The first step to achieving successful meditation is breathing 
correctly. Deep, filling breaths are a must, and try to visualize 
that your breaths are grounded in the center of your being, and the 
oxygen is extending throughout your body to your extremities. Close 
your eyes as you breathe, and listen just to the sound of the air as 
you inhale and exhale. Imagine that with every inhalation you take in 
serenity in the form of white mist, and with every exhalation you 
expel the stress, unhappiness, anxiety and other unpleasantness in the 
form of a dense dark cloud. 

Sit cross-legged, or with your back supported well, or stretch out 
prone or on your back. Allow your muscles to unwind, and your joints 
to slacken. When your breathing is even and deep, and your body feels 
limp and comfortable, it is time to tackle the task of emptying your 
mind of stressful, harried thoughts. Some find it useful to picture 
your mind as a blackboard, and all the thoughts swimming therein as 
writing in chalk. As you picture your hand wiping the chalk off the 
board, let go of each thought, until the blackboard--and hopefully, 
your mind--is clear. 

How you choose to proceed is a matter of personal choice. I enjoy 
imagining a journey to a fantasy world, taking in every sight, sound 
and smell as I do. This enhances my creativity and gives me a feeling 
of "escaping" from day-to-day life. Some people prefer guided 
meditation, oft listening to a voice recording on tape guiding their 
thoughts through the meditation process. Some prefer to leave their 
mind blank, and to heighten their senses, paying particular attention
to the environment (this works very well in a natural setting). 

A few miscellaneous tools that are oft handy in meditating 
successfully are incense, music, and pillows. Soothing incense 
(nothing jarring or overpowering) can be uplifting and can enhance 
your surroundings, particularly if you are indoors. Quiet background 
music can help to clear the mind and calm the nerves. In particular, 
look for New Age music--harps, strings, and gentle vocals are best. 
Soft pillows are excellent to prevent cramping or soreness from hard 
floors (if indoors) or bumpy terrain (if outdoors). 

Most important to meditating successfully is finding a method that 
works best for you. Everyone has different needs and different tastes. 
Experiment with many styles, and invent your own! When you find the 
perfect route to achieving tranquility, you will know-and you will 
feel purely serene, and better prepared to deal with whatever life may
 bring. Be patient, it usually takes much practice to achieve 
successful meditation.