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Press Harder, Always Harder… Is It Really Necessary?
In my profession, when I receive new clients, I often get asked for strong, very strong pressure: "Don't be afraid to press hard, even if it hurts, I can take it… the more it hurts, the more it will help me." Here we find a mentality deeply rooted in our minds, the "no pain, no gain" phrase, which is typical in the world of physical training. However, in massage therapy, hearing this phrase makes me laugh, because the goal sought is entirely different from that of physical training.
Why do you come to see me? You are in pain and you ask me (in your own words) to "destroy your muscle knots" with very painful pressure. It is a bit ironic to consult for pain and ask your therapist to create more pain to relieve the initial problem.
Know that we live in an era where our brain, too often occupied with 1000 things at once, is disconnected from our body. When you reach the point of being "at the end of your rope," it is often because the body has long been in pain, injured, and has given up on sending you warning signals.
So, as a client, you come to see me and ask for very strong pressure to reconnect with your bodily sensations. However, your body does not need more pain.
In massage therapy, it is necessary to respect a gradation. It is USELESS and even COUNTERPRODUCTIVE to "break through" the tissue barriers (skin, fascia, muscles). The body is often tense because it protects structures that have tensed due to external problems. Therefore, it is essential to understand what is happening, "listen" to the body, and trust the hands of the massage therapist as they work through the body tissues.
Of course, there are different types of massage therapists. You also need to differentiate between what you desire versus the technique practiced by the therapist. For example, the therapist may focus on relaxation, energy work, or the "gentle" form of massage therapy… so if you prefer "strong pressure," opt for a massage therapist who uses techniques like Swedish, deep tissue, kinesiology, stretching.
I would advise calling the clinic first and asking which massage technique would be recommended for your situation. Then, make an appointment and discuss your needs with the massage therapist on the day of the session.
Additionally, it is recommended to alternate techniques, sometimes a therapeutic massage, sometimes a relaxation massage. The body, as well as the brain, greatly needs to let go. Never neglect both!
In short, do not hesitate to contact us for more information or to make a massage therapy appointment.