Siddhant Chaturvedi tries ‘rainy day ASMR’; why certain sounds feel so good

Bollywood actor Siddhant Chaturvedi recently ventured into the world of ASMR content, sharing a video on his Instagram that featured him tapping surfaces, popping items, and whispering to evoke a calming sensory experience for viewers. The caption of his post read "rainy day ASMR 🌧️🫰," reflecting the monsoon-themed playlist of sounds he created.

ASMR, or Automatic Sensory Meridian Response, refers to a tingling, soothing sensation on the scalp, neck, and back triggered by various stimuli, including auditory, visual, physical, and tactile elements. Common ASMR triggers encompass makeup destruction, shredding paper, playing with kinetic sand, and grating cheese. Sonal Chadha, a clinical psychologist, explained that ASMR activates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for rest and relaxation, leading to reduced heart rate, ease, and feelings of comfort.

Nishtha Khurana, a counseling psychologist, noted that ASMR has gained popularity due to its sense of community, allowing creators and viewers to share experiences and discuss their favorite triggers on platforms like YouTube and social media. This inclusivity helps individuals who might otherwise feel isolated in their ASMR experiences.

However, the impact of ASMR varies among people, and its effects on emotional processing are highly subjective. Some individuals associate specific sounds with positive feelings, enhancing their ASMR experience, while others may find certain sounds uncomfortable or neutral.

While many people use ASMR to alleviate stress, improve sleep, and enhance relaxation, Khurana cautioned against overexposure, which may reduce the effectiveness of triggers for some individuals. Moreover, ASMR should not be considered a medical treatment for sleep or mood issues; consulting a healthcare professional is advised for such concerns.