There are different types of meditation and different ways / goals of meditation. Having sampled several types including Buddhist meditation, I would describe it as a form of mind training where you screen the thoughts in your mind before engaging them. You screen the thoughts for being positive and negative and only engage the positive thoughts as negative thoughts are harmful. There is also a relaxation part of it where, when thoughts arise, you focus on your breath rather on the thoughts. This enables the mind (and, to a great extent, the body) to relax. It also helps people to stay and live in the present rather than getting caught up in thoughts about the past or the future. When those thoughts come up, just return to your breath - the act of breathing takes place in the present moment and therefore, you are encouraging yourself to live in the present moment rather than in the internal world of your thoughts.

There are enhancements to meditation such as chanting, controlled breathing exercises (prana), staring at the floor or at a lit candle (this worked for me). Buddhist centers are good for learning meditation. There are different types of Buddhism and techniques vary. For some, you have to sit on a pillow. Others will let you sit on a chair (which I prefer since I have a bad back). Some places will burn incense to set the mood. There may be statues and offerings. I used to like the dharma talks which would set the tone of the meditation. Some Buddhist centers even offer secular meditation. Meditation is an instrinsic part of Buddhist religious practice. Since Buddhism is a worship of the teachings of the Buddha and not of a god, I would see Christian priests and other religious people partaking in the meditations. My old Catholic church had a meditation club.

There are a lot of benefits to meditation and it's worth exploring. It is a great alternative to tranquilizers!