Eye Contact Dublin is a simple, quiet group where we practise holding eye contact with another person, without talking and without looking away. It sounds easy. It isn't, and that's the point.
Most of us find steady eye contact surprisingly hard. We fill the silence, glance away, laugh, or fidget. Practising it in a calm, structured setting builds the ability to stay present: to face another person, or a difficult moment, calmly instead of looking away from it. Over time, that steadiness tends to show up in the rest of life too.
What happens in a session
Short rounds that get longer
00:10
Arrive and settle. Quick introductions, how it works, and the ground rules.
02:00
First round. Pair up and sit facing each other about an arm's length apart. Eyes open, look at your partner, and simply stay there.
05:00
Swap partners, go longer. Notice the urge to look away, smile or shift, and let it pass.
10:00
Longer rounds for anyone who wants them. Shorter rounds are always fine.
00:15
Talk it over. A relaxed chat at the end about what you noticed and what's got easier. Nobody has to share, but it's good to hear how people are getting on.
Ground rules
Simple and respectful
You can stop or sit out a round at any time, no explanation needed.
No touching, no commentary on each other during rounds.
It's practice, not therapy, and not affiliated with any religion, movement or organisation.
Phones away during rounds.
Questions
Do I need to bring a partner?
No. Most people come on their own, and we rotate partners each round.
What if I find it really uncomfortable?
Most people do at first. Start with short rounds, and sit out whenever you like.
Who is it for?
Anyone over 18 who wants to feel more at ease with people. No experience needed.
What does it cost?
Your first session is free. After that it's €10 a session, or €40 for five, paid at the door. It covers the room and keeps the group going.
Want to come along?
Your first session is free. Drop us an email to say you're coming, so we can plan the pairs. On the day, take the lift or stairs to Level 5 of the LexIcon and look for Meeting Room 3. The library is a 5-minute walk from Dún Laoghaire DART station.