Deep Pressure Doesn’t Have to Hurt to Be Effective

There’s a strange belief that if bodywork doesn’t hurt, it isn’t doing anything. This belief is incorrect, outdated, and mildly aggressive.

Effective deep pressure is slow, grounded, and responsive. It works with tissue tone, not against it. When pressure is applied too quickly or forcefully, the nervous system tightens. When it’s applied with pacing and intention, the body yields.

Yielding is where change happens.

Relaxing deep pressure supports circulation, reduces protective holding patterns, and allows muscles to reorganize without triggering defensive contraction. This is especially important for people who carry tension from stress, sitting, caregiving, or long-term responsibility.

Pain does not equal progress. Response equals progress.

If your body has learned to brace for years, it needs consistency and clarity, not punishment.

Related reading: How Sitting Is Killing Your Sex Life (and Your Orgasm) by Joanna Iris