Art Runner Spotlight: Ellie Windham
Photos by Filles Garçons Photography.
Learn more about the beauty and inspiration that drives our Runstreet Art Runners in our Art Run Spotlight series. Today's Art Runner Spotlight is on Ellie Windham, who is a blogger focusing on diversity and empowering women and helping to inspire others through her own life transformation.
Ellie is a Queens runner who started coming to our Runstreet track practices to improve her time for the Brooklyn Mile and her enthusiasm and positive energy instantly drew everyone in. Ellie is one of the most positive people I've ever met, which is even more incredible considering her obstacles. Here is Ellie's inspiring running tale of transformation. From her 14-lb. weight loss to tackling trauma and anxiety, Ellie shares her incredible story.
“I still struggle with anxiety but my voice within gets stronger everyday. Running has allowed me to reshape my identity as a trauma survivor and learn how to listen to my strengthened inner voice.”
Name: Ellie Windham
Hometown: Lititz, PA
Currently living : Queens, NYC
Favorite artist: Mary Cassset
Favorite place to run: LIC Waterfront
What brought you to Runstreet?
In July, I had recommitted to my health and wellness. I decided if I want to really change my life, I needed to commit to a routine and make it a way of life.
I Love NY street art by Thrashbird. Photo by Filles Garcons Photography.
What was different this year than other years?
I made a mindful effort to reclaim my life, and running is the best therapy. Runstreet came along at the right time. I joined the Runstreet Art Runs & Track Tuesdays.
I fought through depression and anxiety for years due to trauma. Trauma is an experience that doesn't take overnight to overcome, but years of understanding and reworking your inner voice. Running gives you time to focus on building strength in your inner voice.
My faith, running, parents and friends led me to take steps towards living a balanced life; including new meal planning and monthly group Instagram challenges. This mindset has translated to other parts of my life.
After beginning Runstreet track, I ran the Brooklyn Mile and represented Queens. I had a personal record at the Brooklyn Mile and then again at Sunnyside Mile. I even ran the Queens half Marathon. In my months of training with Runstreet, I met new running friends and explored art in NYC. I also lost 14 pounds, my performance and times have improved! My long-term running goal is to one day run the Boston Marathon.
Every year is a new chapter and it's been a transformative year. I still struggle with anxiety but my voice within gets stronger every day. Running has allowed me to reshape my identity as a trauma survivor and learn how to listen to my strengthened inner voice.
Ellie is a blogger and creator for Walking in Other People's Shoes. In 2018 Ellie is coordinating a health and wellness workshops series for women. Workshop series theme include finding identities and strengthening voices.
