Radio Headspace How ASMR Rewires the Brain for Calm, Sleep, and Stress Relief, with Dr. Craig Richard
Nov 9, 2025
Dr. Craig Richard, a professor of physiology and founder of ASMR University, delves into the intriguing world of ASMR. He explains the brain's response to ASMR triggers, highlighting how feelings of safety and trust, often felt during moments of personal attention, evoke relaxation. Listeners will learn about the fascinating role of oxytocin in ASMR, the different sensory triggers, and how ASMR can complement traditional therapies for stress and sleep issues. Richard also discusses future research directions, including genetic studies related to ASMR experiences.
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How He Found ASMR
- Craig Richard discovered ASMR in 2013 from a podcast and recognized his own experiences with Bob Ross.
- He launched asmruniversity.com and began research because no studies existed then.
Positive Personal Attention Triggers ASMR
- ASMR is a deeply relaxing feeling often with tingles down the scalp, neck, and spine.
- It commonly arises when someone gives calm, kind, positive personal attention that builds trust.
Eye Contact Simulates Real Attention
- Eye contact and calm delivery in videos simulate direct personal attention and increase ASMR effectiveness.
- The brain interprets kind attention as nonthreatening and worth staying focused on.
