I know you're addressing HF, but if you don't mind, I'd like to offer you some advice: I too, have had problems at that stage, and the technique I mentioned usually works for me, providing I've saved up enough available spiritual/emotional energy.  Who knows, it might work for you too.

Your exit sensation may be different though. I've felt a POP, and also felt my "etheric" body "peeling" away from my physical body. The latter exit feels slightly creepy.