Researchers at UCLA have found that simply thinking about what's important to you can decrease the negative effects of stress.

Though it really seems too easy, the study revealed that people who reflect on the personal values, ideas, accomplishments, qualities and/or relationships that bring them joy or satisfaction have lower cortisol levels. An excessive amount of the hormone cortisol contributes to stress-related illnesses.

David Creswell, the psychology graduate student who led the study – published in the November issue of The Journal of Psychological Science [paid members only] – says the findings are the first of their kind.