Evaluation of the Effect of ASMR on Reduction of Mental Stress: EEG Study

In this study, we demonstrate the effect of ASMR on the EEG activation patterns during the performing of mental tasks in normal subjects. The EEG measured during the performing mental tasks with applying ASMR sound is analyzed, and the power spectrum was calculated in alpha and high-beta (gamma) frequency band. Relatively large size of maze is used as a mental task. Our analysis showed that a significant decrease in alpha-band activity and a significant increase in beta-band activity is marked between resting condition and performing mental tasks. When applying ASMR, both alpha and beta activity during the performing mental task is backed to the level for the resting condition. In conclusion, these results imply that ASMR has the capacity to reduce mental stress.