Quick answer: Tell your therapist your preferred pressure before you start, using a simple 1 to 10 scale where 5 is medium and 8 is firm but comfortable. Speak up at any point if it is too much or too little; therapists adjust all the time and will not be offended. Pain that makes you tense or hold your breath is too much.
Key Takeaways
- Agree a number on a 1 to 10 scale before you start.
- Good work can feel strong but never makes you tense up.
- Say "a bit firmer" or "a bit lighter" at any point.
- Mention injuries, tender areas and medication before the session.
- DED Licence 114732
- 4.9 from 944 Google reviews
- Open 24 Hours · 365 Days
- Therapists with 5+ years' experience
Why Do So Many People Stay Quiet?
Because they do not want to seem rude, or they think it is supposed to hurt. Some guests assume the therapist knows best. Others feel shy, especially at their first visit. The result is the same: an hour of pressure that is not quite right, and a guest who decides massage is not for them.
Your therapist cannot feel what you feel. A few words from you change the whole session.
How Does the 1 to 10 Pressure Scale Work?
It gives you and your therapist a shared language.
| Number | What it feels like | Who usually asks for it |
|---|---|---|
| 2 to 3 | Light, soothing, almost like stroking | First-timers, very tired guests |
| 4 to 6 | Medium: muscles worked, still very relaxing | Most guests, most days |
| 7 to 8 | Firm: strong, but you stay relaxed | Physical workers, regular guests |
| 9 to 10 | Too much: you tense or hold your breath | Nobody, ideally |
Pick a number before you start. You can always change it.
What Should You Say Before the Session?
Your number, your problem areas and anything to avoid. For example:
- "Medium pressure, about a 5, with extra time on my lower back."
- "I like it firm, around 8, but my left shoulder is sore, so gently there."
- "I've never had a massage before. Can we start light?"
Mention any injury, recent surgery, pregnancy, skin condition or medication such as blood thinners. Your therapist will adjust or advise you.
What Should You Say During the Session?
Short, simple phrases work best:
- "A bit firmer, please."
- "A bit lighter there."
- "That spot is tender."
- "That's perfect, keep it like that."
Therapists check in during the session, especially in the first few minutes. You do not have to wait to be asked.
How Do You Know When It Is Too Much?
If you tense up, hold your breath or pull away, it is too much. Strong work can feel intense, but your body should stay soft. When muscles brace against pain, they fight the therapist rather than relax. Feeling bruised for days afterwards is another sign the pressure was too high.
Does the Style Change How Firm It Feels?
Yes, each style has a natural range, but every one can be adjusted. Indian is the lightest on our menu, Kerala and Moroccan sit in the medium range, Pakistani works firmly on the upper body and our Russian style is the firmest. If you are not sure, read about what happens during your visit, or simply tell reception how firm you like it and we will suggest a style.
Does It Change During One Session?
Yes. Good therapists vary it with the area of the body. The back and thighs usually welcome more pressure than the neck, shins or feet. Your therapist will start lighter, build up and check with you. If one area needs a different level, say so; it is normal to want firm work on the back and light work on the neck.
What If You Prefer Not to Talk at All?
Agree your number at the start and then relax in silence. Many guests like a quiet session. Tell your therapist you would rather not chat, and that you will speak up only if something is too much. A simple raised hand works too.
Why Guests Choose Lathika Spa for Getting the Pressure Right
Five quick checks before you book.
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Ajman DED Licence No. 114732, rated 4.9 from 944 Google reviews.
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Meet the therapistsOne Written Price
One price for every style. Nothing added at the end.
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Al Rawda 3, Ajman. Free parking nearby.
Get directionsFacts at a Glance
- Topic
- Getting the Pressure Right
- Best for
- Guests who are unsure how to ask for firmer or lighter pressure
- Price
- AED 99 / 60 min · AED 150 / 90 min
- Hours
- Open 24 hours, 7 days
Questions on This Topic
Is it rude to ask a therapist for less pressure?
Not at all. Adjusting it is a normal part of every session, and therapists would much rather you tell them than leave unhappy.
What does medium pressure mean?
On a 1 to 10 scale, medium is about 5: you can feel the muscles being worked, but you could easily fall asleep. Firm is around 7 to 8: strong, but you can still breathe normally and stay relaxed.