Glow Effect [LensEffect]

I wanted to learn how to create a glow effect on an object, specifically a sphere much like the energy balls used in 'DragonBallZ'. I found a tutorial and here is the outcome.

First I created a sphere for the glow effect to be added to.

I then started creating the material for the sphere that would add the base colour for the glow. I chose a medium blue because the 'energy' used in DragonBallZ is normally blue. I added self illumination which gave the sphere a normal glow.

Now the glow effect. I went into 'Environment' and added a Lens Effect known as 'Glow'. I could then play around with the settings to make the glow large or small, bright or dull etc.

 

I enjoyed learning this technique and the outcome is good, but I want to find something that is more similar to the finished article I am looking for.