In the heart of a bustling city, just steps from one of the busiest central intersections of downtown Toronto lies a tranquil haven, Shizen Spa

The spa has opened at the Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel, where guests escape and rejuvenate before heading back out to the busy metropolitan streets.

Inspired by the Zen qualities of growth, flow and regeneration, this unique spa blends the latest techniques in acupuncture and holistic philosophy with classic spa treatments.

As a soft opening introductory offer, guests can enjoy or purchase gift certificates with a 15% discount off all treatments, available through February 2006.

Located on the fourth and fifth floors of the Cosmopolitan, Shizen Spa is designed to provide a discreet environment where guests can enjoy all services in one of three 500 sq. ft. private treatment suites, offering unique services such as a Four Hand massage where two therapists work in tandem using the same pressure, rhythm, and movement allowing the mind to “check out” into a meditative state.

The Ayurvedic massage, the most sensory indulgent treatment, uses warm sesame oil and a light rhythmic touch, soothing and restoring the nervous system while being transported to a state of profound inner harmony.

Boosting energy, relieving stress and controlling weight is highlighted at the Life Balancing Centre, located in the spa, where special sessions strengthen the basic functions of the body by balancing natural energy.

This epicentre of relaxation offers Dr. Grandel skin care, an elite German product line. This worldwide leader in skin care relies on carefully selected raw materials and active ingredients taken directly from nature, which then undergo sophisticated processing.

Some of these active ingredients include Allantoin, which promotes regeneration in the skin cell tissue and Avocado, which counteracts skin aging.

The spa will introduce a line of Shizen branded “Gemstone Essence” Amenities exclusive to the Cosmopolitan in the New Year. The line, developed by Sylvia Noble - energy consultant to the stars - includes specialty shampoo, bath gel and foot scrub, that captures the energy generated by the semi- precious stones found in the eight amenities and accessories representing the eight chakras. Also in the New Year, the spa will unveil a 1,500 sq. ft. Solarium designed by Cecconi Simone.

With floor to ceiling windows, Brazilian Walnut (Ipe) flooring and a design with a modern take on an old tradition of Eastern and Japanese influences enhanced by beautiful foliage, this focal point of the hotel and spa is designed to transport guests to a soothing oasis rejuvenating the mind, body and soul, completing the Cosmopolitan experience.

The serene yet invigorating environment radiates throughout this wellness hotel. Guests are greeted by the flowing purified air and at check-in receive a guided meditation CD and personally selected incense courtesy of the Cosmopolitan Toronto.

With only five suites per floor, truly a home away from home, amenities offered include hardwood floors, air purifiers, balconies and windows that open, full kitchens, washer/dryer, 400 thread-count Egyptian cotton linens, 32” LCD flat screen TVs and wireless internet.

This environmentally chic oasis not only creates an at home feel with such excellent amenities but offers an urban sanctuary to centre both mind and body.

For decadent cuisine or to whet the palate, visit Doku 15, an Asian tapas restaurant and martini bar infusing the finest elements of Japanese cuisine with the tantalizing flavors of the exotic east. Opening in January, guests are invited to “choose their poison” out of the 15 specialty saki-tinis while experiencing an uncompromising level of service.

Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel is the sister hotel of Pantages Suites Hotel & Spa also in Toronto. It is owned by Skyline International, a Toronto-based real estate development and investment company, and is operated by Interstate Hotels & Resorts who operate approximately 300 hospitality properties in 41 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, Russia and Portugal.

For more information about Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel visit the website at http://www.cosmotoronto.com.

For more information on the Shizen Spa at the Cosmopolitan Toronto Hotel visit http://www.shizenspa.com
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