Pimple popping and makeup slime. Two things that have absolutely nothing to do with each other, except that millions of viewers are watching these videos daily on Youtube, Tiktok, and Instagram. Follow the hashtag #oddlysatisfying and you'll find out.
The hashtag has 3.63 million posts on Instagram and counting. On average, at least one video with the #oddlysatisfying hashtag is posted on Instagram every minute. In 2020, Google Trends reported 24.6 million searches for such content globally versus 4.7 million in 2019 - that is a sixfold increase over two years.
There are myriad reasons why such videos draw so much attention. The global average for video consumption is 84 minutes per day, and it is believed that a number of those minutes are spent on video posts that trigger an Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) - a tingling static-like sensation stimulated by certain sounds and visuals - through visuals that range from the mundane to the weird, like crushing makeup to create bright and colourful slime.
THAT ODD FEELING OF CALM
The idea of "oddly satisfying" and ASMR are often discussed together. The term ASMR was coined in 2010 by healthcare IT consultant Jennifer Allen, who started a Facebook group dedicated to the stimuli.
In 2015, 80 percent of participants in a study of 475 volunteers watching ASMR videos found that their moods improved just by watching the content.
According to Dr. Craig Richard, a professor, and researcher at ASMR University, a resource and news centre based in the US, you can experience ASMR by watching videos and listening to ASMR sounds. The tingling sensations you feel in your scalp and at the back of your neck can also lead to deep soothing feelings of relaxation, calmness, and comfort.
Esta historia es de la edición September 2022 de Her World Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición September 2022 de Her World Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
The Rise Of Tradwives
Is this just another fancy name for a stay-at-home mum?
Independent Woman
Tap on floral prints, flowy skirts, sharp tailoring and sporty details for a new take on power dressing.
Buying An Independent Watch? Here's How To Find A Good One.
Karishma Tulsidas answers.
Would You Swipe Right On Feminism?
In the debut instalment of this new opinion column, a single Singaporean declares that in her search for a long-term partner, there's nothing more attractive than a man who embraces gender equality.
The Orange Peel Theory
Would you break up with your partner over peeled fruit? This latest social media trend might just be the unlikely dealbreaker.
You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Taking A Vacation
Even though you've booked that much-needed vacation, you might find yourself hesitant to take the time off. How do you address the guilt that may be weighing you down, and actually enjoy your holiday?
Let Your Emotions Go
Have a flaky friend who always bails on plans? Here's how you can share how you feel while addressing the situation effectively.
How Much Is Family Planning Actually Costing You?
It's always prudent to be financially sound and savvy - especially if you're planning to start a family. Find out how you and your partner can map out a financial plan that is realistic, based on advice from parents and experts.
Do You Feel Guilty About Taking Leave?
We ask the Her World team, as well as readers, if they can truly unplug from work during a vacation.
Air-Dry Or Blow-Dry - Which Is Worse For Your Mane?
Haircare experts share their advice.
