1. Create Sacred Space
There are two basic steps to creating sacred space:
a.Cleanse the space
Cleansing of space doesn't necessarily mean phsyical cleansing (although that helps!) but psychic and spiritual cleansing of any stray energies in the area that you may not want taking part in your ritual. This is done in many ways, sprinkling of water (asperging), sweeping with a besom, or cleansing using incense of some kind. b. Caste the Circle
- Call the quarters / directions / elements / elementals
The next step to creating your sacred space is to caste a circle. Circle casting is creating a spiritual, psychic, "bubble" around your working area. The purpose for this is to contain magickal energies within the space until you wish to release them, and also to protect yourself from mingling with unwanted energies that may be drawn to your work.
In order to caste a circle you need to visualize this protective barrier and call the energies of the elements to protect your space and join you in your work
2. Bless / Cleanse or annoint yourself
Annointing yourself with sacred oil, or blessed water helps you to focus on your intent and put you in the spiritual frame of mind. You can make your own blessing oil, or use water mixed with a little salt. When I bless myself I like to draw the shape of the pentagram on my forehead. Other shapes which are meaningful to you may be used.
3. Raise Energy
Raising energy is just that... performing some act which creates a build up of focused positive energy within the circle. Again this helps you to create that altered state of consiousness which connects you with the divine, or which is required for the work at hand. I like to drum or use my rattle. You can also try a chant of some kind, dance, or play other musical instruments.
4. Invoke Deity or "Draw Down the Moon"
"Drawing down the Moon" is a beautiful ceremony in which we connect with the Goddess and take in her energy.
5. Work that needs to be done
Drawing Down the Moon may be a work unto itself, but this is also the time which would be used for spell work.
