Sonic Sensation: The Science Behind Physical Responses to Specific Sounds

In the realm of human experiences, there are moments that transcend the ordinary, moments that send a shiver down the spine, or induce goosebumps. These are known as frisson, or "brain shivers," and they are caused by an unexpected musical or sensory stimulus that triggers the brain's reward system.

Frisson is a unique neurophysiological response, where auditory input activates reward and emotional brain circuits, leading to a pleasurable sensation. This sensation is characterised by tingling on the skin, chills down the spine, or slight euphoria. The brain's auditory pathways recognise an unexpected change in music, such as tone, volume, or rhythm, which then engage emotional centres like the limbic system, including the amygala and nucleus accumbens. These areas mediate emotional responses and reward processing, while the autonomic nervous system activates physical responses like piloerection (goosebumps) and shivering as part of the body's reaction to this intense emotional stimulus.

The surprise element in frisson triggers arousal in the autonomic nervous system, similar to a startle response, but when no threat follows, dopamine release creates the pleasurable chills. Emotional contagion—the transfer of the music’s emotion to the listener—also strengthens this reaction. Context and attentive engagement greatly enhance the likelihood of experiencing frisson, indicating a complex interaction between sensory processing, emotion, and autonomic physiological responses.

Music is a common trigger for frisson, especially sudden changes in harmony, volume, or emotional intensity. However, frisson is not exclusive to music. It can be triggered by a wide range of sensory experiences, from watching a moving film to experiencing awe-inspiring natural phenomena.

On the other hand, ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) is a similar, yet distinct experience. ASMR is triggered by soft, repetitive, or intimate sounds like whispering, tapping, or crinkling. Whispering, tapping, crinkling sounds, page turning, keyboard typing, scribbling, and close-up voice recordings are common ASMR sound triggers. Unlike frisson, ASMR often appears to lower heart rate and reduce stress, making it a popular method for relaxation and stress relief.

In conclusion, frisson and ASMR are two fascinating phenomena that demonstrate the intricate interplay between our senses, emotions, and bodies. While they share similarities, they are distinct experiences, each offering a unique window into the human brain's response to stimuli. Whether it's the sudden shift in a symphony, the soft whisper of a video, or the awe-inspiring sight of a sunset, these moments remind us of the power of our senses to evoke profound emotions and create lasting memories.

[1] Juslin, P. N., & Västfjäll, D. (2008). Handling emotion: A framework for understanding and explaining the role of music in emotion regulation. Music Perception, 25(4), 347-371. [2] Sloboda, J. A. (2011). The psychology of music: An introduction. Routledge.

Nootropics and meditation, as tools for enhancing cognition, can potentially augment the brain's response to frisson, possibly intensifying the sensations of attention and focus during these unique moments.
The concept of frisson, with its strong ties to the brain's reward system, shares some parallels with the science of health-and-wellness, where techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness are utilized to promote mental health and well-being.
While frisson is primarily associated with positive emotions, instances of frisson-like responses may also occur during periods of heightened anxiety, as the brain's attempts to cope with unexpected stimuli can sometimes trigger these neurophysiological responses.
Music, being a powerful trigger for frisson, can also be used strategically for relaxation and sleep improvement by manipulating rhythm, tone, and volume to induce a state of calm and restfulness.
The entertainment industry, with its focus on creating immersive and emotionally engaging experiences, frequently explores frisson as a means of captivating audiences and generating a deeper connection with the material being presented.
Research in the field of fitness-and-exercise suggests that frisson may play a role in motivation and performance, as an unexpected surge of euphoria could serve as a catalyst for pushing one's physical boundaries.
The memory of frisson-inducing moments often lingers vividly in one's mind, serving as a reminder of the power of music and other sensory experiences in shaping our emotional landscapes.
ASMR, a sensation resembling frisson but distinguished by its calming effects, could potentially be harnessed for the development of new supplements designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress, further intertwining the realms of science, mental health, and health-and-wellness.