We all have our unique bedtime rituals. Some of us prefer reading, while others might meditate or listen to soothing music. But there’s a growing group of people who find solace in watching strange yet calming videos to drift off to sleep.
These aren’t your typical sleep-inducing landscapes or white noise videos. These are oddly satisfying clips that may bewilder some, yet bring a sense of peace to others.
Psychology has something to say about this group. According to it, these nighttime video watchers tend to share certain characteristics.
Intrigued? Here are the 8 traits that people who watch strange but calming videos at night usually display, as per psychology. So, let’s dive in and see if you identify with any of these.
1) Seeking sensory stimulation
People who fall asleep to strange yet calming videos often crave sensory stimulation. They are the ones who find comfort in the rhythmic patterns of a spinning washing machine or the soft crackling of a bonfire.
These videos, often categorised as ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response), tap into this need for sensory engagement. They provide an audio-visual experience that’s both stimulating and soothing, making it easier for them to relax and fall asleep.
Psychology explains this as a form of self-soothing behavior, often linked to high levels of creativity and a vivid imagination. It’s not about avoiding reality, but rather about finding solace in the sensory richness of the world around us.
So if you find yourself drawn to these strange but calming videos, it could be your brain’s creative way of winding down after a long day.
2) Comfort in routine
As someone who watches these videos, I can attest to the comfort they bring. It’s all part of a nightly routine that signals to my brain that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
For me, it’s not just about the content of the videos. It’s the routine of settling into bed, plugging in my earphones, and losing myself in these strange yet calming visuals. It’s become such a part of my bedtime ritual that I find it hard to fall asleep without it.
Psychology tells us that routines are essential for maintaining our mental health. They provide a sense of structure and predictability that can be incredibly soothing, especially in times of stress or uncertainty.
So while some might find it odd, turning to these videos night after night isn’t just about the content. It’s about the comfort of a familiar routine and the sense of security it brings.
3) High empathy levels
People who watch strange but calming videos before sleep often tend to exhibit high levels of empathy. This trait allows them to connect deeply with the sounds and visuals, enabling them to experience a sense of calm and relaxation.
Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is a psychological trait that’s heightened among watchers of these videos. Research found that ASMR viewers often score significantly higher on empathy in personality tests.
This could explain why they are more susceptible to the calming effects of these videos. Their empathic nature allows them to connect more deeply with the content, resulting in a more profound relaxation response.
4) Openness to new experiences
If you’re someone who enjoys watching these peculiar yet soothing videos, chances are, you’re also open to new experiences. This trait is part of the Big Five personality dimensions used by psychologists to describe human personality.
Being open to experience means you’re likely curious, imaginative, and willing to challenge conventional norms. It’s no surprise then that such individuals find themselves drawn to these unique and unconventional videos.
So while others might stick to traditional methods of relaxation, those with high openness are more likely to seek out new and different ways to unwind. They thrive on novelty and diversity, finding comfort in these strange but calming videos.
5) A deep sense of loneliness
Watching these strange but calming videos often speaks to a deeper, more emotional need. For many, it’s about filling a void of loneliness.
In our increasingly digital world, it’s easy to feel isolated, even when surrounded by others. These videos provide a sense of companionship, a calming presence that helps them feel less alone as they drift off to sleep.
These individuals often find comfort in the familiar faces or voices in the videos, creating a sense of connection that eases their solitude. It’s not just about falling asleep – it’s about feeling a little less alone in the world.
So while it may seem strange to some, these videos can be a lifeline for those grappling with loneliness, offering comfort and companionship at the end of the day.
6) Coping with anxiety
Life can be overwhelming at times. The constant pressure to perform, to meet expectations, to be always ‘on’ – it can all build up, leading to a mind that just won’t quieten down.
I’ve been there. The racing thoughts, the constant worry, the struggle to switch off – it’s a battle that I face often. And it’s in these moments that I turn to these strange but calming videos.
The gentle rhythms, the soft sounds, the mesmerising visuals – they offer an escape, a way to quieten the mind and find a moment of peace. They provide a distraction from my anxious thoughts, helping me relax and ultimately drift off to sleep.
It’s not a cure for anxiety, but it’s a coping mechanism that works for me. And chances are, if you’re drawn to these videos too, they might be helping you cope with your own anxieties as well.
7) Highly detail-oriented
Those who find solace in these peculiar yet calming videos often display a keen attention to detail. They are drawn to the intricate patterns, the precise movements, the meticulous details that these videos often portray.
This trait aligns with the microscopic focus that these videos demand. Whether it’s the slow unfolding of a blooming flower or the rhythmic movements of a spinning top, these videos satisfy their craving for detail and precision.
It’s this ability to appreciate the finer details that sets them apart. Their detail-oriented nature allows them to derive immense satisfaction and relaxation from these seemingly mundane visuals. This, in turn, helps them unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
8) They embrace their uniqueness
Perhaps the most important trait shared by those who watch strange but calming videos to fall asleep is their willingness to embrace their uniqueness. They aren’t deterred by the oddity of their sleep ritual, nor do they shy away from sharing it with others.
In a world where fitting in is often the norm, these individuals stand out by being true to themselves. They find comfort in what works for them, regardless of how unconventional it may seem to others.
Embracing one’s uniqueness is a trait that goes beyond just watching strange videos at night. It reflects a broader mindset of self-acceptance and authenticity. This acceptance can lead to greater self-esteem, mental health, and overall happiness.
