You can cast the circle in a number of ways. One of the easiest ways is to visualise a sphere of white or blue light forming around you and spreading out in a large circle. You should see the circle as a globe, which is all around you, above and below. Some Witches draw a circle with chalk or salt, and sweep it clean in a deosil (clockwise or sunwise) direction with their besom (ritual broom), or cleanse the area of negativity with sage incense.
The circle can be cast physically, with and athame, sword, or wand, if you have one, or your finger if necessary. In each case, you should visualise a white or blue light. It can be cast deosil from north to north or east to east depending on your technique. If you wish, you can mark off the point of north with a brown or green candle, east with a yellow candle, south with a red candle and west with a blue candle, but plane white candles will do if you choose to use any at all.
So this is that basis for creating a sacred space. There are also other shapes which can be used other than the circle, and each shape is used for different types of magic. The circle is all-purpose though. The triangle is a symbol of manifestation. It will increase anything put into it including energy. The three is symbolic of multiplicity, creative power, and growth.
The square is a stabilizing force. It grounds and focuses the physiological system. It is wholeness and totality and also represents the physical plane. It symbolizes the 4 elements and the emotions of compassion, affection, love, and fairness.
The diamond is not for the novice or neophyte. It is utilized best by the masters and those who know and understand energy. Only those who work with energy on a continual basis, like healers, should attempt candle burning in this arrangement. The diamond layout is used when one wants to create new forms and applications. It is solely for those who have studied intensely and know how to work with energies in their raw and natural states. Do not use the diamond unless you know what you are doing.
The five-point star is the foremost symbol of divine, celestial presentation and symbolizes the highest attainment in the heavens. The upper point of the pentagram, when pointing up, shows the triumph of spirit over matter. The four lower points are assigned to the four elements. An upside-down pentagram symbolizes triumph of matter over spirit, or of base desires over refined sensibilities. When the pentagram is used during magic, it strengthens the energy. It fortifies all within it and creates a higher spiritual field. Visions are a possible manifestation within the pentagram.
These are just a few of the possible shapes which can be used to create a sacred space.
There are several methods of raising energy to be used in magic. The method commonly used by Witches is the Cone of Power.
The Cone of Power is one of the methods of working magic, and refers to a technique for focusing energy within a magical circle. The circle acts as both lens and container for the energy of an individual or group, creating a "cone" shape before being released for particular purpose.
But why a cone? The cone is the shape of energy perceived by those sensitive to the energy currents. Churches also make use of this shape to direct energy heavenwards, with steeples situated over the altar, the nexus of energy raised by the congregation, concentrated by the priest and released. The Witches' hat is a reminder of the shape of this energy.
The basic energy is that of the human body, increased and channeled in accordance with Will, although with experience, and practice, it is possible to draw on the energies of the earth and moon. Dancing and chanting is a popular way of raising the energy within the circle, and it’s fun too. however, if dancing is not possible, there is a more mental and psychic way of raising energy
One method is this:
Sit or stand with your eyes closed and visualise the sphere around you as a shining silver light. Now imagine the silver energy within the sphere begin to spin and swirl. as you do this, add your own energy to that of the circle by visualising a shining light from your heart going out and mingling with it. with this, put all your will and intent of the spell or ritual into the energy in the same way. do this for a few minutes until you feel ready to continue. Now, let the energy around you spin faster and faster within the sphere. as you're reading this you should be getting a picture in your mind as to what it should be like. It is exactly the same, only with a bit more focus. That is all there is to visualising: picturing it in your mind. If you can't do it at first, stay calm and let it come to you. as you practice, visualisation becomes easier. I also find that reading through rituals helps, even if you aren’t performing them because you are still going through it in your mind.
Now, by this time, the energy and your intent should be swirling fast around you. Now, slowly let this energy rise up but getting narrower as you do so the energy becomes concentrated. Let this continue until all the energy has formed a cone shape above you, swirling faster and faster. Feel the energy and force, become excited with it, there's no need to stay calm at this point. Now, when you feel that you can't hold it anymore, let the energy be released in a burst of silver light streaming out into the universe (this is great if you are outside at night). Your spell is now sent out to the universe to work your will and manifest in time.
~Disclaimer...None of this is mine, I copy-pasted it from:
http://www.geocities.com/phoenix_mystic159/Lessons3.html 
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