If you want to work out knots, relieve aches and pains, or just loosen up muscles, I can apply the right pressue to accomplish your goal. A good massage is all about communication, and I want to know how much pressure to apply. A massage can already be a vulnerable experience, so the question of how much pressure I should apply can be tough to answer, expecially given that everyone experiences pressure differently. Fortunately, there are basically three possible responses– light, midium, or firm–and considering the following factors may help you decide.