Guest in the SlimFit program: Melina Kappeyne van de Coppello – Rakić

I am a doctor, so I can truly say that programs like these are important for everyone

How or where did you first hear about Terme Šmarješke Toplice, and what convinced you to choose the Slim programme?

I first heard about Terme Šmarješke Toplice through personal recommendations. Friends of mine had already been here and spoke very positively about their experience. What convinced me to choose the Slim programme was that it didn’t feel extreme. The portions were reasonable, the structure made sense, and it felt like something I could realistically follow and integrate into my life.

Could you tell us a little more about yourself and your everyday responsibilities, and the expectations you had when coming here?

I have a very busy professional life with a lot of responsibility. My days are often filled with meetings, decision-making, and stress. When I came here, my expectation wasn’t just to lose weight, but to reset—to step out of my normal rhythm and reconnect with healthier routines, both physically and mentally.

As a medical doctor, how do you assess the programme and its impact on health from a professional perspective?

From a medical point of view, what I value most is that the programme is balanced. It doesn’t focus on one single element but addresses nutrition, movement, stress reduction, and mindfulness together. This holistic approach is essential for long-term health and sustainable results.

Which advantages of the programme would you particularly highlight? What distinguishes it from other health-preventive programmes?

The biggest advantage is that it is a complete lifestyle programme, not just a diet. You are active throughout the day, but at your own level. You are never hungry, there is no pressure, and the focus is on awareness rather than restriction. This makes it very different from many other programmes that are too rigid or short-term.

What impressed you so much that you decided to return for a second time and bring your husband with you?

What impressed me most was the effect it had on my mindset. I felt calmer, more aware, and more in control of my daily choices. That is why I wanted to come back—and this time to share the experience with my husband. I truly believe this is something that is even more powerful when experienced together.

My husband and I are both doctors, and we lead very demanding professional lives with a great deal of responsibility. What impressed me most was how this experience influenced my way of thinking. I became calmer, more focused, and more in control of my decisions. That’s why I wanted to share the experience with my husband as well."

Melina Kappeyne van de Coppello – Rakić

How important is the peaceful natural environment of Terme Šmarješke Toplice for the programme?

The environment is incredibly important. Being surrounded by nature, peace, and silence makes it much easier to disconnect from everyday stress. It supports the entire programme—you slow down automatically, sleep better, and become more present.

How do you feel after this retreat compared to before, and what changes will you make in your everyday life?

I feel lighter—physically and mentally. More focused, calmer, and more mindful. One concrete change I’ve already committed to is leaving work at 6:30 p.m. When I come home, my husband and I sit down first, have a cup of tea, maybe a small snack, and only then start cooking. This helps reduce stress and creates a more mindful approach to eating.

Would you recommend Terme Šmarješke Toplice and the Slim programme to your patients or colleagues, and why?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, I already do. I recently recommended it to a colleague who used to be a top athlete and later struggled with weight gain. I believe this programme works because it is realistic, medically sensible, and adaptable to different people and lifestyles.

Is there anything you would like to emphasise at the end?

This programme gives you tools you can actually use in real life. It’s not about perfection—it’s about awareness, balance, and quality of life. That’s what makes it so effective and sustainable.