06/26/2025
This is a big one of my physical reactions to input and frequency. Also my eyes watering, like a faucet, sometimes only one or the other. And ears ringing. π€·ββοΈπ
Frisson is a scientifically recognized phenomenon in which a person experiences sudden chills or goosebumps in response to powerful sensory stimuli, most commonly music. The term "frisson" comes from the French word for "shiver," and it describes a brief, intense emotional response triggered by unexpected moments in a songβsuch as key changes, dramatic pauses, or powerful vocals.
Research shows that frisson is linked to unique neural activity in the brain. People who experience it typically have stronger connections between the auditory cortex and the emotional centers of the brain, such as the insula and prefrontal cortex. This heightened connectivity allows them to form deeper emotional responses to sound and other sensory input.
Frisson is not limited to music. It can also be triggered by emotional scenes in films, moving speeches, or visually striking art. The experience is usually brief but intense, characterized by physical reactions like goosebumps, chills, or even a lump in the throat.
Not everyone experiences frisson. Studies suggest that only a portion of the population is neurologically wired to feel it, indicating a specific sensitivity to emotionally charged stimuli. It is considered a sign of high emotional responsiveness and is often associated with traits like openness to experience in personality psychology.
Frisson is a measurable, real phenomenon that illustrates the powerful connection between the senses and human emotion. It offers insight into how the brain interprets and responds to art, music, and other forms of aesthetic expression.