An idyllic and peaceful place that can act as the perfect escape while still within the city would be an attractive proposition for sure. Complemented by the finest modern comforts, a choice of healthy dining and a variety of lifestyle options, the boutique lifestyle center Shile provides a complete, holistic experience.

Located next to Mandarin Palace, near Century Park in Pudong, the Shile building was designed by legendary Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. The place has already earned a reputation for its concept of healthy living among those looking for a hideaway.

Shile, meaning "ten joys," was created to combine the Chinese philosophy of maintaining optimal health and a traditional lifestyle, together with modern technology and amenities. Leisure and entertainment choices include art appreciation; spa therapy; nutritious gourmet cuisine; a space to partake in fine wines and teas; and a bookstore for leisurely reading.

A haven of splendid decadence and relaxation nestled among the secluded splendor of Shile, Fei Fei Xiang Spa is an intimate sanctuary with treatment rooms and facilities.

The name "Fei Fei Xiang" is derived from Taiwanese scholar Nan Huaijin's writings, in which he discusses the four levels of Buddhist enlightenment. In Buddhism, it is said that the moment of sudden enlightenment can bring true peace and purity to the heart and soul.

"Fei Fei Xiang strives to help our customers attain a purity of the body and an inspired mind," says spa Director Jimmy Huang. "Taking enlightenment from Buddhism, our spa attends to all the senses of sight, smell, hearing, taste and touch."

Sporting a minimalist vibe, the spa has three double rooms and four single treatment rooms. Senses are awakened immediately upon stepping foot into the candle-lit treatment room.

From Chinese meridian treatments, to a range of modern massage and beauty treatments, it is easy to find whatever you need at this year-round piece of paradise.

The Chinese meridian treatment is based on the Chinese meridian theory of "energy pathways" in the body, handed down through history to balance the "chi" through 12 meridians.

From head to toe, the whole body benefits from the percussive and kneading movements.

Tension, pain and stress disappear to be replaced with a feeling of energy and peace.

After stimulating the body's circulation, the therapist switches from kneading movements to soothing and relaxing Swedish massage techniques.

Fei Fei Xiang uses aromatherapy based on Western fragrance studies to calm and balance the energy in the body through a systematic method of relaxation and restoration. The spa's therapists treat a maximum of three customers per day, to ensure the most thorough and attentive service.

"The spa provides unique, customized therapies, all guided by our philosophy of respect and consideration for the client," Huang says.

The experience begins with a therapist analyzing your physical condition and preference for the treatment.

Customers can choose from a choice of 14 essential oils, such as rose, ginger, bergamot, frankincense, and grapefruit.

For body treatments, one can choose the Chinese meridian treatment combined with aromatherapy massage.

For example, the immune energizing treatment includes an aroma shower, foot bath, meridian treatment and an aroma therapy massage.

It focuses on certain meridian points to form a protective system, while at the same time relieving tension and rebalancing energy.

Skincare treatments combine advanced techniques, expert advice and the Dermalogica skin care system.

For years, dermalogica's formulas have pioneered new standards for product performance.

All products are non-comedogenic and do not contain any occlusive mineral oil or lanolin, irritating artificial colors or fragrance, or any drying SD alcohol or formaldehyde.

Fei Fei Xiang is one of the only two spas in the city providing professional dermalogica facials. Each service is designed after a detailed consultation to ensure maximum benefit, optimum skin health and complete relaxation.

Tel: 021-5033-9113 ext 6000

(Shanghai Daily January 25, 2008)