Swedish massage is the style that comes to mind when most people think about massage.  It was developed in Stockholm a couple of centuries ago and is the most common and best-known type form of bodywork performed today.

The goal is relaxing the entire body and this is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart.  Additional techniques include circular pressure applied by the hands and palms, firm kneading, percussion-like tapping, bending and stretching.  Lotion is often used to reduce friction and stimulate the skin.  Swedish massage is exceptional for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.

Deep tissue massage is similar to Swedish massage but it is used to target knots and release chronic muscle tension.  Other benefits of Deep Tissue Massage includes reducing inflammation and helping to eliminate scar tissue.  The focus is on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia (the protective layer surrounding muscles, bones and joints).

Deep tissue massage uses strokes across the grain of the muscles, not with the grain as in Swedish massage.  The more intense movements and techniques such as deep finger pressure may be slightly uncomfortable and cause soreness that lasts a couple of days before resulting in the desired relaxation and pain relief.

Sports massage is geared toward athletes of every kind, from world-class professionals to weekend joggers.  The particulars of the massage are specific to the athlete’s sport of choice and are often focused on a particular troublesome area like a knee or shoulder.

Aspects of massage are gaining popularity as useful components in a balanced training regimen.  Sports massage can be used as a means to enhance pre-event preparation and reduce recovery time for maximum performance during training or after an event.  Athletes have discovered that specially designed massage promotes flexibility, removes fatigue, improves endurance, helps prevent injuries, and prepares them to compete at their absolute best.

Why Massage During Pregnancy?
Massage during pregnancy offers undeniable physical benefits. At In8 Massage, our professional massage therapists will work to stimulate your lymphatic system, increasing immunity and the removal of excess toxins, while also stabilizing hormonal levels and balancing the glandular system. Hormonal changes can cause depression and anxiety during pregnancy, which is why many expecting mothers can find relief at In8 Massage.

Benefits Of Prenatal Massage
Massage therapy is a wonderful, complimentary choice for prenatal care and a healthy way to reduce stress and promote general well-being. In8 Massage's professional therapists work to relieve the normal discomforts experienced during pregnancy, such as backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches, joint pain, and edema. In addition, by relaxing nervous tension, you can experience a better night’s sleep. Below are examples of how massage can benefit you during your pregnancy: 

What is a Hot Stone Massage?

Here at In8 Massage we offer the Hot Stone Massage. Hot Stone Massage is a variation on classic massage therapy. It is a specialty massage that uses smooth, flat, heated stones placed on key points on the body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. The heat is both deeply relaxing and helps tight muscles relax.

What can I expect during my Hot Stone Massage?

Before you arrive at In8 Massage, the stones are sanitized by the therapist and then started in the heating process. The massage therapist warms up the body with a traditional Swedish Massage starting with you lying face down. Often, the therapist begins the Hot Stone Massage by applying oil to the body, which allows the hot stones to glide smoothly along the muscles. As the stones cool down, the therapist will replace it with another. The therapist may also leave heated stones in specific points along your spine, in the palms of your hand, on your belly, or even between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body.

Always remember, speak up if the stones are too hot. The therapists here at In8 Massage hold the stones before touching them to your body to ensure the temperature will not be too hot. Everyone, however, has their own comfort range when it comes to temperatures.