Dee Dee Shepherd LMT

Maybe We Need Language That Belongs to the Profession We Have Become.

For decades, Licensed Massage Therapists have worked to overcome the stigma attached to the word massage.

We defend our profession.
We correct inappropriate assumptions.
We explain that our work is legitimate, skilled, therapeutic work.

Again and again.

I am proud to be a Licensed Massage Therapist. This is not about rejecting massage or the history of our profession.

But language shapes perception.

And maybe the language surrounding our profession has not evolved as quickly as the profession itself.

Because what many of us do goes far beyond what the public traditionally imagines when they hear the word massage.

We work with the human body through skilled, intentional touch. We work with muscular tension, restricted movement, stress, relaxation, breath, body awareness, and the nervous system.

Our work can be therapeutic.
It can be restorative.
It can be deeply human.

So perhaps it is time to imagine a new language for this profession.

SOMISTRY.

Somistry — the professional art and practice of skilled, intentional hands-on care of the human body to support comfort, relaxation, mobility, restoration, and well-being.

And the professional who practices this work?

A SOMIST.

Now imagine a future where our professional license reflects that evolution.

Perhaps that future could take one of two forms:

OPTION ONE: LS

STATE OF FLORIDA
BOARD OF SOMISTRY

LICENSED SOMIST

Dee Dee Shepherd, LS

Licensed to practice the professional art and science of Somistry within the State of Florida.

Profession: Somistry
Credential: Licensed Somist
Professional Designation: LS

Or perhaps we create a bridge between the profession we know today and the profession it could become:

OPTION TWO: LST

STATE OF FLORIDA
BOARD OF SOMISTRY

LICENSED SOMISTRY THERAPIST

Dee Dee Shepherd, LST

Licensed to practice therapeutic Somistry within the State of Florida.

Profession: Somistry
Credential: Licensed Somistry Therapist
Professional Designation: LST

LS or LST—which one feels like the future of our profession?

Licensed Somist (LS) gives the profession an entirely new identity.

Licensed Somistry Therapist (LST) creates a bridge between where the profession is today and where it could be going.

Of course, these are ideas for what a future professional designation could look like. Today, I am legally and proudly a Licensed Massage Therapist.

But professions evolve.

Language evolves.

And sometimes, the way society sees a profession begins with how that profession chooses to define itself.

Maybe changing a word won’t erase stigma overnight.

But words matter.

Words shape perception.
Words create expectations.
Words influence how society understands and values a profession.

Maybe we don’t need to spend the next generation continuing to fight an outdated perception of the word massage.

Maybe we need to change the conversation.

Maybe we need language that belongs to the profession we have become.

Maybe that word is SOMISTRY.

This is only the beginning of a conversation—but every change begins when someone is willing to ask:

What if there is another way?

Could you see yourself saying:

“I practice Somistry.”

“I am a Somist.”

I want to hear from massage professionals, clients, educators, students, and anyone who believes in the value of skilled, professional human touch.

How does the word SOMISTRY make you feel?

And if Somistry resonates with you, don’t let the conversation end with this post.

Say it. Share it. Talk about it.

Comment “SOMISTRY” if you believe it is time to explore a new identity for our profession.

Then tell me:

LS or LST?

Licensed Somist or Licensed Somistry Therapist?

Which one would you be proud to put after your name?

Share this post with another professional, educator, student, or client and ask them:

Could Somistry be the future of professional therapeutic touch?

Every movement starts with an idea.
Every idea needs a language.
And sometimes, change begins with a single word.

Maybe ours starts here.

Dee Dee Shepherd, LMT
Therapeutic & Restorative Somistry
Helping You Carry Less.

Florida Massage License
Establishment License

**✨ You don't have to wait until you're in pain to take care of yourself.**

Most people wait until their body is screaming before they listen.

The stiff neck.
The aching shoulders.
The tension headaches.
The restless sleep.
The constant feeling of carrying the weight of the world.

What if you didn't have to live that way?

My approach to therapeutic and restorative bodywork is about more than relieving pain—it's about helping your nervous system slow down, your muscles let go, and your body remember what it feels like to relax.

Whether you're dealing with chronic tension, stress, or simply need time to reset, I'm here to help you **carry less**.

🌿 Therapeutic & Restorative Bodywork
🌿 Personalized to your body's needs
🌿 A peaceful space to rest, restore, and heal

Your body has been taking care of you.

Maybe it's time to return the favor.

📅 Schedule your appointment today and give yourself permission to exhale.

**Dee Dee Shepherd, LMT, LLC** MA97319 MM42165
*Helping You Carry Less.*

MassageBook Dee Dee Shepherd LMT massage services in Pensacola FL. Restorative Bodywork and Botanical Wellness.

Tomorrow June 30th

Hello, I’m Dee Dee Shepherd

I thought it was time to properly introduce myself and share a little about what I do and, more importantly, what I hope to do for others.

I am a Licensed Massage Therapist and the owner of Dee Dee Shepherd LMT LLC MA 97319 MM 42165, where my focus is on helping people find relief, restoration, and a moment to simply breathe.

I believe healing is not one-size-fits-all. Every body carries a story—stress, injury, grief, long workdays, old habits, or simply the wear and tear of everyday life. My goal is to meet you where you are with compassion and care.

🌿 I offer:
• Therapeutic and Relaxation Massage
• Pain Management and Muscle Recovery
• TMJ and Headache Relief
• Myofascial Release
• Cupping Therapy
• Hot Stone Massage
• Nervous System Relaxation Techniques
• Botanical Wellness and Herbal Tea

My practice is about more than easing aches and pains. It is about creating a peaceful space where you feel heard, cared for, and supported on your wellness journey.

Whether you are carrying stress in your shoulders, recovering from physical strain, navigating chronic discomfort, or simply in need of quiet and rest, I would be honored to help you carry a little less.

Because I truly believe:

“The nervous system never forgets, but with care, it can learn safety again.”

Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. I look forward to continuing this journey and helping others feel more comfortable, more balanced, and more at home in their bodies.

With gratitude,
Dee Dee Shepherd, LMT MA 97319 MM 42165
🌿 Restorative Bodywork & Botanical Wellness
💚 Helping You Carry Less

⸻

“I don’t just want to help people feel better for an hour. I want them to leave knowing they matter, that healing is possible, and that they don’t have to carry everything alone.”