PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your low-pressure return routes

VEINS

Veins are like the return roads of your circulatory system, carrying blood back to the heart. Unlike arteries, they operate under lower pressure and have valves to prevent blood from flowing backward.

  • Return oxygen-poor blood from the body back to the heart

  • Prevent backflow using one-way valves

  • Help regulate blood volume and pressure

  • Assist with temperature regulation by directing blood flow near or away from the skin

VEIN BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for vein-related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Vein - Blood vessel carrying blood toward the heart (usually oxygen-poor)

Vena Cava - The largest veins, returning blood to the heart from the body

Jugular Veins - Veins in the neck returning blood from the head

Venules - Small branches of veins that collect blood from capillaries

Valve - One-way flap that prevents backward flow of blood

WHAT THE VEINS WORKS WITH

veins + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Capillaries → Collect blood after it has exchanged oxygen and nutrients with tissues

  2. Heart → Receives blood from veins to be pumped again

  3. Muscles → Muscle contractions help push blood through veins toward the heart

  4. Valves → Keep blood moving in the right direction

  5. Nervous System → Signals veins to constrict or dilate as needed for circulation and blood pressure

HealthY VEINS…


Healthy arteries keep blood flowing smoothly under pressure, delivering oxygen and nutrients efficiently. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and avoiding smoking support strong, flexible arteries.