OM Yoga Show

The Balens story

Celebrating 75 years of supporting wellbeing professionals

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In 2025, Balens proudly celebrates 75 years of supporting wellbeing professionals, with a special appreciation for the yoga community. This milestone marks not only its longevity, but also a deep-rooted commitment to practitioners who guide others on paths of balance, strength and mindfulness.

Founded in 1950 by Harry and Lily Balen, Balens began in the entertainment industry, insuring high-profile clients like Eric Idle and Van Morrison. But the course of the business shifted when their son, David, experienced a serious illness during his travels in India. His healing journey led him to explore holistic practices, sparking a lifelong passion for wellbeing that would shape the company’s future.

David joined the company in 1978, and not long after, Balens was approached to develop professional liability insurance for non-clinical practitioners. As a former yoga and personal development teacher, David Balen had first-hand insight into the unique needs of yoga instructors. This marked the beginning of Balens’ journey into the complementary and holistic therapy world, where it now provides specialist insurance for over 3,500 different therapies.

Today, Balens supports yoga professionals across the UK and the Netherlands, whether teaching independently or in a yoga studio. Even after joining the wider PIB Group in 2022, Balens has continued to be guided by long standing family involvement, staying true to the core values that

shaped the business from the start — care, integrity and a strong commitment to providing specialist insurance solutions for the wellbeing sector.

To mark this special anniversary year, Balens has launched several celebrations, including the Balens Forest, a sustainable initiative starting with 75 trees planted in the UK. For every new partner or team member, more trees will be planted around the world. It’s a living tribute to the community and the planet we all share.

Yoga teachers have played an important role in the Balens journey, alongside a wide range of specialists across the wellbeing, health, beauty and fitness sectors. From newly-qualified instructors to experienced practitioners, Balens continues to provide specialist cover tailored to your needs.

This anniversary is more than a celebration of the company’s past – it’s a renewed commitment to the future of the wellbeing professions; Balens is proud to champion those who help others thrive. Here’s to 75 years of support, and many more to come.