Since the dawn of man, humans have suffered from insomnia, or sleeplessness. Numerous drugs, substances, and strategies have been invented and used over time to treat the phenomenon, but these drugs pose serious health risks. While substances like alcohol, diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Nyquil), benzos(Xanax) and opiates (Vicodin, Heroin) produce sleep-inducing symptoms, they are highly addictive and can lead to permanent disruption to the brain’s sleep cycles.

According to the American Sleep Association, the brain goes through 5 stages as it cycles over the course of the night. Each cycle is about 90 minutes. Stages 3 and 4 are the most important to health, and stage 5 is when dreaming occurs. Cannabis, commonly known as Marijuana, weed, pot, etc.… has been proven to increase the slow-wave stage (3-4) of the sleep cycle, which is where most of the recovery and rejuvenation of sleeping occurs. However, due to restrictive legislature, there is not enough research to study any possible drawbacks to relying on marijuana as a sleep-aid, such as decreased REM sleep (stage 5).

Not to fear, there is a new phenomenon that has given insomniacs a drug-free solution to their sleepless nights. This phenomenon is called ASMR: Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. ASMR artists use high-tech binaural 3D microphones to record triggers that produce pleasurable head tingles that help millions of YouTubers with a pair of headphones fall asleep every night. These tingles are triggered by various trigger words, panning mouth sounds, tapping noises, as well as visual triggers such as hand movements. The brain tingles provide users with a relaxed mood, which can make ASMR very helpful for individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, or anger management. Not everyone experiences ASMR, but to those who do, it has truly done wonders for them. A good night sleep, which for many used to seem like a myth, is now an every night reality.

There are hundreds of thousands of different ASMR channels on YouTube, but the most viewed video and channel belongs to GentleWhispering, run by a young Russian Woman named Maria.

Personally, ASMR has truly saved my nights. Having struggled from insomnia since I was an infant, it is very relieving to have finally found a solution to my sleepless nights. ASMR can also work wonders when you’re stressed, and I listen to videos all the time when I am studying. Wondering if you can experience ASMR? Find a pair of good headphones and a quiet room and you can find out for yourself!