Scientists estimate that only one in 1500 of us can make our skin raise goosebumps at will. And on top of that, based on our knowledge of how our unconscious nervous system operates, it should not be possible.
Now, if you’re thinking you can raise goosebumps at will by thinking of fingernails on a chalkboard that’s not using your unconscious nervous system. Physiologist James Heathers says you can’t think about it – that’s using mental or cognitive components – the people he’s studied don’t have to think about it.
From interviews and studies with people who can raise goosebumps at will – they have unusually “open” personalities, are more creative, have vivid imaginations, and pay more attention to themselves and their emotions. Most focus on a point, behind their ear or on their neck or at the back of the head. They don’t have to think of anything.
Are you the one in 1,500 who can raise goosebumps anytime? I’m not. But I can raise goosebumps by walking up my parent’s basement steps. Works every time.
