Is it wrong for a Christian to view or listen to Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) triggers?

Answer

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, known as ASMR, was termed in the early 2010s. It refers to the physical sensation of “static” or tingling on the skin, typically starting on the scalp and moving down the spine to other body parts. ASMR is subjectively described as a “low-grade euphoria,” leading to both physical and emotional pleasure. These sensations are triggered by stimuli known as ASMR “triggers.”

ASMR triggers often involve specific, non-threatening acoustic or visual stimuli, or a combination of both. These triggers can be internally generated (imagined) or externally induced (tactile, visual, or auditory stimuli). Typically, the stimuli are repetitive, methodical, gentle, and maintained at a low volume. Examples of triggers include soft whispering, mouth sounds, slow hand movements, crinkling paper, or quiet sounds from everyday activities like turning pages, clipping nails, or writing with a pencil. Audiovisual “role play” where a person performs a task is also a common way to trigger ASMR.

ASMR triggers in audio, visual, and audiovisual formats are widely available on the internet, with an entire Subreddit dedicated to ASMR links. Numerous YouTube channels focus solely on creating content to induce ASMR. “ASMRtists” perform simulated ASMR role plays directly to the camera, providing viewers with gentle “personal attention” like a haircut, medical examination, or spa treatment. Some ASMR video creators use binaural recording techniques to create a three-dimensional audio environment, giving the sensation of being close to the speaker. This immersive experience aims to trigger an ASMR response through simulated attentiveness.

The ASMR community asserts that Autonomous Sensory Meridian Responses are primarily non-sexual and are instead described as calming, relaxing, or meditative.The purpose of ASMR is primarily for relaxation and stress reduction. Due to the positive and euphoric effects of ASMR, some individuals may even seek triggers to alleviate insomnia, anxiety, panic disorders, and depression.

Limited scientific research has been conducted on the efficacy or potential harm of ASMR. This is because studying such a subjective phenomenon and providing empirical evidence is extremely challenging. Not everyone can experience ASMR, and even those who can may have varying responses to different stimuli.

Utilizing ASMR for relaxation, peaceful meditation, or improved mental well-being is not inappropriate. Finding pleasure in a beautiful sight or sound is not sinful. ASMR is not illegal, and it is neither inherently good nor bad, although it does have specific mental and physical effects. Nevertheless, ASMR can be easily misused.

While the general ASMR community promotes a non-sexual, non-pornographic objective, there is a significant subculture that uses ASMR to evoke sensations of sexual gratification. Phrases like “brain orgasm” or AIHO (Attention-Induced Head Orgasm) and AIE (Attention-Induced Euphoria) are used in ASMR terminology to describe the experience. Christians should be cautious about how they spend their time (“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31), maintain sobriety (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:4-8), and avoid indulging in pleasure for pleasure’s sake alone, particularly in upholding sexual purity (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).

Indulging in hedonistic self-gratification can lead to egocentricity at best (“But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.” – 1 Timothy 5:6) or, at worst.t, pleasure/porn addiction (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5;Proverbs 21:1a). The Bible is clear that we are not to be “mastered” by anything (2 Peter 2:19;1 Corinthians 6:12), and an addiction to ASMR falls into this category. Christians must remember that their bodies are living temples of the Holy Spirit; we must run away from sexual immorality and toward glorifying God (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).

Scripture says we need to exercise discernment about what is beneficial or constructive «All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. », (1 Corinthians 10:23). Is it possible to use audiovisual stimuli to induce ASMR to God’s glory? Is ASMR beneficial or constructive in your life and faith? Does it make you more like Jesus? The enemy’s goal is deception, and he will use whatever means necessary to throw believers off the goal of glorifying God «Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: », (1 Peter 5:8). Believers must be watchful and discerning about what influences they allow to drive the mind and body.