Even Teachers Need Teachers: Reflections from the Annual Ki Gong Clinic
- Nicholas Acri
- Oct 6
- 2 min read
How a weekend in the Pocono Mountains deepened my practice and reminded me of the power of community
This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending my first Annual Ki Gong Clinic, held at the Kirkridge Retreat Center and the Columcille Megalith Park in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.
The setting itself was breathtaking: crisp fall air, trees just beginning to turn, and peaceful grounds that invited both stillness and discovery. From the very first warm-up and meditation outside overlooking the valley, I knew this was going to be something special.
A Welcoming Community
The clinic brought together a wonderful mix of instructors and students — some martial artists, others dedicated solely to Ki Gong. Some were familiar faces, others brand new.
The openness and warmth of the group immediately set me at ease. What could have felt overwhelming instead became energizing. I felt both supported and challenged in ways that opened me up to growth.
Moments of Growth
Every session offered something valuable, but one that stood out was a deep dive into the Eight Pieces of Brocade. Though I already practice and teach this set, hearing its origin story and experiencing an older version helped me connect more deeply to it. That experience directly influenced the set I taught later that same day.
Other sessions highlighted areas of personal growth. Walking the labyrinth revealed truths about myself — my tendency to second-guess and to put others ahead of myself. A body-awareness session challenged me with unstructured, free-flow movement, which is something I’ve always been uncomfortable with. Both experiences reminded me that letting go and simply allowing are just as important as structure and discipline.
The Teacher as Student
One of the biggest lessons I brought home is that I need to give myself more credit for how I’ve integrated Ki Gong into my martial arts teaching. Interacting with other instructors showed me that I’m already on a strong path — and at times, I was able to offer them new perspectives as well.
Yet the clinic also reminded me how much more there is to explore. That’s the beauty of community: peers spark curiosity, provide accountability, and help us see where we can grow next.
Carrying It Forward
I left the weekend rejuvenated and inspired. Some concepts will show up immediately in my classes, from new ways of weaving Ki Gong into martial arts drills to sparring applications inspired by the push-hands session.
More importantly, I left with a clearer sense of direction for my own practice — and a renewed appreciation for the importance of community.
A Final Thought
If there’s one lesson I carried home, it’s this: even teachers must remain students. Growth comes from keeping an open mind and stepping into immersive experiences that stretch us in new ways.
What we think we know is only the tip of the iceberg. The right path is the one that speaks to you — and it may shift with time.
That’s why we keep practicing. That’s why we keep learning.
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