Sacred Space

What exactly is sacred space? Why or when does one need to create it? How do you create sacred space? Share with us an formal or informal ways that you create sacred space. Circle casting can be very formal or very simple (with all the gradations in between). If you do so, when do you do a formal cast; when do you do a simple cast? Please share with us the different ways you cast a circle.

I generally only use "sacred space" when I'm doing ritual. I think of sacred space as a "cleansed" space, a space which is devoted to special purpose. A sacred space can be created or it can be found naturally. I think it's a matter of feel.

I'm lucky enough to have a small room in our house that is used for two purposes: (1) ironing and (2) "witchiness." So I feel comfortable in not casting a circle every time I want to do a little something. It's nice to be able to leave my supplies out and leave up an altar.

In the simplest circle I cast, I call the quarters with my wand or I meditate to call them in and visualize a sphere of energy that goes above me and under the floor. I do my thing and then release them/it. Sometimes I'll just focus on whatever element I'm working with. If I'm casting an air spell, I might face east and light some incense and do nothing else, casting-wise. It's usually more a matter of time and personal energy than anything else.

My most complicated circle casting involves that plus outlining the circle with the elements (salt, incense, a red candle and water) and the athame. It's kind of a pain in the ass to do that every time though. Sometimes I just want to perform something simple and it feels silly to go through a grand casting ceremony (and uncasting after). But for Sabbats and for added spell strength, I prefer to cast a more complicated circle. It's also a nice way to ease into spellcasting.

I think that circle casting is like foreplay: it's nice, it can add a lot to the subsequent experience and sometimes it's enough in itself. However, it's not always necessary. Sometimes I just want to get to the next stage without a lot of pomp and circumstance. The end result is pretty much the same and sometimes I just want to hurry up so I can go to sleep.