I quit smoking, lost weight, and started living more consciously

Mr. Peter, we are very happy that you have been visiting Terme Šmarješke Toplice for almost 10 years now, twice a year. Where did you first hear about our programs, and what made you decide to come for the first time?

I heard about it from a friend of mine who had already been coming here for a few years. I had a ski accident some years ago and injured my ankle and my wrist. I had several operations, and afterward I felt I really needed to do something for my body. I thought the fresh air and the program here could help, so I decided to come.

How long was your first stay with us?

The first time I stayed for three weeks. I started with one week of detox. It wasn’t easy for me, but I wanted to get all the toxins from the operations out of my body. I also had additional physiotherapy treatments. After that, I continued with the regular program, including steaming and exercise.

Can you tell us a bit about your life and career? What does your everyday life look like?

I’m a lawyer. I studied law at university, including corporate and notary law, and I work for my family business. My job is quite flexible, which is nice, but it can also be stressful, especially when I have to go to court or handle important matters.

Do you have time for sports and healthy nutrition in your daily life?

Yes, I do. I was raised that way. My mother was very sporty and health-conscious, so healthy food and physical activity were always part of our lifestyle. I eat a lot of vegetables and generally try to eat well. Of course, with daily life, snacks and habits can sneak in, and as you get older—it happens. I’m 59 now.

We heard that you quit smoking while staying with us. Can you tell us more about that?

Yes. I hadn’t smoked for about 20 years. Then my mother, who was already 85, started smoking again, and I began smoking occasionally with her. Unfortunately, she passed away last year at the age of 90. I felt that this was the right moment for me to stop completely.

When I arrived here—it was a Thursday—I smoked my last cigarette and then stopped. It wasn’t difficult at all. Being in the program helped a lot. I didn’t tell anyone I was quitting because I didn’t want comments or pressure. During the day you’re constantly busy, from morning until evening, so you don’t even think about smoking. The environment is completely different from everyday life.

What was it like when you returned home?

When I got home, I knew there was still a pack of cigarettes somewhere. The first thing I did was look for it and give it to my partner and told them to throw it away. I knew that otherwise I might smoke. And since then, I haven’t smoked anymore.

Over the years of visiting us, how has your daily routine changed?

Every time I come here, everything gets reset. In the beginning, you’re still on your phone, checking emails. After two or three days, you don’t care anymore. You’re fully focused on yourself.
When I go home, I’m much more aware of healthy food. I already ate quite healthily before, but after being here, I’m even more conscious. There are no chips or unhealthy snacks anymore.

How did your family or friends react to the changes they noticed?

Before my accident, I was very active and did a lot of sports. After the accident, I couldn’t do anything for a long time and gained a lot of weight. The first time I came here, I was about 20 kilos heavier than I am now. Over the years, my weight has gone up and down, but overall it has improved a lot. This time, because of quitting smoking, it was only about two kilos.

What do you see as the biggest advantage of our program compared to other weight-loss or detox programs?

The biggest advantage is that you’re never hungry. It’s not just about calories—it’s the whole package. Some days I eat 1,600 calories, sometimes less, depending on what I choose. You’re active all day: exercise in the morning, cardio, water activities, aerobics. Everything is balanced, and it works.

If you had to describe the program in one sentence to someone visiting for the first time, what would you say?

Better quality of life. More awareness and a better quality of life—while eating healthy and not feeling hungry. The program is suitable for everyone, at every level. You always feel included, supported, and comfortable.