Casting a magical circle

Before performing a spell you need to create a magical space to work within. This is done by casting a magic circle.

There are many ways you can cast a magic circle, there is no one correct way to do it. You can draw a circle out with your minds finger or create a physical circle using for example candles.

A magic circle protects you from negative effects and acts as an amplifier of your magic work.

You as a witch can develop your own way of performing any magic. You can use this method as a guide and if you come across something that you would like to do differently, you are free to change it to best suit you.

Step 1.

Choose a place where you won’t be disturbed, preferably flat and clean.

Step 2.

Find the four cardinal points and mark them out. Many smartphones have a compass, you can use this if you don’t already know how to find them.

Step 3.

Place an elemental representation at the four cardinal points.

Earth is represented at the north point.

Air is represented at the east point.

Fire is represented at the south point.

Water is represented at the west Point.

A representation of Earth could be for example: a rock, a crystal, soil, a potted plant or a ceramic dish.

A representation of air could be a feather, a burning incense stick or sage bundle.

A representation of fire could be a be a candle or essential oils burned with a tea light.

A representation of water could be a sea shell or a chalice with water in it.

Step 4.

Face east from the centre of your circle. Calm your mind and body by taking several relaxed breaths until you feel grounded, calm, centred and present in the moment. Feel the air on your skin and visualise wind blowing around you. Walk clockwise around your circle and simply say: “Spirits of Air, I call on you.”

Turn to face South. Visualise a burning crackling fire under a hot midday sun. Feel the warmth on your skin. Walk clockwise around your circle and simply say: “Spirits of Fire, I call on you.”

Turn so you’re facing west. Visualise water. Waves and waterfalls, streams and rivers. Feel the rain on your skin. Walk clockwise around your circle and simply say: “Spirits of Water, I call on you.”

Turn to the north. Think of the smell of earth after rain and the sensation of walking with your bare feet on the ground. Feel the roots underneath you hold your feet steady on the ground. Walk clockwise around your circle and simply say: “Spirits of Earth, I call on you.”

Step 5.

Wait a moment and say:

"I cast this circle embracing power and strength


It is to be a place between the realms


For all whom can sense the thinning of the veil and worship the Old Gods."

Step 6.

Perform your magic.

Step 7.

After the magic work is done, give thanks to the elements for their presence by facing in each direction, feeling in tune with each element and saying (each in turn):

“Water/Fire/Air/Earth, I thank you for your presence.”

Step 8.

Still facing north, give thanks to Mother Earth below by saying: “Mother Earth, accept my gratitude for your presence.”

Give thanks to Father Sky above by saying: “Father Sky, accept my gratitude for your presence.”

Step 9.

And after a moment, say, “The circle is open, but never broken. The love of the Goddess is forever in my heart. Merry meet, and merry part, and merry meet again.”

Step 10.

Feel the magical energy that you raised being released into the universe and trust in your heart that your magic is complete and will do its work.

This particular method is developed by The Nordic Witch

Find me on Instagram @the_nordic_witch for more inspiration and guidance.

Love. Light. Blessings.