Not recommending it, just saying its not gunna kill you
The spring compression might not be much on the Golf, but its difficult (impossible) to judge.
I worked in the motor trade for a good few years, and I'd never advocate releasing top mounts without using compressors. It might look like the risk of harm isn't that great, but it doesn't take a lot to go wrong and you've lost an eye or worse.
Anything that is compressed needs handling with care - springs, air, whatever.
A set of compressors isn't a lot of money at all compared to even the slightest risk of losing your sight!
