. A high prevalence of synaesthesia (5.9%) within the sample suggests a possible link between ASMR and synaesthesia, similar to that of misophonia. Links between number of effective triggers and heightened flow state suggest that flow may be necessary to achieve sensations associated with ASMR.
Citations in the library
Cited by 7
- Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) and the Functions of Consciousness. Cognitive Science May 1, 2024
- Unusual experiences and their association with metacognition: investigating ASMR and Tulpamancy Cognitive Neuropsychiatry November 8, 2021
- Research Priorities for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response: An Interdisciplinary Delphi Study. Multisensory Research November 28, 2024
- Differences in brain functional connectivity between autonomous sensory meridian response and classical music. Frontiers in Neuroscience 2026
- Body scan meditation enhances the autonomous sensory meridian response to auditory stimuli. Perception June 1, 2022
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