So the push is in the direction of air flow. That makes more sense now. In my mind I was pushing on Herman's head from the chamber side and pushing upstream against the air flow.
When I “push” from the valve side I am widening. When I “push” from the pinch side I am lowering. Both make area and start my shaping so I can send airflow towards the center of the cylinder. Gotta always think past the head on both ends. Which way is air entering. Which way do I want air to exit. One isn’t controllable and one is. When you get this you will say wholly crap why didn’t I see this.