In many eclectic spiritual practices, it is common to cast a circle, or bless an area before beginning any kind of Divine work, meeting with Spirit, or just giving praise. Often times, when creating that sacred space, or making an area 'clean' (energy wise) and protecting it from outside forces and energies; people will usually call in the four directions. 
While reading Tanya Paluso's book Open Your Heart, I came across a beautifully written section about calling in the four directions and setting intentions before doing anykind of spiritual work.