ASMR stands for autonomous sensory meridian response.
Autonomous: controlled by the nervous system.
Sensory: nerve impulses from sense organs.
Meridian: pathways along which the body's vital energy flows.
Response: reaction.
As a science & evidence based massage therapist I do not believe in meridians and feel that the word "meridian" is unnecessary and inappropriate to define asmr. It could be more appropriately called ASCR- Autononomous Somatosensory Cortex Response. The function of the Primary Somatosensory Cortex is to detect sensory information from the body regarding temperature, proprioception, touch, texture, and pain. The primary somatosensory cortex receives neuronal projections from the thalamus. It receives sensory information from the contralateral side of the body. For simplicity's sake and "going with the flow" I will continue to use the well known acronym "ASMR." The use of the term "meridian" implies belief in a religion therefore making it inaccessible for many. When you take the biology of the brain into consideration, it effectively applies to all people.
ASMR is a somatosensory phenomenon, in which individuals experience a tingling, static-like sensation across the scalp, back of the neck and at times further areas like hands, arms, and feet. Most often an individual will feel the "tingle" begin at the top of the back/base of the neck and move up the back of the scalp.
Data from a 2015 study shows temporary improvements in symptoms of depression and chronic pain in those who engage in ASMR.
ASMR is not for everyone. It can also have a completely opposite effect! If you have a condition called misophonia, you might not enjoy audio asmr, but could benefit greatly from personal attention, similar to the sessions I offer or videos on youtube where they do pretend play with lights and hand movements directed at the camera.
What does an ASMR session at Mod Massage entail?
This is a non-massage asmr service. It includes pretent play in areas of makeup, hair brushing, personal attention, drawing on the back, and gentle fingertip movements across the skin without applying pressure. I do not play any specific music or sounds but I have been considering adding affirmations or guided meditations because people like them so much. Typical spa/massage music will be playing, but you are also welcome to bring in airpods to listen to your own favorite asmr sounds during the session. I use a variety of tools and let the client pick and choose what I use. *If you want hairbrushing, you need to provide your own hair brush. Preferrably something with very wide teeth, or wooden bristles.* All items used are sanitized for reuse, or discarded.
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