Evansville Spa Now Offering Wildly Popular ‘Sensory Scratch Therapy’

Hitting My Forties Changed Everything

A couple of years ago, I hit my forties. Yes, midlife. And when I did, things started changing in my body. One of those changes was waking up in the middle of the night with hot flashes brought on by a stubborn virus I fought for several months and perimenopause.

When I’d wake up, I’d have to strip down and change my clothes, which really woke me up. When I couldn’t fall back asleep, I found that the only thing that helped was ASMR.

What Is ASMR

If you aren’t familiar with autonomous sensory meridian response, or ASMR, it’s when certain sounds or visuals trigger a physical reaction in the body. For example, I can watch someone getting a massage, and my brain reacts as if I’m the one getting the massage. In the ASMR world, they call it “tingles.”

Some people get goosebumps, others feel a wave of calm, and some just get super relaxed. It works both ways too. I can’t watch videos of people getting hurt or embarrassed because my sensory response is so strong it sends a rush of negative energy through me. Studies show that ASMR doesn’t affect everyone, but people with higher empathy often get those endorphin releases from watching or listening.

The Science of ASMR

One study examined the effects ASMR had young, healthy adults. They found that ASMR can have positive effects on the body, including reduced heart rate and a sense of calm. Those who experience the tingles also felt a boost in their mood and a reduction in depressive feelings.

The Many Types of ASMR

There are so many types of ASMR, and in my opinion, some of them make me want to jump out a window. I think “mukbang,” or watching people eat, is absolutely horrific. And I’m not into the pretend “we’re lying in bed together” stuff either. If you are into those types, more power to you. They just aren't for me.

What I do love are interesting sounds like crinkling paper, thunderstorms and rain, running water, or squishy textures. My mom, however, hates that type. She says it feels like she has mice and rats running through her brain! My husband thinks it's all hokey. It's all a matter of personal preference. I also turn to absolute mush if I see someone getting their back scratched or massaged.

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Why Back Scratching and Massage ASMR Are So Popular

One of the most popular ASMR styles is back scratching and massage. People with strong empathetic traits can actually “feel” the scratches through their parasympathetic nervous system, which tricks their brain into feeling those gentle fingernails down their back, arms, and legs.

There’s also a nostalgic element to it. Many of us remember the egg crack game, or having a parent rub our back or face when we were kids. I used to love sitting next to my dad because he’d absentmindedly rub my back or give me a head massage. Now, that’s my husband’s job!

Scratch Therapy Comes to Evansville

Watching is one thing, but people want to actually experience a good back scratch! Scratch Therapy and ASMR spas have been popping up across the country, and now it's being offered in Evansville. It was announced on Facebook that one local spa is now offering “sensory scratch therapy.”

If you’re wondering what that is, you’re not alone. A client lies on a massage table just like during a regular massage, but instead of being kneaded like bread, the practitioner wears special “nails” or uses their fingertips to gently glide across the skin.

Lush Beauty Lounge Offers Sensory Scratch Therapy

Lush Beauty Lounge on Morgan Avenue is now offering Sensory Scratch Therapy. According to their Facebook post, “Sensory Scratch Therapy is more than a trend ��� it’s a scientifically supported relaxation technique that’s gaining national attention for its ability to calm the nervous system, trigger endorphins, and melt away stress. Each session combines the soothing rhythm of gentle scratching with the power of sensory stimulation, promoting deep relaxation and balance from within. It’s not just self-care — it’s science-backed serenity.”

I caught up with Sarah Mcfarland, the owner of Lush Beauty Lounge. She answered a few questions that you might be wondering.

Meet Sarah McFarland, The Woman Behind Evansville’s New Sensory Scratch Therapy

Sarah McFarland is the owner of Lush Beauty Lounge and No Cap Hair Loss Solutions in Evansville. She’s also the woman introducing the trending spa service “Scratch Therapy” to the area.

At Lush Beauty Lounge, Sarah offers several exclusive services, including non-invasive body contouring and scalp micropigmentation for hair loss.

Creating a Safe and Empowering Space

Sarah told me she’s passionate about creating safe, empowering spaces where people can relax, heal, and reconnect with themselves, both inside and out.

Many people feel like they can’t enjoy spa treatments because of their body shape or because they feel self-conscious about something that makes them different. Sarah takes pride in making sure that doesn’t happen at Lush Beauty Lounge. It’s a welcoming space for everyone, no matter their background, body type, or gender.

I had a few more questions about the service and what people can expect when they book.

Q: How did you first discover Sensory Scratch Therapy, and what made you decide to bring it to Evansville?

Honestly, the first time I saw it, I was instantly intrigued. It’s such a unique concept that taps into something most people don’t even realize they’re missing — that deep sensory stimulation and relaxation combination. I’ve always been drawn to treatments that help people feel good both physically and emotionally, so when I learned about Sensory Scratch Therapy, I knew it would be a perfect fit for Evansville. It’s different, it’s therapeutic, and it’s exactly the kind of thing I love introducing to my clients — something that surprises them in the best way.

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Q: What can someone expect at their appointment?

When someone comes in for Sensory Scratch Therapy, they can expect a completely relaxing, sensory-rich experience that’s unlike anything they’ve tried before. It’s all about touch, texture, and pressure — customized to your comfort level. The session is done in a calm, low-light setting with relaxing music. Clients are draped or in undergarments depending on their comfort and preference, and I make sure the entire experience feels safe, soothing, and intentional from start to finish.

Sometimes life gets so busy that we forget what it feels like to just be — to sit in peace and quiet, away from all the noise, expectations, and chaos. Sensory Scratch Therapy gives you permission to escape the hustle and bustle for a little while and simply exist in the moment. It’s grounding, it’s calming, and it reminds you how important it is to slow down and reconnect with yourself.

Q: If someone is ticklish, how do you handle that to make sure they get the most out of their appointment?

That’s one of the first things I ask before we begin! If someone is ticklish, I’ll adjust the technique, speed, or pressure right away. It’s not supposed to make you uncomfortable — it’s supposed to feel calming and deeply relaxing. Some people are surprised that once they settle in and know what to expect, the ticklish feeling fades completely. You’re in control the entire time, and I always check in to make sure it feels right for you.

Q: How can a person book an appointment?

Booking is super easy — you can schedule directly through our link on Instagram or Facebook, or by messaging Lush Beauty Lounge. Since the service is in high demand, a deposit is required to book. There’s also a pay-in-full-in-advance option to reserve your spot.

Q: What kind of feedback have you received so far from clients trying it for the first time?

Every single person has said the same thing: “I didn’t expect to love it that much.” Most describe it as calming, grounding, and even a little addictive in the best way. A lot of clients say it helps them release anxiety, reset after a stressful week, or finally relax in a way they haven’t in years. It’s been amazing to see how something so simple can have such a powerful effect.

Christmas Gift, Anyone?

All I can say is, if any of my familiy members are reading this and want to get me something that I'll truly love for Christmas, this rates at the top of my list! Ha!

Book your scratch session with Sarah today and bliss out! today!