ASMR, short for autonomous sensory meridian response, has made its way from the digital realm to real-world experiences, including in South Africa. Ann-Marie Viviers, founder of Heavenly Healing, has introduced one of the first ASMR-based massage treatments in the country. Inspired by the online trend that has captivated millions seeking calm in a chaotic world, ASMR massage is designed to soothe frayed nerves through touch, breath, sensory experiences, and ambient sounds.
The treatment involves a controlled sensory environment with soft thunder, rain sounds, and intuitive touch to quiet the noise in one’s mind. Beginning with a mist of water infused with crystals like selenite and clear quartz, clients choose their sound palette from options like rainfall and rustling leaves. The massage itself includes gentle brushing with feathers or fabric and the placement of stones like larimar or amethyst for grounding or emotional release.
The experience is described as a full-body and full-spirit journey, allowing clients to feel seen without needing to speak. It is a soft and gentle massage that helps the body settle and the mind find stillness, focusing on emotional reset rather than knots or pressure points. Dr. Jonathan Redelinghuys, a psychologist and medical doctor, notes that ASMR’s popularity signifies a shift towards sensory-based therapies that bypass the brain’s defenses and bring the nervous system to a state of safety.
While clinical research on ASMR is still in its early stages, existing studies suggest potential benefits such as reduced anxiety, lower heart rate, and improved sleep for those who respond to the stimuli. The treatment has attracted individuals uncomfortable with traditional massage, offering a space for them to feel without the need for conversation. Sessions typically last between one to one and a half hours, emphasizing presence over outcomes and creating a pause for stillness and healing.
Incorporating ASMR into wellness treatments is seen as a valuable approach to healing, focusing on attention and care rather than analysis. By helping individuals feel safe and calm, ASMR massage provides a unique and therapeutic experience for those seeking respite from the demands of daily life.
