New Yorkers are forking over $100s for people to whisper in their ears and tickle them at bizarre new ASMR spa
ASMR has become all the rage on social media recently – with bizarre videos of people whispering into a microphone or tapping something to create a soothing sound surging in popularity.
And now, people in New York City can experience the phenomenon in person at the brand new ASMR spa called WhisperWave – but it comes at a steep price.
Sessions cost anywhere from $150 to $162 depending on the day of the week.
Customers endure a range of things like soft head and back scratches, tickling with feathers, and someone whispering in their ear.
Founder Rebecca Benvie, 40, spoke exclusively to the Daily Mail about the new spa.
‘I’ve always been fascinated by both ASMR and nervous system healing,’ she explained.
‘ASMR has been something I personally connected with for years, and I was struck by how powerful it can be for calming the mind and body.
‘At the same time, I’ve been deeply interested in ways we can work with the nervous system to support well-being. WhisperWave was born from bringing those two threads together.
New Yorkers are forking over $100s for people to whisper in their ears and tickle them at new ASMR spa called WhisperWave in New York City
Customers endure a range of things like soft head and back scratches, tickling with feathers, and someone whispering in their ear
‘ASMR felt like the perfect medium because it’s already familiar through pop culture, yet it carries a depth that can make nervous system support more approachable for people who might not otherwise seek out traditional somatic therapies.’
A scientific study released by Northumbria University in 2022 found that ASMR – described as a pleasurable tingly feeling triggered by whispering and gentle touches – can help reduce anxiety.
ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) consists of relaxing ‘brain tingles’ experienced by some people in response to specific sights, sounds, and textures.
The sensation typically begins at the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine.
‘ASMR works by sending signals of safety to the brain through soft, repetitive stimuli,’ explained Rebecca.
‘When the nervous system feels supported, the body can release stress and shift into a state of rest. That’s why the effect feels so deeply calming.’
She said that each session, which lasts one hour, is ‘focused on soothing the nervous system through gentle sound and touch.’
‘This can include soft spoken, nostalgic elements like backtracking and light touch,’ Rebecca shared. ‘Each element is designed to bring a sense of comfort and ease.’
Founder Rebecca Benvie, 40, spoke to the Daily Mail about the new spa, explaining, ‘ASMR works by sending signals of safety to the brain through soft, repetitive stimuli’
‘During this private session, you’ll be guided through a calming journey with a carefully curated selection of ASMR triggers,’ reads the description of the basic session.
‘Expect soft whispers that bring comfort, back tracing that soothes the body, and arm tracing to further deepen the relaxation, allowing tension to melt away.
‘The gentle sounds of brushes, along with these tactile sensations, will work together to calm your nervous system and ease you into a state of tranquil bliss.’
Rebecca said the ‘response has been great’ and that clients often tell her ‘they’ve been waiting years for something like this.’
She insisted that there a slew of benefits to ASMR including ‘helping calm the nervous system,’ easing stress, and making it easier to fall asleep at night.
‘At the heart of it, people are seeking rest and restoration,’ she concluded. ‘Many people come because they are carrying stress and want to feel more at ease.
‘Some are curious about ASMR and want to finally try it in person. Others are looking for a new way to relax outside of massage or reiki.
‘Clients often describe feeling lighter and more grounded [afterwards], with their minds clear and their bodies more relaxed. It can support better sleep, stress relief, and overall well-being.’
