09/02/2026
Sometimes we think we need intense, deep pressure for our massages, but our body tells us different. It can be difficult to speak up or ask for different pressure during your massage, but if you notice any of these during your massage, please do!
- Breath-holding or rapid breathing: if you can’t seem to take consistent, deep breaths through the pressure, it is likely too much.
- Jaw clenching/squeezing eyes shut: If you try to stick through pain or discomfort, your facial muscles are often the first to tense up.
- Feelings sharp, shooting, or electric pain: Sometimes a dull, “good hurt” feeling is exactly what you want out of a massage, but zapping or shooting nerve pain is a major sign that the pressure is too much for your body to handle.
- Bracing or stiffening muscles: If you find yourself guarding certain muscles or pushing back against your massage therapist’s touch, your body is not able to fully relax. A massage with the right pressure will allow you to let go without tensing at each touch.
- Straightening or clenching your fingers and toes: Another area of the body that tells on you while you’re trying to fight through the pain. When you feel intense discomfort, your hands and feet clench or stretch sometimes even subconsciously.
Oftentimes your massage therapist may be able to catch one of these signs and lighten up their pressure, but remember, your communication is the key to finding that perfect sweet spot. If you can’t relax during a massage or your body is fighting against the work, you are not getting what you need out of it.
