Eye Gymnastics

Eye tracking

Figure eight

Trace a horizontal figure eight (infinity sign) with your eyes as the dot loops across the screen.

  • 60 seconds
  • Medium

Sit about an arm’s length from the screen. Keep your head still and use only your eyes.

The figure eight, also called the infinity sign or lemniscate, is one of the most popular eye exercises. A dot traces a horizontal 8 lying on its side: two loops, one on the left and one on the right, joined in the middle. You keep your head still and follow the dot with your eyes. Each loop combines horizontal, vertical and diagonal movement, and at the crossing point in the centre the direction of rotation reverses.

That change of rotation is what makes the figure eight more interesting than a simple circle: your eyes cannot settle into a single repetitive pattern. Many people find the flowing, continuous movement calming, and it is a good way to pull your attention away from work for a minute. Once you are comfortable with it, you can try the upright vertical figure eight or the butterfly.

Figure-eight tracking is sometimes promoted with exaggerated claims, such as improving eyesight or curing reading problems. There is no good evidence for this. What it can honestly offer is a relaxing break, practice in smooth pursuit and a little extra coordination work. Children with reading difficulties should have a proper vision assessment rather than rely on exercises.

How to do it

  1. Sit centred in front of the screen; full-screen mode works best.
  2. Pick slow speed for your first round and press start.
  3. Follow the dot through both loops of the eight with your eyes only.
  4. Pay attention to the crossing point in the middle and stay smooth there.
  5. Blink softly whenever the reminder appears.
  6. Finish with a few seconds of closed eyes or a look into the distance.

What it helps with

  • Flowing, continuous movement that many people find calming
  • Practises changes of rotation direction
  • Engages attention more than a simple circle
  • A pleasant one-to-two-minute screen break

Tips

  • Let your breathing slow down to the rhythm of the loops.
  • If the centre crossing feels jerky, reduce the speed.
  • Try alternating with the vertical eight for variety.

Caution: Stop if you feel dizzy, sick, or have pain or double vision. If you have a squint, nystagmus, retinal disease or recent eye surgery, ask your eye doctor before doing eye exercises.

Frequently asked questions

Does the figure eight improve reading?

There is no solid evidence that it improves reading skills. Reading difficulties should be assessed by an eye care professional and, if needed, a learning specialist.

What is a lemniscate?

It is the mathematical name for the figure-eight or infinity-shaped curve the dot follows.

How long should I do it?

One to two minutes is ideal. Use it as part of a short break rather than a long workout.