ASMR For Pregnancy - 3 Benefits

ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. It’s a series of sounds that can stimulate the same relaxation we experience when we’re in REM sleep or having acupuncture. It sends a relaxing tingling sensation through your head and down your spine, which calms the entire body. 

An ‘ASMRtist’ uses a series of ‘triggers’ from speaking softly, to tapping and crinkling different objects and a sensitive microphone, or often two to stimulate each ear as if you’re right there in the room. ASMR is best enjoyed with headphones.

What are the benefits of ASMR for Pregnancy?

Research has found ASMR is particularly ‘potent’ for pregnant women. During pregnancy, many of your senses are heightened which can make you more susceptible to having a ‘tingly’ response to a stimulant such as ASMR. Not only that, but your increased hormone levels may even mean the payoff can be heightened too. 

Relaxation and Sleep

In the third trimester, when sleep can be especially tricky, many women turn to ASMR to get some well-needed downtime. Stimulating the body’s meridians can simulate the same sensations we experience while we’re in a deep, cosy sleep. 

It’s a great way to start processing the day and get your body into the rhythm of sleep, as your mind quietens down and you can drift off. 

Can reduce anxiety.

As well as helping you to relax, ASMR can be a great stimulant for positive hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, which naturally soothe anxiety. It’s also a great tool for keeping you present and, depending on which type of ASMR you choose to watch - practicing mindfulness. 

ASMR can help with labour, breastfeeding, and beyond. 

When you’re experiencing the ASMR tingles and positive hormones, you’re also releasing oxytocin, a crucial hormone for getting labour going. Oxytocin is known as the love hormone, as well as encouraging contractions, it can also support breastmilk production and bonding with your baby! 

You can find out more about using ASMR to encourage labour here.

I have a 1-year-old little one, and we snuggle down every evening with some ASMR while he drifts off to sleep. It’s our little thing that brings us close together to relax at the end of each day. 

If you’ve never tried ASMR, you could start by watching a relaxing video of JenASMRUnboxing unpacking one of our Dear Mama boxes!