We would like to extend a warm welcome to you and introduce you to our lovingly renovated family home in the heart of Royal Deeside, Scotland.
Christie’s Croft is run by myself – Jacqui of Organica J and my daughter Josephine, who runs her own gym, `(that she co-owns with James), called Thrive, in Brighton. Our home has become a great family partnership, which we are loving.
Our cosy retreat features 2 bedrooms, sleeping 6 guests.
Lots to See and Do in Royal Deeside
Located in the beautiful Royal Deeside area, there is no shortage of activities and sights nearby. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy scenic walking and hiking trails, while avid salmon fishers will find plenty of prime fishing spots in the river Dee. There are many golf courses nearby and great cycling opportunities aplenty too.
In Highland Games summer season there is much fun and local splendour. From Highland Dancing to Tossing the Caber and other traditional sports to enjoy. You don’t have to wear the kilt or tartan to enjoy them, of course, but there will be plenty tartan to see.
Balmoral Castle is an easy drive away, but there are other Castles even closer to visit, if history is your interest. We have stone circles too around the close by area.
During the winter months, nearby ski resorts offer fantastic ski and snowboarding activities.
We are situated very close (two minute walk) to Finzean Hall, where there are many great special celebrations such as weddings, etc and other events held.
About Christie’s Croft
Our old two story house is now made modern and cozy with a large garden and driveway where you can park up to 3 cars easily. There are two spacious bedrooms (one double and one twin) and a double sofa bed in the living room, which sleeps up to 6 very comfortably.
For your comfort Christie’s Croft has two bathrooms and one WC, our modernised bathrooms include a bath with a shower downstairs and upstairs a large shower cubicle. In the dining room there is a fabulous and cozy wood burning stove for those relaxing and convivial meals spent with friends or family. When enjoying those evenings often you just want to spend a lot of time chatting and laughing at the table, but when you need a more comfortable seat by the stove there is a sofa to chill out on too,
There is a separate modern, well equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar for two. Plus a living room that has relaxed seating, including a sofa and rocking chair. You can socialise with your fellow guests, play games or watch TV. You can log in and stream your own entertainment packages from your phone too.
Escape the Rush and Just Relax
If a stay away from TV, etc is what you would love, we have books and games that you can enjoy reading and playing during your stay. Or just wile away many a quiet moment by the window enjoying the scenery, as some of our guests have said they enjoyed very much!
Enjoy the mountain view and the many forest woodland trails around Finzean and beyond. You can walk on a trail off the road most of the way to the Finzean Farm Shop (approx a mile away) and enjoy shopping for food or gifts there and a delicious bite of breakfast or lunch.
In the finer days, you can enjoy the outside life, we have an outside gas BBQ and under cover seating area where you can sit even if there are light showers and enjoy the morning/afternoon sun and views of the garden. We also have a patio area for sitting out at the back door where there is a table and four chairs.
Pet Friendly
We are dog friendly, and welcome up to two, well behaved dogs, who will really enjoy exploring the local countryside (on a lead of course) as much as you will. Doggies are not allowed on the furniture or upstairs, but there is plenty scope for them to roam on the wooden flooring downstairs or curl up in their beds or by your feet at the wood burning stove.
Christies Croft is within a 15 minute drive of supermarkets, many other cafes, bars, restaurants, activity centres and much more.
Local Produce Welcome Pack
We have a welcome pack for every party of guests staying, so that you can enjoy a cuppa and a snack on your arrival, which folk have fed back is great when arriving late at the house.
We include local produce wherever we can, most times it includes Katy’s Eggs (I was at school with Katy!) and Deeside Shortbread (they were our neighbours for many years and I helped out many years ago at the factory, when it was in Finzean at Christmas time!.
Also Deeside Water . Organica J uses the amazing Deeside Water as an active ingredient in the Aloe Vera Gel, Muscle Rub and Midges and Mozzie Balm as it has so many scientifically proven healing properties. Interestingly many moons ago, Queen Victoria used to bathe in it as she enjoyed its properties.
Eco Credentials
Of course, you can be assured of complementary Organica J organic soaps in every bathroom and free wrapped soap to take home too.
We only use eco cleaning materials and recycled toilet roll and tissues in Christie’s Croft and much of the furniture was our own or lovingly inherited, recycled, reclaimed or restored.
Christie’s Croft New Website
We are very excited to have just launched our own booking website christiescroft.com where you can get a 15% discount for booking direct with us.However through Organica J we are offering an EXCLUSIVE Organica J Subscribers a MASSIVE 20% off our rates. You can find the code in your newsletter, or email Jacqui at Organica J for information. Enjoy a look around and make a great saving on your well earned break away.
For any queries email Jacqui or Josephine on christiescroftfinzean@gmail.com.
There is so much going on in the external/outside world today, it is difficult to disengage with all that is going on. Also our ever increasing to do lists, just seem to get bigger and bigger and we are back to running faster than ever, with work, with family, and all the rest of the pulls on our time and energy.
I know that it feels counter intuitive when everything is requiring your attention to STOP and take time out, but this is the best way to allow a reset and restore of your energy and motivation. I experience this hugely and especially over the last two years, running a business, while renovating the house and building a new venture to run alongside the other. It was easy to feel overwhelmed and quite frankly exhausted. My relationships with my daughter, my partner, my closest friends (or indeed anyone) were not so easy under that strain.
Aromatherapy and meditation, I have found, can be a refuge from that constant pressure within yourself to do more (I am great at pushing myself to the very limits of my energy with work) and the external world shouting as well. I was feeling overwhelmed!
I love to be busy and productive, but realising that by taking time out with regular holiday breaks and supporting myself with aromatherapy and meditation, allows me to achieve more while having that all important ‘me time’ even within the busiest of days. My creativity needs those free times to fully flourish and blossom
I Am So Calm Aromatherapy Blends
I have returned to using the I am So Calm blends as a self massage after shower or bath at the end of the day. This takes me to bed having undergone some self care through touch and inhalation of the calming oils. I enjoy reaching for the oil blend that I intuitively feel is right for that day. It is fun to do that to and allows me to tune in to how I feel in that present moment. Allowing a holistic connection with mind and body.
The meditation blend is great if I also have some body aches and pains from the strenuous day, as well as stilling the mind and readying me for a before bed (or in bed) meditation (however brief – the intention is the important part).
The Love blend I have often used when I have been unable to connect properly to those I love during the days as I have been so busy and/or to soothe and give myself a loving hug with these oils. It is a great blend for de-stressing at the end of a hectic day.
The Joy blend I use the most, if I am honest, to uplift and balance and nurture. I absolutely adore petitgrain and along with the rose geranium, bergamot and rose. It is such a balancing blend to help with anxiety and hormonal balance. Which at my current menopause stage of life I find incredibly helpful.
I tend to use the oil blends, maybe just as being a massage therapist oils are most definitely my thing. However the Pulse Point Roller Balls are incredibly popular and make the blends more accessible to use during the day when you feel overwhelm strike. Keep them in your bag, on your desk, or in your home, so that you can easily reach for them and put a little on your wrists (pulse point) or from of chest to enjoy the gentle, but powerful fragrance to transport you to a calmer place.
Organic Essential Oils
Although I have had to stop offering essential oils to buy through the website, I would like to continue to offer aromatherapy blend ideas here, as well as my ready made blends that you can buy from the website or my lovely outlets that stock them.
If you wish to purchase essential oils to use I recommend using organic essential oils, of course, and I further recommend NHR oils from Brighton, who have fabulous ethics and high quality.
Aromatherapy Blend Recipes to Ease Overwhelm
When you are feeling overwhelmed, here are a couple of essential oil blends that I would recommend in addition to the I am so Calm range.
1 drop of Neroli, 2 drops of frankincense and 2 drops of rose geranium used in an oil burner or diffuser with water or blended in a dessertspoon of vegetable oil (such as organic olive, sunflower or sweet almond).
Alternatively
1 drop of rose Otto, 2 drops of sweet orange, 1 drop of sandalwood used in an oil burner or diffuser with water or blended in a dessertspoon or vegetable oil.
Take a Breath
Using essential oils in the diffuser, the I am So Calm Blends, or the Pulse Point roller balls while meditating is also a really great ritual/practice to enjoy a little longer when you can.
When I become aware that I am working too hard/too long or feeling overwhelmed and stressed, that is when it is time to pause -yes sometimes right in the middle of the busy-ness! and even if it is just to apply the roller ball, close my eyes for a minute and take a few of deep breaths. Return to right here and now out of your mind for a moment. I cannot even write this without doing just that.
Make a promise to yourself to set aside some time in the near future to have specific time out to yourself, and to do what you love. You find find (as I definitely have) that the feeling of overwhelm is so much less, or indeed not there at all when you do.
If you have complex medical issues and/or medications always check with a qualified aromatherapist or your GP before using your own blends.
Peppermint essential oil is one that I often overlook when using oils in therapy for some reason. But I used it without fail every time I travel as I find that inhaling it from a tissue was incredibly helpful to prevent any nausea or anxiety when travelling. I now find that I have used it for so many years (literally decades) for this purpose that I can just close my eyes on take-off when flying and I can smell it!
For skin a tiny amount is all you need as an anti-itch (blended in an oil/cream and peppermint is extremely helpful also in aftersun to soothe skin.
I use peppermint leaf tea as a digestive aid and is my favourite herbal tea. A small amount of Peppermint essential oil 1/2 drops only can be carefully blended with a vegetable oil and massage the stomach/abdomen in a clockwise direction for indigestion and digestive issues.
In our own products, I use peppermint essential oil as an active ingredient in our highly effective Midges & Mozzie Balm. Prevents and also soothes after any bites.
Our top 10 uses of peppermint oil
1. soothing on the digestive system
2. for nausea & travel sickness 3. for mental fatigue 4. with a cold compress for headaches 5. relief from neuralgia & muscle aches 6. for colds & flu 7. sinus issues 8. relief of skin itching/irritation 9. aids clear thinking & concentration
Peppermint Essential oil is steam distilled and is perennial herb native to Europe and was brought to USA later. USA is now a large producer of peppermint essential oil. It is pale yellow or olive coloured. It has a strong minty fragrance. Peppermint has been used since ancient times as a flavour. It is best to use peppermint during the day rather than evening/before bed, as it can be a stimulant.
When using essential oils where you have specific medical problems always contact a qualified aromatherapist or consult with your GP
Do you feel like you need a fresh start or a clear path for 2025 and your life beyond? Do you often wish you could take time out at the start of the year for yourself, just to breathe and re-focus? Now is your chance! Join Andrea Hobbs and Jacqui Christie of OrganicaJ and owner of Christie’s Croft, in a supportive small group setting, for a unique, warm and inspiring residential retreat, where you’ll create your own Vision Board: set your personal intentions, reflect on your heart’s highest hopes, and leave with an inspiring vision for your future.
What’s Included:
Small group environment for personalised attention (max 6 people)
All materials provided to inspire and create your vision board
Expert guidance from your experienced hosts Andrea and Jacqui
Guided meditations with Andrea
A unique simple method to help you focus on your heart’s true desire
Integration and awakening ritual to help you embody your vision
Quality single & shared accommodation at our Scottish rural cozy cottage
Gorgeous log burning stove to enjoy.
A beautiful, quiet small village with access to walks amongst the birch & pine trees
Stunning views of Clachnaben/hills/woods to wake up to (breathtaking sunrises when weather allows)
Nourishing vegan/vegetarian food prepared for you, using organic produce where possible
Communal eating and sharing for a warm, informal experience
Personal guidance on your oracle card messages
Outdoor activities (if the weather is kind!)
Fire ceremony & sharing outside/inside around the log fire
Free ‘How to’ sheet to take away for your own use in 2026!
Free WiFi in all rooms
Free advice on using Organica J products and the opportunity to try out and purchase
All meals are included in the retreat price and provided at our cozy croft
Organic soaps/shampoo bars in all bathrooms
Free parking will be available at the venue or very close by (easy short walking distance)
All bed linen and towels provided
This Retreat is unlike most vision board creation days, as we delve below the surface of our thinking mind to find inspirations from our heart and soul using a unique methodology inspired by Colette Baron-Reid. You will be guided through thoughtful and gentle activities, supported to bring focus to your soul’s true energy, set meaningful intentions, and bring your inner visions to life and into embodiment through uncomplicated ritual, and a visual representation that you will take away with you to keep. Simple collage is used to put together your actual board, so no art or craft skills are needed, just an open heart.
Andrea’s own vision board 2024
What to Expect:
Friday Evening: Arrive to a welcome dinner, followed by a guided meditation to help you land at the retreat, quiet your mind, and gain inspiration for the heart of your vision board….
Saturday: Enjoy a full day of gentle indoor and outdoor activities (weather permitting!) to spark insight and creativity. You’ll be supported by Andrea and Jacqui to listen to your own soul, intuition, and imagination using guided meditations, oracle cards, use a vision board framework inspired by Colette Baron-Reid, and have access to an inspiring range of materials to choose from. Throughout the day you will gradually collect images and words that resonate with your goals, before assembling your board using simple collage, in front of a cozy log fire in the afternoon.
Sunday: We’ll close the weekend with a powerful activation ritual to help bring your vision to life.
No experience of meditation, spiritual practice, or any art or craft skills are required to be able to fully take part in this retreat. The retreat takes an expansive pan-spiritual approach. You will be guided every step of the way by Andrea’s gentle voice and her natural warmth. She brings a depth of experience as an artist, crafter, and Wild Therapist, as well as facilitation of small crafting and slow-stitch groups, an original training qualification in art therapy, and leading Wild Way Retreats, therapeutic residential retreats for women in the U.K.
Jacqui’s knowledge of the area, her warm welcome as venue host, and her vast experience as an aromatherapist will help you feel supported and taken care of during your stay. Both Andrea and Jacqui are trained as Mind Calm Coaches / Calmologists with the Calm Clan Academy led by Sandy Newbigging.
Christie’s Croft, Finzean.
Single and double rooms are available at our cosy venue Christie’s Croft, on a first come basis, in the beautiful, quiet village of Finzean, near Banchory in Aberdeenshire. You will wake up with stunning views of Clachnaben and be able to access the woods near by, or just relax in front of the wood stove.
We have 4 rooms available (maximum capacity is 6 women with 4 people sharing).
2 upstairs flexible rooms offer a more economical sharing option. Why not invite a friend to come with you? Or let us know if you’d be willing to make a new friend by sharing during your stay. Shared accommodation is £75 per person for the whole weekend.
2 downstairs rooms can be booked for single occupancy if this is your preference. Single occupancy is £120 per person for the whole weekend.
Finzean, Autumn skies
Quote from guest at Christie’s Croft 2024 “The attention to detail is evident in their great website…It was very cosy and the wood-burning stove worked well and added to the cosy feel…We loved the small bars of artisan soap in every bathroom…It has been tastefully modernised and is also very functional.”
The house has 2 spacious bathrooms and an extra toilet, so no queues!
All food and meals are included, and will be nourishing vegan and vegetarian dishes. We will eat together as a group, and we will ask you about your dietary requirements at booking so that any allergies can be accommodated.
Feel free to bring your own snacks, although there will be some available.
We do not provide alcohol and we are not licensed. Due to the nature of the retreat, we suggest that alcohol is avoided, but we understand that you may enjoy a glass of something with your meal. Please bring your own.
Smoking is prohibited inside the house. Please only smoke in the designated area outside.
Please do not bring/use illegal drugs at the retreat.
We’re really sorry but we cannot accommodate your dog or other pets at the venue.
.Because the venue and group are small and intimate, this is a WOMEN ONLY event.
This is the perfect opportunity to take a break before Spring. Supported by the waxing moon energy you will align with your deepest desires, listen to your quietest whispers, and connect with like-minded individuals. You will leave feeling refreshed, supported, inspired, and ready to manifest your vision.
Quote from Retreat participant led by Andrea in 2024 “The retreat reminded me that I can listen to my own heart, make big scary choices for myself and place myself back in the centre of my own story, with love.”
The retreat content only is £300 per person and is payable in full at booking (not including accommodation/non-residential option).
The retreat price includes all the guidance and support you will receive, all materials required, plus food and the preparation of your meals. See below for our cancellation policy.
One of 2 bedrooms that can be shared – with wonderful views of Clachnaben. Other rooms available.
HOW TO BOOK
Full payment for the retreat and accommodation is required on booking and details for bank transfer are on the booking form.
Please complete the short booking form that is available to download here and email to the address above.
Cancellation Policy
Both Andrea and Jacqui are small business owners, and due to the nature of this Retreat we cannot accommodate cancellations without a charge or cut-off point as this may mean we have to cancel altogether, disappointing people who have committed their time and money. We are very happy to answer all and any questions prior to taking your booking so that you can be sure it’s right for you. Just contact us and we will be happy to arrange a chat with you by phone, or answer any questions by email.
Cancellations can be made before 31st December but will incur a £150 non-returnable deposit.
Cancellations made after 31st December will be non-refundable.
Living room and log burner for cosy times (all pictures by Mel Shand)Clachnaben at sunrise, Finzean
1. it can help regulate the nervous system, and dispel stress and tension 2. balancing on mood, relaxing and uplifting. 3. pmt and menopause, wonderfully balancing for hormones 4. it is regulating on sebum in the skin 5. can be helpful for eczema & psoriasis 6. for bruising, as it is astringent and can help with minor wounds 7. helpful for fluid retention, as it has a stimulating effect on the lymphatic system. 8. eases frustration and irritability
9 it has deodorant properties
10 can help speed up healing on minor wounds
Where geranium comes from
The geranium that I offer and use in my products is pelargonium graveolens (Latin name) and I prefer to use the rose variety of geranium. That is not a geranium that has rose in it, but rather it is the name given to the best quality (I believe) of geranium. The geranium essential oil is obtained from the leaves of the plant. It is obtained by steam distillation and can vary in colour, but usually green colour.
The plant itself can grow up to 1 metre high and has hairy leaves and is a perennial. Over the years I have fallen in love with the Egyptian rose geranium, I just think it is way above the others in terms of fragrance and quality. Other places of origin include Algeria, Morocco and Bulgaria . Even within one variety there is such a difference in the oil that it productes coming from different countries of the world.
Uses of geranium sinceancient times
Geranium essential oil was used by the Greeks and the Romans. Geranium was brought from South Africa to Europe in the 17th century and was highly prized in the perfume industry. It blends incredibly well with a wide range of oils including, frankincense (one of my favourite combinations), also bergamot, roman chamomile, sweet orange and rose otto. It always creates a great synergy when blended.
If you feel that geranium essential oil would be a useful oil for you, buy it here from Organica J. There is also available a range of other essential oils, with information on their uses, available in the essential oil category on the website. Always use on the body blended with a carrier/vegetable oil.
If you require further information on any oils, feel free to contact us by email or phone.
NB if you have a medical condition/take medications check with your GP and/or a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils.
