Terri Silipo’s path to healing didn’t begin on a mat, in a studio or at a fancy wellness retreat. It began in uniform almost 20 years ago.

She enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 1986 and served in both active duty and the Army Reserves until her final release in June 2007. Over two decades of experience gave her a firsthand view of how stress, trauma and injury can live in the body long after combat ends. After navigating her own recovery, she discovered yoga not just as a form of exercise, but as a tool for survival.

Now through her Leesburg-based practice, R & R Yoga with Terri, she helps others reconnect with their bodies, manage anxiety and pain and reclaim a sense of peace, especially her fellow veterans. She uses “R & R” as a tribute to the way rest and relaxation is said in the military.

“It’s not about being bendy or doing handstands,” Terri says. “It’s about reconnecting with yourself in a safe and steady way as so many people don’t feel at home in their bodies. I want to help change that.”

Her work focuses on trauma-informed movement, guided meditation and nervous system regulation. She teaches Yin yoga at Energy & Wellness Collective in Leesburg, offers private sessions on a sliding scale and leads weekly Yoga Nidra classes for veterans through the Veterans Yoga Project. 

“Each week, I’m honored to witness the quiet power of this practice as veterans find a few moments of peace within themselves,” she says. “It’s a gentle but profound path toward healing, and I’m grateful to be a small part of their journey.”

One student, fellow veteran Mike Corso, describes her as “captivating and soothing,” and says her presence brings people to “a place of positive reflection and feeling total control of your body and mind.”

Her classes are inclusive and welcoming, whether students are dealing with PTSD, grief, chronic pain or simply need a quiet place to breathe.

Terri also volunteers at wellness events, offers community classes at the Eustis Memorial Library and Leesburg Humane Society doing yoga with cats. She is also developing grief-informed sessions for hospice patients and their families. 

Terri’s approach emphasizes accessibility and emotional resilience. Her blog and social media offer tips on alignment and regulation, and she regularly posts free resources and reflections.

At the heart of her teaching is a deep belief in service.

Veterans Yoga Project, the national nonprofit she teaches with, is committed to healing visible and invisible wounds through mindful practices like breathwork, movement, meditation and gratitude. 

These tools help veterans self-regulate and reconnect with themselves and their communities. The organization reaches thousands through its online programs and trained instructors across the country.

“Everyone comes in carrying something,” Terri says. “I just want them to leave feeling a little lighter.”

For more information about Terri and her yoga, terrisilipoofferingtree.com/schedule. Instagram @yoga_with_terri

Photos provided