What movement should precede lifting hands from the face of a client?

Feathering is a gentle, light, and superficial stroke that is often used to transition between techniques in massage therapy. Before lifting hands from the face of a client, using feathering allows the therapist to gradually decrease pressure and intensity. This technique helps to create a sense of comfort and continuity for the client, as it prepares them for the next phase of the treatment. The soft and delicate nature of feathering also encourages relaxation and signals to the client that the therapist is transitioning away from direct contact, making it an ideal movement prior to removing hands from the face.

In contrast, other techniques such as vibration, tapotement, and effleurage are more vigorous or distinct movements that may not provide the same smooth transition. While they each have their benefits in a massage setting, they do not serve the specific purpose of delicately preparing a client for the lifting of hands, which makes feathering the most appropriate choice in this context.