What is ASMR

An autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is a tingling sensation that usually begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. 

ASMR focuses on your senses and is intended to trigger ASMR "tingles," sleep, and relaxation. ASMR is not sexual. It is intended solely for relaxation and therapeutic purposes. 

People have probably experienced ASMR tingles at some point in their lives without knowing what they were. The best way to describe it is like this: when you’re having your hair washed at the hairdresser, and you feel extremely relaxed, you may sometimes experience a tingly, buzzing sensation in your scalp and neck. That’s ASMR.

ASMR became a global phenomenon on YouTube over 10 years ago when content creators started exploring ASMR through video. Millions of people around the world now tune into ASMR YouTube channels daily to help them sleep, focus, and relax. Over time, ASMR has expanded beyond YouTube, reaching other platforms such as TikTok, and is gradually becoming more mainstream. Some salons even offer ASMR-inspired spa treatments.

YouTube ASMR channels typically feature ASMR role-plays and/or ASMR trigger videos, which are often filmed on camera. However, real-person ASMR videos have become increasingly popular in recent years. The ASMR genre includes many different styles, such as fast ASMR, and each ASMRtist brings their own unique approach, giving viewers a variety of experiences to enjoy.

When any of our senses are stimulated, they can trigger the ASMR sensation or help induce feelings of sleepiness and relaxation. This is one of the reasons ASMR is particularly popular among individuals with Autism, ADHD, insomnia, and mental health challenges.

ASMR can be triggered in various ways, but not everyone experiences it, and that’s completely normal—everyone is unique. Some individuals may prefer visual triggers, auditory triggers, in-person triggers, or a combination of these. Additionally, people have their own preferences when it comes to specific triggers. For example, while some may enjoy ASMR face brushing, others may find ASMR light triggers more relaxing. There is no universal approach to ASMR; it is a deeply personal experience, and its diversity is what makes it so intriguing and enjoyable for each individual.

Many people have likely watched "satisfying" videos—the kind that are hard to look away from, even if the reason is unclear. Examples include soap cutting, slime, pimple popping, items being crushed, eating, and more. These types of videos are also considered forms of ASMR.

For those who have never experienced ASMR, it may simply be a matter of not having found the right trigger yet, or perhaps they don't experience it at all. However, this doesn’t mean ASMR can't still be enjoyable. Many people engage with ASMR content to relax, sleep, focus, or escape from reality, as many ASMR videos are like mini movies. Regardless of the reason, the key is to embrace the experience it provides.

Having faced mental health challenges herself, Nicola understands the importance of providing a support network and helping others however she can. She has always had a passion for helping people but struggled to find the right avenue until discovering ASMR.

ASMR played a pivotal role in helping Nicola through difficult times, offering relief with sleep, focus, relaxation, and a sense of belonging within a supportive community. Motivated by the desire to give back, she embarked on her own ASMR journey in January 2019. After all she had been through, ASMR gave her a sense of purpose, self-worth, and the motivation to keep moving forward. It provided comfort during further dark times and helped her find a community of like-minded individuals. ASMR truly changed her life, and she is eternally grateful to everyone who believed in her, supported her, and helped her get to where she is today. Through this journey, Nicola has made lifelong friends.

After six years of creating high-quality ASMR content on *Be Brave Be You ASMR* and *Be Hasty ASMR*, Nicola decided to take her passion a step further. She wanted to bring ASMR to her local community, offering her viewers the opportunity to visit her, experience ASMR firsthand, and even be featured on her channel. Recognizing a gap in the market, and combining her skills as a beauty and holistic therapist, Nicola saw this as a perfect opportunity to further help others and increase recognition for ASMR.

ASMR is not sexual. It is intended solely for relaxation and therapeutic purposes. 

Over the years, Nicola has learned a great deal and it has taken her time to fully accept and appreciate who she is. She has come to understand that it’s okay to be different, to face challenges, to have experienced trauma, and to not always be okay. It’s also okay to ask for help when needed. 

*Be Brave Be You* embodies this message — encouraging others to be brave and embrace their true selves. It’s about accepting who you are, owning your struggles, mistakes, and imperfections, and being proud of your journey. Nicola believes it’s important to celebrate where you’ve come from, what you’ve overcome, and the person you’ve become. Never forget who you are, and never be afraid to be your authentic self.