1) Arterial blood flow is the oxygen-rich blood that
is being pumped from your lungs through the
arteries, out to your cells. The heart acts as a pump
to move the arterial blood out to the limbs. It
carries oxygen and nutrients for use by various
cells types. Arterial circulation is increased
by massage, however, a specific circulatory
massage method may be indicated when hands or feet
need increased blood flow or at other times when
an increase in circulation is desirable.

2) Venous blood flow is the path the blood takes back
to the lungs to become oxygenated. It travels
through the veins by way of a valve system
(rather than by your beating heart). Massage strokes,
primarily on the limbs, follow venous
flow to facilitate circulation and protect the
valve system in the veins.

3) Lymphatic fluid is responsible for waste disposal
and immune response. The fluid travels in one
direction, gathering and filtering lymph and
returning it to the venous system. The lymphatic
fluid travels through the body by the pumping action
of muscles. Massage and exercise increase the flow of lymph,
resulting in increased immune response.
Swedish massage encourages the flow of lymph and can aid
in reduction of swelling.

NOTE: Lymphatic drainage is a very specific modality.
For lymphedema issues, please consult with a trained Lymphatic Drainage Therapist.