How many of us have whinged at some point that we don't have enough "me" time?

Well, COVID-19 has given what many of us have wanted. Just not the way we intended.

Whether we like it or not, we've now got more time to ourselves.

To stop the spread of the disease, we have to apply social distancing, and to self-isolate. .

Our lives as social animals feel like they are being sealed and boxed away. Our world is shrinking by the day.

All those weekend staples and rituals that bring us satisfaction and joy, from eating out to going to the footy, from attending church to listening to a band play live, have come to a halt for now.

As a result, we have to come up with ways to stop the spread of boredom.

HOW TO COPE: Michael Hagan (pictured above) is maintaining a routine, including walking each morning, checking in on family and friends, practising yoga for mental health, and "keeping up with the news".

While we're meant to be careful about sharing at the moment, we can at least share ideas and recommendations about what's good to watch, listen to, and read.

In tomorrow's Weekender, I have spoken with nine Hunter identities about what they're doing to make the most of having more time at home.

As a valued Herald subscriber, you can read the full story tonight before it goes to print tomorrow morning.

They also reveal their coping strategies for the changes coronavirus has imposed on our lives.

There's even a tip on what to reach for, if we do actually run out of toilet paper. As 2017 Newcastle Citizen of the Year Sister Diana Santleben recounts hearing a woman say, while standing in a queue, "I'm not worried. I have two phone books at home!"

Take care of yourselves, and, no matter what you do, have a wonderful weekend.

Scott.

- Scott Bevan writes for the Newcastle Herald's Weekender