It is an empowering practice, which is why both Jedi Knights and Sith Lords practice meditation. According to the Jedi Order, Jedi Meditation is essential for self-discipline. Indeed, the Council of the Order created a five-sessions-a-day meditation training program for initiates and advises Padawans to meditate as much as possible
Jedi Meditation is also heavily influenced by Taoism, a religion based on being true to our real nature, living in harmony with the universe, and cultivating chi (the energy that “The Force” is based on).
Combine Zen with Taoism and you get the philosophy of Stat Wars, encompassing everything from The Force to Jedi meditations, most of which are taught by Yoda.