What is the recommended manner to commence the Tahajjud (night) prayer?

Primary text

It is recommended that one commences the Tahajjud prayer with two light rak'ahs (units of prayer). This is established by the report from Abu Hurayrah, upon whom Allah is pleased, that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "When any one of you stands up at night, let him commence his prayer with two light rak'ahs." Furthermore, a narration from Zayd ibn Khalid details the Prophet's prayer sequence, including the initial two light rak'ahs before proceeding to longer prayers, totaling thirteen rak'ahs in that instance.