Researchers Pinpoint Where Patience Comes From

Patience is a virtue, or so the saying goes. According to the latest research, however, the attribute could have a lot more to do with brain chemistry than personal fortitude. Experts have been working to unravel the secrets behind patience and where it originates in the brain, and their discoveries have all led back to one neurotransmitter. How's your patience?

Pinpointing Patience in the Brain

Most of us would like to think we have the patience we need to wait out the tough times or to remain calm when things are frustrating. But it might not be so simple as being predisposed toward this trait. At least, according to the latest research.

A study on rats has found that when there is increased serotonin in certain areas of the brain impulsive behavior is reduced and this, in turn, allows the animal to wait longer for promised treats. Other research has shown that when the animals are deprived of serotonin activity in the same areas, their ability to demonstrate patience in this situation declines.

A closer look at these features in humans may offer new routes for understanding and treating issues that affect impulse control and our ability to delay gratification. What’s more, there are ways each of us can naturally boost our own serotonin levels and possibly improve on these fronts. 

Natural Serotonin Boosters

We can increase our serotonin levels in a few different ways. The easiest, at least during warmer months, is to get a little sunlight exposure each day. Just the light itself appears to trigger serotonin synthesis which is great, but the vitamin D production sunlight promotes also appears to be a factor.

Meditation may also help. And exercise, which causes the body to produce tryptophan (one of the building blocks for making serotonin), is another good option. Even working on personal changes to improve attitude and outlook could make a difference such as with cognitive behavioral therapy. Studies have shown that we might actually rewire our brains to produce more serotonin simply by making more effort to be happy. But if we can't figure that out right at the outset because it's hard to motivate for these things without having the serotonin to help us get there, then exercise, sunlight, and meditation are three great places to start.

Our ability to be patient may depend on our brains’ chemicals, but we still have some control. Taking extra measures to increase our serotonin levels could help, with the added benefit of boosting the mood so what's to lose? Remember to check in with a doctor before starting a new fitness routine, though. 

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