I use the Ax Method and find it helps me to speed up the outcome. I can get thru the progression quicker this way.
As far as back or forth, I try to cut down on that. If I'm doing edge trailing it's very lightly. I know at the lower grits it does help get the bevel set much faster. I also find killing the edge lightly and then going back to the last stone for just a few laps before moving to the next stone is what works best for me.

So I'm with ya on this way if honing Marty. Synthetic or natural. It just works! That's my opinion.