What is the proper procedure for removing one's Tefillin, according to the custom of the Sephardim?
1) One first stands and unravels the strap of the Tefillin Shel Yad (the Tefillin worn on the arm) from the middle finger (3 wrappings), and then the first two or three wrappings from around the arm.
2) Still standing, one then removes his Tefillin Shel Rosh (the Tefillin worn on the head) with his weaker hand: a right-handed person uses his left hand, and a left-handed person uses his right hand. One uses specifically the weaker hand to show that he is not rushing to end his performance of this Mitzva. At this point one may either fold the Tefillin Shel Rosh or leave it unfolded until after the next step.
3) Finally, one should sit, remove his Tefillin Shel Yad, and then fold the Tefillin. It is proper to fold one's Tefillin himself, rather than have somebody else fold it for him.
One must ensure to remove his Tefillin before removing his Tallit. When removing one's Tallit – like when removing Tefillin – it is preferable to use one's weaker hand, to demonstrate that he is not hurrying to end his performance of the Mitzva.
