I have always created artwork for my own enjoyment or artwork for someone else. I have painted portraits in acrylic, watercolor, and ink. Through my eyes, making artwork for others means bringing joy and comfort to that individual. The artwork I have created for myself, are vulnerable pieces I keep private. The video titled, “Art Therapist in ASMRtist Role '' is the first work that combines art-making for me as well as for the viewer. I explored the phenomenon, autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR), and art therapy in this piece by focusing on the audio and visual sensory response for the viewer. Independently I learned how to film, record, edit, and upload to create the desired sensory experience. As an individual who experiences ASMR and frequently watches ASMR videos as a calming tool, it was important for me to create this video for myself and share it with others.
What is ASMR?
tingly response at the base of their skull or a pleasurable sensation within head, neck, and shoulders
associated with feelings of calmness and relaxation (Barrett & Davis, 2015, Fredborg, Clark, & Smith, 2018)
first research exploring ASMR effect on the mental and physical state was published in 2015 (Barratt & Davis, 2015).
ASMR is an art form, ASMRtists
How can this be used within the field of art therapy? How can art therapists utilize ASMR within their practice to provide healing with clients?
"..the benefits of watching ASMR videos include an uplifted mood, pain relief, a flow state of mind, induction of mindfulness, feeling of immersion and potential loss of reflective awareness, increase of well-being and happiness, emotional regulation, positive sensory and emotional experience for the individual".
Art Therapy and ASMR
There are four domains ASMR and art therapy overlap in research:
Mindfulness
Flow
Self-care
Sensory Stimulation
Through out my research I conclude watching ASMR videos within an art therapy session has the potential to enhance the well-being of clientele who experience the physical and emotional aspects of ASMR. Although the percentage of participants who may benefit from the use of ASMR videos during therapy is potentially quite small, the impact for those individuals can be profound. This research has been informed by DBT and ACT, which will continue to inform the study on ASMR and art therapy within my practice. I urge further exploration on the ASMR video’s use within therapeutic research and the benefits of watching ASMR with clientele.
If you would like to read more about my research, attached below is my graduate project submitted in partial fulfillment
of requirements for the degree of
Master of Art in Art Therapy and Counseling
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