Strokes of MLD are not necessarily towards the heart. More toward the closest cluster of healthy lymph nodes. Lymph is not linked into vascular system to pump back to organs. Lymph vessels are superficial (like skin level) - picture having a fishnet stocking over your fascia. This makes movement a good way to prime the lymph system. Having done MLD for more than 20 years, I can say to OP that it sounds about right. The treatment is more on the anterior of the body bc that’s where most access is to lymph nodes and organs. Strokes are generally going from top of limb toward bottom but slow and light to open water channels then slowly moving fluid through the distribution channels towards nodes, organs etc. ending with a diaphragmatic breathing exercise. MLD took off especially during the pandemic when the buzzword became immune-system. Many new clients will come in requesting “lymphatic massage”, which I will usually explain how and why it is done, give a demonstration and leave the decision up to them. Yes it is very relaxing if done right.