Popularized by YouTube creators tapping, whispering, and brushing their microphones, ASMR has now found a physical home in San Diego. Founded by local healing artist Alexandria Flores, ASMR Collective SD is a wellness studio focused on calming your nervous system through intentional sensory experiences like the gentle sweep of a makeup brush, the cool tickle of a feather, or the delicate patter of fingertips tracing your shoulders.
ASMR Collective SD Owner Alexandria Flores
What Exactly Is ASMR?
ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, a sensory phenomenon described as a tingling sensation that typically starts at the scalp and travels down the neck and spine. Think of it as a “brain massage” that can bring on a sense of calm, emotional ease, and even euphoria.
“I like to describe it as an automatic response that you’re willingly participating in,” says Flores. “It brings a soothing, calming sensation — almost like the opposite of the startled feeling when your heart drops. With ASMR, you get gentle chills and melt into the moment.”
At its core, ASMR supports the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of us responsible for rest, digestion, and healing. For anyone stuck in fight-or-flight mode (hello, modern life), ASMR offers a gentle way to downshift.
While scientific research on ASMR is still emerging, early studies — including those cited by Dr. Craig Richard, Ph.D., in his TED Talk on the subject — show promising signs. ASMR may help regulate mood, ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reinforce positive mind-body awareness. Regular sessions can act as a reset button for the brain, delivering calming signals through light touch and focused presence.
A Studio That Feels Like a Hug
A range of tools are used to create different ASMR sensations
Flores’ Point Loma studio, ASMR Collective, offers 1:1 sessions designed to soothe both body and mind. Clients remain fully clothed and are guided through a grounding practice before the ASMR begins. Sessions range from 30 to 75 minutes, using tools such as feathers, jade combs, fan brushes, and even chopsticks to gently stimulate the scalp, arms, back, and feet.
Each session is deeply personalized, starting with soft hand strokes (what Flores calls a “petting motion”) and incorporating what she fondly refers to as “scratchies” using fingernails. “It’s all about creating sensations we often miss out on — soothing touch, nurturing attention, and gentle presence,” she explains. “There’s no pressure, no fixing — just receiving.”
The environment is serene and quiet, with soft direction given only as needed. Though auditory ASMR (like whispering and tapping sounds) is available, most of Flores’ clients currently prefer the tactile experiences.
Reclaiming Connection Through Sensation
What sets ASMR Collective apart isn't just its sensory offerings, but its deeper intention: to help people reconnect with themselves, and eventually, with each other. Originally, Flores envisioned group classes for parents and children using ASMR techniques to foster trust, communication, and emotional safety.
“In a group setting, ASMR can be powerful for bonding,” Flores says. “Through gentle touch and laughter, families and friends can experience meaningful connection in a way that feels playful and healing.”
Try It for Yourself
If you're ASMR-curious, Flores recommends starting with a Brief Stay (30 minutes), or The Crown (45 minutes), a fan-favorite that focuses on the head, neck, and shoulders. For a deeper dive, The Rest (75 minutes) provides full-body relaxation using the studio’s full suite of sensory tools.
ASMR Collective SD, 3740 Sports Arena Boulevard, San Diego
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DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified healthcare provider.
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