A circle creates a high energy space where spells and Magick can be performed without interruptions. This concentrates your intentions in one place.Usually, circles of protection are created before invoking spirits or external forces. If you know you’ll be working with elemental energies or forces that are beyond your control, the circle will channel and ground your energy.

Circles of Protection come in different shapes and sizes. Casting a circle of protection is a great way to start a ritual and to induce the perfect mindset before casting a spell.

For the majority of practitioners it’s about visualising a circle.You don’t need a circle for every ritual, but it’s a way to create a sacred space, blessed by the Elements, in which to work your Magic. Calling the quarters is a way to purify the space and invite protection into your ritual.

The most convenient thing is to cast a Circle big enough so you can move comfortably. If you only need space for yourself, a good rule of thumb is to make a circle large enough so that you can extend both arms. If you’re going to stand or move, or if the ritual includes something like an altar or more people, you’ll need a bigger circle.You can help visualise the area you’ll be using by placing stones, or using chalk, a rope, sand or candles to indicate the limits of your ritual circle. If you’re in a small area then the walls are a perfect border to your “circle”. Always remember that salt can be dangerous to the environment and animals if you’re casting outside.

Your circle must be clean to symbolise its spiritual purity and integrity, and so that it can keep you safe. It’s important that it is physically clean, and free of any negative energies. Some methods to do this include lightly brushing the ground with a ritual broom, lighting some incense, spreading salt or salt water, and playing a musical instrument such as a drum or a bell.

When you have your area ready, set your altar. Remember that you can use any table or surface, you don’t need to buy anything special. You could even just place a piece of cloth on the ground and that will do just fine. Your altar and tools will usually be located in the centre of the circle, but you can put them wherever you think will be more comfortable.

After placing the altar, you can place some candles and other materials to represent the Elements. The idea is to be clear about where each cardinal point is to avoid confusion when making an evocation.

To Draw the Circle.

You can draw the circle of protection in the air using your wand. If you don’t have one, simply use your finger. Keep in mind that the tool you use does not have to touch the ground.

Breathe in and relax. Visualise your protective energy building up from within you with every breath. Direct all this energy towards your dominant arm and hand. Now focus on your casting tool and visualise the stream of energy coming out of it and settling on the ground.Visualise how the circle closes around you. No matter what method you use, it is fundamental that you visualise the dispersion and total elimination of negative energies.

Next summon the four Elements and Directions (East, South, West, North), You can cast your circle by setting your elements facing towards each direction. You can do this as follows:

To the North, the Element Earth

A bowl of salt / soil / leaf / twig can represent this element.

To the South, the Element Fire

A candle will symbolise Fire and will bring you extra protection.

To the West, the Element Water

A glass of water will symbolise it. You could also use a seashell.

To the East, the Element Air

Light some incense and place it facing East. You could also use a feather.

Finally, you can raise both arms above your head and say the following:“I ask God and the Goddess (whichever you are calling to help you, I summon Lilith, Hecate and Gaia) to bless this circle.Within it, I am free and protected. So be it.

Now you are ready to proceed with any spell or ritual.

Once you are done with your spellcasting work, it is time to open the circle. Be respectful with those Deities or spirits of Nature that you have summoned. Do not forget to thank them for their presence and honor the help they have given you.

Now it’s time to blow out or snuff off the candles.

A simple way to cast your circle open is to use your wand or finger again. Hold it in your hand as you turn the opposite way you did it before, neutralising the trace of the previous circle. You could say:

“The circle is open but never broken.”

After this, you can leave the circle of protection.

If your summoning outside don’t forget to take all your belongings with you and leave the area as you found it.