Why does pressure matter?

The pressure applied during a massage session has an effect on parts of the autonomic nervous system. It can either activate the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) or it can activate the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest). Massage applied with light to medium pressure does not activate the pain receptors in the body. Activating a pain response during a massage is often counter-productive and can make the massage techniques less effective if the body or mind respond with a protective reaction during the massage session.

Looking for a "deep tissue" massage? Getting a massage with a lot of pressure does not always mean you will get the results you want. At Urban Massage, the amount of pressure applied during a massage is not a type of massage. "Deep Tissue Massage" is simply a description of the pressure being used during a massage.

We focus on the skilled application of massage techniques based on what your goals are for the session. We encourage open communication about the desired pressure during a service and do our best to communicate what effects deep pressure will or will not have.

For example, light to medium pressured massage is more likely than deep tissue pressure to increase feelings of social bonding, trust, generosity and empathy as well as activate the immune system and reduce stress. Pressure should not be painful. This is why it is important to openly communicate with the therapist about the way the pressure being applied feels and we will adjust as needed.

Learn more about the Massage Therapy we offer.